Rainy Lake Medical Center’s (RLMC) vision for a new hospital has been years in the making, shaped by community need, strategic planning and the commitment of those who believe in a healthier future for Borderland.

As the needs of the region have grown, so has the vision for what healthcare can and should look like. What began as a conversation among leaders has evolved into a community-driven mission: to build a new hospital and clinic campus that reflects the future of healthcare in rural northern Minnesota.

This journey has not been without its challenges. It has required patience, persistence and the collective belief that access to high-quality healthcare is not just a necessity, but a right. Through land acquisitions, strategic planning, regulatory hurdles and funding pursuits, RLMC has remained focused on its commitment to delivering a facility that meets the evolving needs of International Falls and the surrounding communities.

What follows is a timeline of key milestones, each showcasing the dedication, collaboration and hope that continue to drive Healthcare on Minnesota’s Edge, or the H.O.M.E. Project, forward.

August 2023

  • Land acquisition: RLMC purchases 52 acres along Rainy River on Highway 11 East. This first significant step is announced during strategic planning sessions, signaling a major investment in the future of healthcare in the region.
  • Growing team: RLMC prepares to welcome three new family practice providers, highlighting the need for expanded space and services.

January 2024

  • New campus announced: RLMC unveils plans to build a new hospital and clinic on the newly acquired land. The decision follows a comprehensive master facility plan shaped by input from trustees, executives, leadership and staff.
  • Vision for the future: The new facility will occupy 20 acres, with the remaining 30 acres reserved for potential housing and commercial development. The goal: expand services, attract new providers and ensure long-term access to quality care. At the time of the announcement, the goal was to break ground in Spring 2025.
  • Funding strategy: While the total cost is still being finalized, RLMC plans to fund the project through a combination of a low-interest USDA loan and internal resources.

April 2024

  • Capital campaign planning begins: To meet USDA funding requirements, RLMC starts preparing for a capital campaign.

May 2024

  • Project naming: RLMC holds a staff contest to name the project. The winning name — Healthcare on Minnesota’s Edge (H.O.M.E.)— is submitted by Darci Pelland.

June 2024

  • Loan setback: RLMC is informed that its USDA loan application is denied due to wetland delineation issues. While the hospital project is not over, the original groundbreaking goal is delayed as other funding options are explored. 

October 2024

  • Appeal filed: After a second denial, RLMC escalates the issue to the USDA’s National Appeals Division. Confident in its case, RLMC remains committed to securing funding and moving the H.O.M.E. Project forward.

December 2024

  • Awaiting decision: RLMC continues navigating the appeals process, advocating for the community’s healthcare future.

January 1, 2025

  • Appeal victory announcement: The USDA does not challenge the judge’s decision to overturn the loan denial — a major milestone. RLMC begins re-engaging with architects and stakeholders to reassess timelines and next steps.

May 2025

  • Campaign momentum builds: Progress continues, though slowly. RLMC learns that additional capital will be needed at closing, potentially requiring a larger-than-anticipated capital campaign.
    • Congressional appropriation requests are submitted.
    • Grant applications begin going out.
    • Small group sessions with community leaders are being planned to cultivate major gifts.
  • Environmental review nears completion: The Army Corps of Engineers’ wetland review is nearly done, paving the way for tree clearing and mitigation work in the fall.

The path to building a new hospital has been anything but linear, but every step, every setback and every milestone has brought the organization closer to bringing the H.O.M.E. Project to life. This vision is more than just a construction project; it’s a symbol of what a healthier tomorrow looks like.

As RLMC works through the ongoing changes, its dedication to securing healthcare access for Borderland and the region remains its priority.

This project belongs to everyone who lives, works and visits the area. Belief and support fuels those at the helm of the effort. Together, we can shape the future of healthcare by spreading the word and staying engaged. With continued support, the H.O.M.E. Project will become a reality to create a lasting legacy.