The legacy of Sue Coddington on Canisteo Street
By: Johanna Elattar
On Canisteo Street in Hornell, there’s a place that feels more like a family gathering than a care facility. Sue’s Rest Home, with its welcoming atmosphere and deep-rooted history, has become a sanctuary for those who need it most—a place where compassion isn’t just a mission, but a way of life.
The story of Sue’s Rest Home is as rich and layered as the lives of its residents. The home’s origins date back to a time when it was known as the “Simon’s Home,” a humble boarding house offering a roof and a warm bed to travelers and locals alike. It was later transformed into the “Clancey Home” under the stewardship of Dorothy Clancy, until 1978, when Susan Coddington acquired it and gave it a new name: Sue’s Rest Home. That year, Susan paid a mere $100 to secure the state license that would allow her to turn the home into a haven for those in need.
Today, the care of Sue’s Rest Home is in the capable hands of Peggy Coddington, Susan’s daughter, who inherited not just the business but also her mother’s unwavering dedication to care. Peggy’s daughter, Kelly, is also deeply involved, ensuring that the home remains a place where love and attention are as abundant as the daily home-cooked meals.
With only 13 residents—down from 14 after a recent passing—the home maintains a small, intimate setting that allows for personalized care. This isn’t just another care facility; it’s a place where residents are treated as family members. They are known by name, their histories are remembered, and their needs are met with genuine kindness. Whether it’s managing their medications, providing all meals, or taking them to doctor appointments, the staff at Sue’s Rest Home goes above and beyond to ensure that every resident feels valued and supported.
The home’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, with holidays and birthdays celebrated in style. Imagine a Christmas where every resident receives a gift, or a birthday where the guest of honor gets to choose their favorite cake and meal. It’s these touches that make Sue’s Rest Home feel like a real home, not just a place to stay.
One resident, Donald Woughter, has been a part of this family for an astounding 44 years. His journey at Sue’s Rest Home is a testament to the enduring bonds formed here. And then there’s Donny and Mary, a couple who found love within the walls of this home, proving that it’s never too late for romance.
But life at Sue’s Rest Home isn’t just about comfort and care; it’s about belonging. Many of the residents have come from the mental health system, and while they now see private psychiatrists, they often find something even more crucial here—a sense of community. It’s a place where they’re understood and respected, where they can reconnect with the world in a safe and nurturing environment.
One of the unique aspects of Sue’s Rest Home is its commitment to accessibility. The home accepts SSI as payment, making it possible for residents to stay for around $2,000 a month—or $1,300 for those on SSI. This inclusivity sets Sue’s Rest Home apart from many other facilities, ensuring that financial constraints don’t stand in the way of quality care.
Despite its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Sue’s Rest Home faces challenges. The home is currently short-staffed, and Peggy and Kelly are on the lookout for new employees who share their passion for caregiving. The job requires more than just professional skills; it demands heart, compassion, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others. New staff members must be at least 21 years old, as they’ll be handling medications and providing direct care to the residents. They must, also, pass a background check since they will be working with vulnerable individuals.
A key part of life at Sue’s Rest Home is the resident council, where a president is elected every three months. Monthly meetings bring together residents and staff to discuss everything from complaints to new ideas. It’s a chance for residents to have their voices heard and to contribute to the running of the home.
Every day, residents enjoy three home-cooked meals, with coffee served at 10:00 AM sharp—a tradition that adds to the comforting routine of life here. And there’s no shortage of activities to keep them engaged. Bingo, arts and crafts, and card games are regular events, providing both entertainment and a way to build friendships.
Peggy and Kelly’s mission is as clear as it is compassionate: to care for those whom others might overlook. Many of the residents at Sue’s Rest Home have nowhere else to go, and without Peggy’s open heart, they might be left without a home. The goal is not just to keep the home open, but to continue providing a place where residents feel loved, respected, and part of a family.
The future of Sue’s Rest Home is a bright yet challenging one. Peggy and Kelly hope to continue their mother’s legacy, but they know they need more help to do so. The residents, many of whom are simply seeking a family to belong to, depend on the care and community that Sue’s Rest Home provides.
In the end, Sue’s Rest Home isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to belong, to be part of something bigger, and to find the motivation to live and thrive. For the residents who call it home, Sue’s Rest Home is more than just a rest home—it’s a lifeline.
