Hospice Mississauga Launches 2023-2024 Annual Impact Report
Embracing Change and Expanding Care
Mississauga, ON, August 7, 2024 – Hospice Mississauga, the largest community hospice in Ontario, proudly announces the release of its 2023-2024 Annual Impact Report. The report highlights the organization’s significant achievements, transformative changes, and unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care to the Mississauga community.
A Year of Historic Change
“This past year has been historic for Hospice Mississauga,” says Kitrina Fex, Executive Director. “We have a new name and brand, but our mission hasn’t changed: we are still Ontario’s biggest community hospice. It’s one of many changes we’ve made to help us better serve our clients, their families, our partners in health care, and staff.”
The report details Hospice Mississauga’s comprehensive “change readiness assessment” conducted last year. This assessment involved input from staff, volunteers, donors, and the community, and laid the groundwork for significant organizational changes, including a new electronic client record system, enhanced staff training, updated policies, and modernized operations.
Building for the Future
One of the most exciting developments is the campaign to build a 12-bed Hospice Centre, the first of its kind in Mississauga. Scheduled to break ground this fall, this new centre will offer a home-like environment for terminally ill patients, staffed around the clock by healthcare professionals.
“We are thrilled to be moving forward with the construction of our new Hospice Centre,” says Judy Fountain, Board Chair. “This facility represents our commitment to meeting the growing demand for hospice services in our community and ensuring that everyone can receive the compassionate care they deserve.”
Community Support and Financial Growth
The report also celebrates the organization’s financial successes, with operating grants up by 30%, donations increasing by 8%, and fundraising efforts up by an impressive 51%. This financial growth has allowed Hospice Mississauga to invest in its services and prepare for future expansion.
“We couldn’t have achieved this without the incredible support of our community,” Fex says. “Our donors and volunteers are the heart and soul of Hospice Mississauga. Their generosity and dedication enable us to provide extraordinary care and compassion.”
Inspiring Stories and Impact
The 2023-2024 Annual Impact Report is filled with inspiring testimonials from clients and families who have been touched by Hospice Mississauga’s services. These stories highlight the profound impact of hospice care, offering hope, dignity, and support during the most challenging times. Other highlights include:
- 403 clients served, and 2051 visits in hospice counselling
- 337 referrals and 1050 visits for children’s program, Help Us Understand Grief (HUUG)
- 212 calls to Hospice Mississauga’s helpline
- 171 visits to Social Connections programs
- 529 in attendance at Health & Wellness programs
- 229 1:1 Bereavement counselling clients
“Hospice is as much for those who are living through the loss of a loved one as it is for those who are terminally ill,” Fountain says. “Our services provide a bridge between the uncertainty of a terminal diagnosis and the comfort and dignity of expert care.”
Show Your Support
As Hospice Mississauga looks to the future, the organization calls on the community to continue supporting its mission. Whether through donations, volunteering, or raising awareness, every contribution helps.
“We invite everyone to join us in this vital journey,” Fex says. “Together, we can make sure that when people need compassionate support the most, Hospice Mississauga is there to provide it.”
For more information or to read the full 2023-2024 Annual Impact Report, visit Hospice Mississauga’s website.
About Hospice Mississauga:
Hospice Mississauga, formerly known as Heart House Hospice, is Ontario’s largest community hospice, dedicated to transforming[AL1] the end-of-life experience. It plays a critical role in the region’s health care system by providing compassionate, person-centered, community-based hospice care. Each year, more than 1200 individuals who are living with a life-limiting illness and over 2,500 loved ones benefit from our services. Our success is made possible by the generosity of our partners, donors, and the dedication of over 150 volunteers. We believe that anyone, at any age, deserves to have as much life and agency as possible until the end. Our commitment extends beyond traditional palliative care, encompassing services like reiki, therapeutic touch, art therapy, counselling, and legacy activities, all without cost to people and their families.
Media Contact:
Kitrina Fex, Executive Director, Hospice Mississauga
kfex@hospicemississauga.ca
Phone: 905-712-8119 x 222
Cell: 416-824-4071
