Illness Support
From the moment of diagnosis of a life-limiting illness, the impact on an individual and their family can be overwhelming, confusing and unpredictable. St. Joseph's Hospice provides services to support and embrace the whole person and their family and caregivers throughout this journey.
In collaboration with a professional staff, each individual identifies their personalized care plan which may include education, resource connection, advocacy, emotional support or participation in any of our services offered, including:
In-Home Support
Volunteer Visiting: Our volunteers are compassionate listeners who enjoy giving of their time through companionship and support. It is not unusual for a visitor to join in on a beloved hobby, participate in card games or companioning on a walk while engaging in friendly conversation.
While the volunteer is with you, family caregivers may take some time for themselves.
Peer Group Support
Men's Coffee Group: An essential way for men to connect with others and receive support, understanding and resources in dealing with the challenges they face after a life-limiting illness diagnosis. With the opportunity to share and connect with other men, participants build a sense of camaraderie and find comfort and support in a relaxed non-judgmental atmosphere. Men's Group is offered bi-weekly.
Wellness Program
Join us as we focus on making connections through mind, body and soul through weekly activities such as yoga, art, music and crafts, etc. Activities are designed to reduce isolation, encourage healing, promote expression, improve mental health and physical well-being while providing a safe space to hold thoughts and feelings in a welcoming environment.
Social Club: Reduce isolation, connect with others while exploring a variety of activities. Refreshments and conversation are offered while participation in activities is optional. Social Club is offered weekly.
Caregiver Support
We recognize the mental, physical and emotional stress that individuals who provide care for their loved-one experience and we prioritize the importance of a caregiver's own health and well-being. We are committed to finding new ways to offer support while ensuring each person has an opportunity to feel validated, appreciated and valued. Services available for caregivers include:
In-Home Support
Volunteer Phone Support: We understand the challenges that caregivers may experience with attending programs outside of the home. Our Phone Support Program matches caregivers with a volunteer who can provide regular check-ins and conversation.
Peer Group Support
Caregiver Support Group: An opportunity to connect with others who understand the varied challenges, demands and rewards of caregiving in a relaxed and non-judgmental environment. Groups are offered bi-weekly.
Wellness Program
Social Club: Reduce isolation, connect with others while exploring a variety of activities. Refreshments and conversation are offered while participation in activities is optional. Social Club is offered weekly.
Walking Group: An opportunity to meet and walk with others who are grieving, bereaved or caregiving. Explore the benefits of connecting with nature and others who are journeying in their loss one step at a time with a leisurely scenic 2.5km route in Canatara Park guided by St. Joseph's Hospice staff or volunteers.
How to Register:
Please contact the Supportive Services team by emailing supportiveservices@sjhospice.ca or calling 519-337-0537 to learn more about these programs and to register.
All programs are provided at no cost.
Click here to view our Groups & Programs Calendar
Click here for Grief & Bereavement Resources