Abbotsford Hospice Society (AHS), provider of palliative and bereavement support services, has once more received support from the community to continue its work.
IODE Dewdney Chapter presented a donation of nearly $8,000 to AHS in mid-April.
IODE Canada is a national women’s charitable organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals through education support, community service and citizenship programs.
Margaret Strocel, IODE Dewdney Chapter, was joined in presenting a cheque by her executive members Vicky Gall, membership chair; Carol Gosse, treasurer; Elaine Sinton, secretary; and Bev Montague, communications officer.
AHS board chair David Turchen thanked the organization for their donation.
“We acknowledge the generous support from IODE as we work towards the completion of the first adult hospice residence in Abbotsford. Since 1986, we have served this community by providing bereavement and palliative support. The need is great and this helps us along the way," he said.
AHS provides emotional and social support for people who are dying, as well as children, teens and adults grieving the death of a loved one.
Services provided over the years have included one-to-one and family counselling, support groups, crisis debriefing, expressive therapies, music and play therapy for grieving children and support for teens.
Additionally, AHS offers public education, outreach, a comprehensive lending library and community referrals.
Construction is well underway for Holmberg House, which will be the first adult hospice residence in Abbotsford, with 10 patient suites and two family suites.
The facility is part of the Campus of Care on Marshall Road next to Abbotsford Regional Hospital.
For more information, visit abbotsfordhospice.org.