Saint John hospice to receive increased funding for operational costs

A sign outside of Bobby's Hospice in Saint John, N.B., is pictured in this file photo.

A New Brunswick hospice that’s been providing palliative care and grief support services for more than four decades in Saint John is receiving more funding for operational costs.

The province’s Department of Health is giving $5.7 million over five years to Hospice Greater Saint John, which operates Bobby’s Hospice, to support clinical care costs.

Bobby’s Hospice opened in 2010 as the first 10-bed residential hospice for in-patient care in Atlantic Canada. The province says it provides 24-hour, professional end-of-life care, “focusing on comfort and celebrating life in a dignified and respectful way.”

“Receiving financial support from the provincial government has been a key pillar to our ongoing success,” said Brad Adams, CEO of Hospice Greater Saint John.

“Entering a new service agreement, with increased funding, will enable our organization to invest more in rewarding and retaining our incredible team, without jeopardizing the quality of care we provide. Having earned the trust of the province to deliver on our promise to provide quality residential palliative care to Greater Saint John and surrounding communities is something we take great pride in.”

The funding increase represents more than 40 per cent from the previous five-year service agreement, according to the provincial government.

“Our government recognizes how vital it is that New Brunswickers have access to the quality palliative care and end-of-life services that they deserve,” said David Hickey, minister responsible for the New Brunswick Housing Corporation.

“Hospice organizations like this one have a tremendous impact on our communities, as well as on our health-care system. We are pleased to continue our support of this important service.”

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