Hospice receives grant

Hospice Simcoe is the recipient of a grant of $24,999 from Human Resources and Social Development Canada, to launch a new seniors program.

This program, entitled Seniors Care, empowers and recognizes the capacity of this sector of our population to make meaningful contributions to those living with a life threatening illness or loss.

In this initiative, Hospice Simcoe will be creating a program run by seniors for seniors that will result in the utilization of their life experiences. Support will be given to peers through appropriate training and delivery of key services either in the home or at the new 10-bed residential hospice facility scheduled to open in 2009.

All of these programs will allow for intergenerational interaction, a decrease in isolation, and peer support and networking.

The project provides opportunities for empowerment of seniors. As we age, we live through a great number of situations. Loss is experienced in many forms. The project's purpose is to provide seniors with peer support, opportunities for sharing their wealth of experience, lessen their feelings of isolation, and increase the supports in place for them.

Social isolation is often a threat for seniors, especially for those facing a life-threatening illness. This project targets those at high risk and provides meaningful opportunities for them in a caring, compassionate, understanding environment.

Seniors interested in becoming involved in this program as leaders, volunteers, or participants are invited to call Leanne Bentley, volunteer coordinator at 722-5995, or stop in to Hospice Simcoe. The hospice is located at 80 Bradford Street in Barrie.