To the editor:
Nipissing Serenity Hospice is a registered Canadian charity that heavily relies on the generosity of the communities that we serve. On an annual basis, we need to raise approximately $800,000 to meet our budgetary requirements and support end-of-life palliative care in our region. This represents 40% of our overall needs. All of our services are free, which helps alleviate some of the financial burdens that individuals and families are faced with during a very difficult time.
Fundraising happens year-round by a dedicated team of staff, volunteers and supporters, however, efforts are ramped up during the holiday season. This year, the dispute between Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers caused a high level of anxiety due to the disruption. In December, we typically receive a high volume of donations via the mail. This is largely driven by both solicited and unsolicited efforts. Many of our supporters use mail as their primary source of communication.
We are grateful that the mail will begin to flow again, but like so many other charities and small businesses, we also realize that we are now behind where we need to be. Donations to Nipissing Serenity Hospice allow us to continue to support the end-of-life needs of those in our region. Private support covers necessities such as food, utilities, supplies, maintenance, fundraising, promotions and administrative costs, just to name a few. We are so thankful for the generosity of our supporters.
We strive to provide the highest quality, person-centred, hospice palliative care to the residents of the Nipissing and East Parry Sound Districts, in both official languages. Our specialized interdisciplinary team, with the support of volunteers, attends to the physical, psychosocial, spiritual and practical needs of individuals and provides ongoing support for their loved ones. Since opening our doors in January 2020, we are honoured to have supported more than 475 individuals. The need for these services is evident.
Please consider supporting Nipissing Serenity Hospice today. Donations can be made in person or by mail at 799 John Street, North Bay, ON P1B 8T2, by phone at 705-995-3377 or online at www.nipissingserenityhospice.c
Thank you for your consideration and ongoing support and best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season,
Gil Pharand
Executive Director
Nipissing Serenity Hospice
