‘The need for this expansion is truly urgent,’ says co-founder of hospice which has reached just over 90 per cent of its $4.5-million target<\/p>\n
NEWS RELEASE
\nMARIPOSA HOUSE HOSPICE CAPITAL EXPANSION COMMITTEE
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\nMariposa House Hospice (MHH) is within sight of the finish line for its ambitious capital expansion campaign, and a major local benefactor is stepping up to help the organization bridge the final gap.<\/p>\n
The MHH Capital Expansion Committee announced this week that the campaign has reached just over 90 per cent of its $4.5-million target. To help drive the fundraising effort over the top, the JBS Foundation has committed a second $200,000 matching grant, effectively doubling the impact of every dollar donated by the community during this final phase. The JBS Foundation generously kicked off the campaign with a $500,000 matching grant last fall.<\/p>\n
The expansion is designed to meet a growing and urgent need for end-of-life care in Orillia and the surrounding areas. For honorary co-chair Dr. Erika Catford, the project is about more than just construction \u2014 it is about addressing a critical gap in local healthcare.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe need for this expansion is truly urgent,\u201d said Dr. Catford. \u201cIn our most recent fiscal year, Mariposa House Hospice saw 45 ‘pre-service deaths’ \u2014 individuals who passed away while on our waiting list before they could be admitted to our care. These are 45 families who were unable to access the specialized support and comfort they needed during their final days. Expanding our capacity is necessary to ensure that we can be there for everyone who requires our services.\u201d<\/p>\n
The campaign has seen a groundswell of support since its inception, moving steadily toward the $4.5-million goal through a mix of private donations, corporate partnerships, and community-led events.<\/p>\n
Honorary co-chair and former Orillia Mayor Steve Clarke noted that the city\u2019s response has been a testament to its character.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe momentum we are seeing in the community for this campaign is nothing short of incredible,\u201d Clarke said. \u201cOrillians and our neighbours in the surrounding townships have always been generous, but there is a specific energy behind this project. People recognize that hospice care is a vital thread in the fabric of our community, and they are determined to see this expansion through to completion.\u201d<\/p>\n
The JBS Foundation\u2019s involvement has been a cornerstone of the campaign\u2019s success. This latest $200,000 matching grant follows previous support, signaling the foundation\u2019s long-term commitment to the hospice\u2019s mission.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe JBS Foundation believes deeply in Mariposa House Hospice and the profound work that is done within its walls,\u201d said Terry Smith of the JBS Foundation. \u201cWe have seen the difference this organization makes for residents and their loved ones during life\u2019s most difficult moments. We are proud to provide this matching grant to encourage the community to join us in making this expansion a reality.\u201d<\/p>\n
While the expansion will provide the physical space needed to serve more residents, MHH board chair John Mayo emphasized that the \u201cbricks and mortar\u201d are only one part of the equation. He credited the reputation of the hospice to the people working inside it every day.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile we are focused on the growth of our facility, we never lose sight of what makes this place special,\u201d Mayo said. \u201cIt is the dedication, professionalism, and most importantly, the compassion of the entire MHH staff that serves as the foundation of this organization. Their commitment to excellence is the reason Mariposa House has been so warmly embraced by the community. They provide the heart that beats within these walls.\u201d<\/p>\n
With approximately $400,000 left to raise to hit the final $4.5-million mark, the JBS Foundation match means that the community only needs to contribute $200,000 to trigger the full funding.<\/p>\n