As we celebrate this 30th anniversary year it would appear we are a completely different organization today, than we when we started 30 years ago. However, all the core values and philosophies on which we built and grew this organization remain the same – attracting quality staff and volunteers; having a deep desire to help those affected by a life-limiting illness; offering timely and caring support, free of charge.

The dream of bringing hospice palliative care services to Waterloo Region started with one woman – Lucille Mitchell – who was inspired by a challenge – “If not you, who? If not now, when?” Along with the help of some friends, foundational donors and caring community members, Hospice of Waterloo Region was born.

It started in four rental spaces throughout the Region – a storefront office in Breslau, a house on Spadina Street, houses on Park Street and office space at Freeport Hospital.

2. 66 Spadina Road West – 1997

4. Freeport entrance door – 2006-2010

Over the years, our services grew too. Volunteer Visiting remained our Core program, but we expanded into the community by also offering: a Day Program, a Bereavement Walking Group, a Vigiling Program, a Children’s Program and Transportation Services.

In 2010, we reached a milestone in our history. Thanks to the generosity of the community we were able to purchase our first building on Lawrence Avenue. That move allowed us to expand our programs even further by adding Complementary Therapies, Palliative Care Consultation & Education services and professional Counselling to our repertoire of services.

6. 100 Solstice Way – 2021-current

The secret to our success has always been the people we attract to hospice work – hard working and caring staff members and dedicated and compassionate volunteers.

Without either of them, we could not have accomplished all that we have over the last 30 years.