By rdnewsNOW staff

Red Deer Hospice announces $5.2M expansion plan

Jun 8, 2018 | 1:54 PM

The Red Deer Hospice Society has announced plans to add an additional 15,000 square feet to its facility, including six new private care rooms.

“Our Hospice has reached its capacity,” says Val Hilario, Executive Director. “We are faced with either expanding or having to turn away those in need of our care.”

The existing 10,000 square foot facility is currently home to 10 resident care rooms, which officials say are occupied more than 90 per cent of the time. 

Plans are for the additional resident rooms to be created on the main floor, along with enhanced family areas (living rooms, coffee bar, quiet area) and multipurpose rooms that will allow for educational opportunities, respite care and day programming.

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The creation of a second floor at the facility will house offices, meeting rooms and an additional multipurpose area.  Fully developing the basement will provide a dedicated staff area and ample storage for medical, financial and event materials. 

The goal for completion of the project is Fall 2019.

“We have been looking at the potential of expansion for years, and thanks to a recent change to our funding agreement with AHS, that’s now possible” Hilario adds.

Alberta Health Services has committed to increase annual operational funding from ro to 70 per cent once the eleventh bed is open.

“Patients and families are at the heart of everything we do,” says Tracey Black, Alberta Health Services Area Director, Red Deer Home Care and Transition Programs. “The Hospice has the same focus and plays an important role in helping residents enjoy the highest quality of life during their end-of-life journey. We’re proud to be able to partner with the Red Deer Hospice on this exciting expansion, and have additional spaces to support palliative care. ”

The expansion project is expected to cost $5.2 million dollars. The Hospice Society is asking the community for help in the form of one-time contributions, pledges or donations of securities. Donations can be made online at or in person at Red Deer Hospice.

Kiwanis Red Deer and its Twilight Homes Foundation announced a commitment on Friday of $300,000 over the next three years. That organization contributed $250,000 during the Hospice’s original campaign.

Red Deer Hospice has helped provide palliative end-of-life care for more than 1,200 residents and their families since opening its doors in 2005.