Hospices are residential palliative facilities dedicated to the care of patients near the end of their lives due to life-limiting illnesses, and their families. The provincial government leaves their establishment up to communities.
The Townsend Smith Foundation is looking to establish a 15,000 sq. ft. hospice with 10 beds in north Halton. Residential hospice care operates at about $500/day compared with compared with $1100-1500 for a hospital bed. Maintaining it will cost an additional $1.6 million/ year, 50% of which is to be covered by community fundraising. “This hike is a wonderful opportunity to bring awareness to the work that Townsend Smith Foundation is striving to accomplish. A hospice is so needed locally, and would bring so much value to our community. Fundraising from this event will go directly to supporting building a hospice,” says John Barrett, Board Chair.
As part of these efforts, we’re holding the second annual Hike for Hospice on Saturday May 25, 2019 at Milton Community Park. The 5 km route will wind its way through the picturesque streets of the Willmott neighbourhood. Events kick-off at 9 a.m. with registration, and family events. Walkers are invited to register online, or in person. The hike begins at 10 a.m.
The Townsend Smith Foundation is a registered charity led by a volunteer board. It was started in 2011 by the families and friends of Milton residents Ron Townsend, and Tessie Smith. For more information on the foundation visit our website: www.townsend-smith.ca
For more information contact:
Kate Holmes
Director of Development
kate@townsend-smith.ca