A retirement home in the province is offering free room and board to a small group of Western University music students – in exchange for their time – and music.

Heather Gingerich, an employee at Oakcrossing Retirement Living – who’s also a Western University music grad – says she got the idea for the program after learning of a similar initiative in Ohio.

Three students will be placed in suites in the home starting in October.

In return, they’ll spend a dozen hours a week with the retirees, when they’ll practice music in common area, perform recitals, and interact with the residents.