A Leader in Providing Caring Companionship

Mission Statement

The mission of Hospice Northwest is to assist people living with a life limiting or chronic illness to experience a sense of connection, community and support through companionship.

Vision

Hospice Northwest will be a leader in providing compassionate companionship to individuals and their families as they respond to end of life challenges.

Values

• Providing services based on compassion, respect, dignity and individuality
• Providing quality programs and services
• Ensuring accessibility to the program and its services
• Providing education programs related to death, dying and grief
• Recognizing the individuality of our clients
• Ensuring confidentiality
• Providing ongoing support for our staff and volunteers

History

The word "hospice" dates back to medieval times. It was originally defined as a place of shelter for travelers on a difficult journey. Today we define hospice as a philosophy of care rather than a place, although the original meaning of the word - shelter from a difficult journey - is still appropriate.

Hospice Northwest was incorporated in 1986 as Thunder Bay Community Palliative Care Volunteers. The name Via Vitae, Latin for Life's Way, was adopted in 1990, with a final name change made in 2002 to Hospice Northwest. This not-for-profit charity is governed by a volunteer board of directors and operated by a staff consisting of an Executive Director, a Communications Coordinator/Office Administrator, a Volunteer Coordinator and a Support Group Facilitator.

District programs are administered by coordinators from regional offices located in Geraldton, Longlac, Terrace Bay, Marathon, and Nipigon.

Hospice Northwest is a member of the Northwest End of Life Care Network, the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association, the Hospice Association of Ontario and the Ontario Palliative Care Association.

Hospice Northwest is an accredited community hospice organization through the Hospice Association of Ontario.