It has been just 15 months since a passionate team of volunteers and staff broke ground at the Penetanguishene Road site.  Hospice House Simcoe County is the first facility of its kind in this region and is its completion marks the realization of a 21 year dream for those working in palliative care in the community.

Jan Janssen, Executive Director of Hospice Simcoe states, “Thank you to all of our community partners and supporters who have helped to make this dream a reality. At Hospice House, residents and their loved ones will receive compassionate care and support. Our home-like, caring environment will bring hope and comfort, allowing families to focus on spending quality time together. In this residential facility, we will ensure that neither you nor your loved one is alone during this last and important phase of life's journey."

Hospice House is a home-like alternative to the hospital for individuals who are not able to die at home. It offers around the clock nursing, personal and family support in a state-of-the art facility featuring a large family kitchen,  family room, four season atrium, cozy bedrooms each with a Murphy bed allowing family members to stay overnight.

The completion of this beautiful facility was realized with active partnership of the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care and Simcoe Muskoka Local Health Integration Network (LHIN 12) “We are pleased to have our funding agreement now in place with the LHIN and are looking forward to welcoming our first residents in December.  There is much to be done to get ready and our entire team is working with our community partners and volunteers to ensure Simcoe County residents will receive quality care,” says Board Chair, Hospice Simcoe, Sheri Maynard.

“We simply couldn’t wait any longer to open the doors. People are calling and stopping in daily inquiring if we have a place available for their loved ones. We have yet to complete the capital campaign, with only $840,000 left to be raised. The community’s generosity has been outstanding with $2.8 million raised so far. It was a difficult decision, but in the end the Board and staff team, believing in the generous spirit of the people in this community decided to take the leap of faith and decided to open our doors in December,” said Maynard.

There is no doubt this house has been built by neighbours for neighbours. It is evident in the outstanding workmanship and upgrades that have made Hospice House a Home.

Hospice Simcoe is a charitable, volunteer-based organization, providing client-centred support for those living with life threatening illness or grieving the loss of a loved one. Hospice Simcoe serves residents in the City of Barrie, Oro-Medonte, Springwater, Essa, Innisfil and South Simcoe.

For more information, call 705-722-5995.