For what purpose did Franklin buy a resort in Bullochville, Georgia in the novel, White Houses?

After contracting polio, Franklin bought a resort in Bullochville, Georgia called Warm Springs, which Hick refers to as the "Little White House" (83). He believed that bathing in the waters there would ease the symptoms of his illness, and so did many others, as Franklin invited other polio victims to visit and be treated there as well. Hick notes Franklin's tireless efforts on the part of those similarly afflicted, "He was every patient's father, and their friend, and their tireless fundraiser" (84).