NH Community Hospice was selected as the successful recipient of a generous contribution amounting to $18,500. The donation was presented by Maureen Russell and sponsored by Kathy Caskenette. Alongside the hospice, the Norfolk Community Foundation, represented by member Natalie McConnell, was also chosen to present their initiatives.
The Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice (NHCH) operates out of two offices: one situated in Port Dover and another in Jarvis. While the organization is diligently planning and fundraising for a future hospice residence in Jarvis—on land donated by the Williamson family—there remains an urgent and immediate need for bereavement support and programs targeting individuals of all ages who are living with life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families. Over the past year alone, nearly 500 people have accessed these essential services.
NHCH provides a range of supports and programs that are available either in individual family homes or at central community locations. These offerings encompass one-on-one and group support sessions, wellness sessions, educational seminars, access to complementary therapy workshops, and children’s day camps, among others.
The specific donation of $18,500 will be directed towards the creation and distribution of “Comfort Bags” for children attending bereavement programs. These children have often experienced the profound loss of a parent or sibling. The Comfort Bags contain materials such as books, journals, teddy bears, mindfulness activities, and additional items thoughtfully selected by counsellors to support children as they navigate their grief. Looking ahead, NHCH aims to expand this initiative to include Comfort Bags for adults grieving the loss of a spouse or child.
Community-Funded Programs
All NHCH programs rely entirely on donated funds, and this contribution will remain within Norfolk County, directly supporting local individuals and families in need.
Pictured l to r: Maureen Russell, Grief & Bereavement Provider and Founding Member of HNCH, Sue Goble, Michelle Grummett, Beth Redden, 100 Women Who Care Norfolk, Beth Ellis, NHCH Board Member, Kathy Caskenette, 100 Women Who Care Norfolk