Tories Provide Funding For Hospice Care In Northern Ontario

Media Release

********************

The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and Minister for FedNor, today announced a Government of Canada contribution, through FedNor, of up to $1.5 million in support of the establishment of hospices in Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury and Thunder Bay.

“Terminally ill patients and their families deserve the very best in palliative care and emotional support during this very difficult time,” stated Minister Clement. “This government recognizes that hospices are a critical element of an integrated health care picture, and that quality of life is just as important toward the end, as it is earlier on.”
The hospices will be designed to maximize the feel of a home setting by balancing privacy with common areas and accommodations for visiting family members. Each will be a 10-bed facility, employing up to 15 health care professionals including registered nurses, registered practical nurses and administrative staff.

The strategic location of the three facilities will ensure that all residents of Northern Ontario can take advantage of the services they provide. They will have a positive impact on the delivery of health care regionally, providing compassionate palliative care services, offering alternatives to hospital and long-term care facility placement, and reducing health care costs.

“On behalf of my colleagues at Maison “La Paix” House in Sudbury and Kinloch Manor Hospice in Thunder Bay, I wish to thank Minister Clement and FedNor for their financial support, which will allow us to proceed with our goal of establishing much-needed hospice facilities in Northern Ontario,” said Jim Mazi, President of the Algoma Residential Community Hospice Board.

By supporting local community-based organizations through its programs and services, FedNor is opening doors and building futures for a prosperous Northern Ontario.

********************