A large donation of nearly $250,000 will help St. Joseph's Hospice make much-needed renovations.
The Lockwood Foundation is giving the Sarnia hospice $247,000 for capital project upgrades.
Hospice Fund Development Manager Maria Muscedere said without these funds, these upgrades might not have been possible.
"This gift will have a tremendous impact on our ability to continue to serve the Sarnia Lambton community. It is an honour to work in partnership with the Lockwood Foundation," said Muscedere. "The foundation has supported the hospice since 2008 and was very supportive in our time of need during the COVID-19 pandemic."
In January of 2021, the hospice received $25,000 from the Lockwood Foundation.
Hospice Executive Director Larry Lafranier said this major gift will go a long way to help. He said the social services organization must raise approximately $167,000 each month to keep their doors open.
"Which is the prioritized need in order to continue serving our community," said Lafranier. "[Lockwood's] support will allow us to continue to provide a home-like atmosphere, where we can continue to provide excellent care for our residents and their family members."
In a media release, the hospice said funding to cover capital costs has been on hold, as each year raising over half of their $2-million operating budget has been a priority.
Each year, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care provides 43 per cent of the hospice's funding to cover the cost of our nursing and PSW staff, meaning the remaining 57 per cent must be fundraised.
An anonymous spokesperson for Lockwood said the hospice provides the Sarnia-Lambton area with much needed end-of-life services.
"And as such, this non-profit must be supported and sustained. We at Lockwood are honoured and delighted to continue our support of this community valued organization.”
The hospice's 10-bed residence, located at 475 Christina Street North, opened its doors in 2009.