Government Supports Cape Breton Hospice

Government is supporting a new 10-bed hospice in Cape Breton with annual operating funding, Premier Stephen McNeil announced today, Aug. 2.

Government will provide about $1.75 million in annual operating costs.

“We are committed to providing appropriate end-of-life care for Nova Scotians, whether that is at home, in hospital or in a hospice,” said Premier McNeil. "This new hospice will be a point of pride for the people of industrial Cape Breton and we are pleased to be a part of it."

The Hospice Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton County fund-raising campaign for the construction of the hospice is $2 million away from its $5.2 million goal. Membertou is providing the site for the hospice through a low-cost, long-term lease.

The planned hospice residence will provide comfortable rooms in a home-like environment for people in the final stages of life who do not require the acute medical care provided in hospital. The 14,000 square foot residence will also support family needs including inviting space for music and other therapies, volunteer support, clinician offices, space for family cultural events, shared dining space, a serenity garden and operational and administrative locations.

“The society has long believed in the incredible impact a hospice residence can and will have for the Cape Breton community,” said Patricia Jackson, co-chair of the Hospice Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton County. “Clearly we are delighted with today’s announcement and will work with all to open the doors and welcome patients and families by early 2021.”

Once built, it will be the third hospice in Nova Scotia. One in Kentville is under construction and a Halifax hospice opened in April.

For more information on the planned hospice, visit the Hospice Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton website at https://hospicecapebreton.org/ .