Funding announced for additional Hospice beds in Southern Grey-Bruce

The Ontario government is providing up to $1.5 million in one-time capital funding to Saugeen Hospice Incorporated to support the construction of six (6) residential hospice beds under the Hospice Capital Program.

The investment will ensure access to quality, compassionate end-of-life care for people in Southern Bruce & Grey Counties.

“I appreciate the vision and commitment of everyone involved with the Saugeen Hospice. The investment our government is making in support of their efforts is an important next step and demonstrates the significant role hospice has in providing quality care, close to home, for our loved ones,” said Lisa Thompson, MPP for Huron-Bruce. She added, “Saugeen Hospice complements the network of hospices already established in mid-western Ontario that provide valued end of life care.”

“Through this investment, more residents in Southern Grey and Bruce Counties will be able to access the high-quality hospice care they deserve while remaining close to their family and friends,” said Rick Byers, MPP for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound. “And that’s very welcome news. It stands as a testament to the fact that our government is paying attention to the needs of local communities.”

Additional funding will be provided by the Ministry of Health when the build is complete, including the operational funding increase of 45 per cent plus an additional top-up for hospice beds in small facilities that was announced earlier this year to support nursing, personal support, and other services delivered to patients in Ministry-funded residential hospices across the province.

“This is a welcome investment from the provincial government that reflects their commitment to healthcare,” said Kelly Fotheringham, Saugeen Hospice Chair. “And given the local need for palliative services, it’s particularly timely. Residents in Southern Grey Bruce Counties can take comfort in knowing that their beloved family members and friends have access to quality end-of-life care here at home.”

This investment is in addition to Ontario’s $147.4 million investment to expand palliative care services across the province and improve supports for residential hospices. This funding will also strengthen grief and bereavement supports for families and caregivers, advance care planning to help patients and families prepare for future healthcare decisions, and boost the support offered by perinatal palliative care programs.