Moving day is just around the corner for Nanaimo Community Hospice.
The Expand the Heart of Hospice fundraising campaign reached the 90 per cent mark last week, and the goal is to reach 100 per cent before moving to the new home located at 1080 St. George Cres. in April.
“There has been such a wave of generosity in this community,” said Wendy Pratt, Hospice executive director. “Community awareness has grown tremendously and it’s heartwarming to know that once this campaign is done people who need us will know where to find us.”
Pratt said Hospice continues to reach out to the community.
“We’re already into renovations,” she said. “But some of the project costs are not covered yet.”
Pratt credits people like Hospice’s campaign cabinet who have worked tirelessly to raise funds, and to others like Chris Erb and his team from SupErb Construction, and Rick Earl from Watercress Developments for donating their time and talent to get the project to this stage.
“Many businesses, trades, and service clubs have stepped up to offer goods and services to begin transforming this property into a bright and welcoming space for individuals and families facing end of life issues in our community,” she said.
Staff and volunteers are hard at work planning to expand some of Hospice’s existing services and adding some new programs that will enhance services to children, teens, adults and seniors whether they are at home, in hospital, in care facilities, or accessing programs through Hospice House.
Tranquil outdoor spaces, a therapeutic garden for children and teens and a new palliative day program with enhanced supports for caregivers are all in the planning stages.
Donations can be made online at www.nanaimohospice.com, in person at Hospice House, 1729 Boundary Ave., or by phone at 250-758-8857.