The Meaning of Hospice

Today, we use the word “hospice” to refer not only to an organization of people devoted to caring for the dying, but also to the philosophy:

• Of care that values quality of life until death

• That not only intends physical care but also emotional and spiritual support

• That puts the client at the centre and in control of his or her own life and care

Many years ago, a hospice provided shelter to travelers on a dificult journey. Those experiencing a terminal illness face the most difficult journey of all. Hospice Vaughan is there to help those on their journey.

The History of Hospice Vaughan

Hospice Vaughanwas established in 1995 to assist those individuals and their families during the last stage of life. Hospice Vaughan includes involvement of the family and friends in care...care which takes into account all the needs of the clients physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

No journey is more difficult than the path followed by those facing a life-threatening illness. Hospice Vaughan is committed to sharing this journey and offering supportive care to the individual and family.

We do this by offering an interdisciplinary team of professionally trained staff and volunteers dedicated to:

• Providing quality care in the home

• Counseling individuals and their families

• Continuity of care collaboration with other service provider

• Ensuring bereaved family and friends are supported.

Services are provided to families in the Vaughan community. Referrals can be made by family, friends, health care professionals, clergy or an individual struggling with illness simply by calling the hospice office at 905-850-6266.

There are no fees for services provided by Hospice Vaughan.

Our Objectives

• To provide individual counselling to deal with the challenges of the loss

• To provide sharing experiences

• To provide support to adults, children and teens through support groups

• To help grieving individuals understand the physical, emotional and mental pain resulting from loss

• To promote general wellness throughout the group

• To develop skills that will help individuals cope with grief and loss

• To learn to recognize differences between healthy and unhealthy grieving

• To help individuals adjust to an environment that encompasses their loss

• To help individuals find hope and meaning in life again

How Hospice Vaughan Is Funded

• People in our community

• Memorial donations and bequests

• Special events

• Corporate donations

• Charitable foundations

*Receipts are issued for income tax purposes

Future initiatives

• Children’s Grief & Bereavement Support Group

• Day Respite Programs

• Free Standing Hospice

• Enhance Existing Programs

Communities Served City of Vaughan, Northwest of Metro Toronto and North of Steeles Avenue West. Highway 50 East to Bathurst Street.

Includes:

• Woodbridge

• Kleinburg

• Maple

• Concord (partial

Map