By Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
On the occasion of “Giving Tuesday,” the Townsend Smith Foundation (TSF) took a moment to extend heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated volunteers and generous donors who have played a pivotal role in advancing the foundation’s mission to establish and operate a residential hospice in North Halton.
Board Chair Astrid Lakats expressed optimism, stating, “The progress made in 2023 is truly significant.” Lakats highlighted the successful acquisition of land and planning permissions for North Halton’s inaugural hospice residence. Strategically located on Trafalgar Road and 5th Line, the site positions the facility at the geographic heart of North Halton, conveniently nestled between the urban centers of Milton and Georgetown, with easy access to downtown Acton.
Emphasizing TSF’s commitment to prioritizing patient comfort and quality of life, Lakats noted that the hospice will not only focus on reducing pain and suffering but also provide support to the emotional needs of family and friends within a compassionate environment.
Former Halton Hills Mayor Rick Bonnette now retired and a dedicated volunteer in the fundraising campaign, praised the community’s generosity. “We live in a wonderfully generous community,” Bonnette remarked at the Tuesday appreciation event held on November 28, 2023, where nearly a hundred volunteers, donors, and guests celebrated his involvement.
Recognizing the financial demands of health infrastructure projects in Ontario, the TSF has called on the community to contribute to a “community share” as part of the fundraising efforts. Bonnette encouraged donations of all sizes, stating, “While we will need leadership gifts, no donation is too small. All gifts and offers of support are gladly, and gratefully accepted.”
According to the Global Atlas of Palliative Care, over 56.8 million people require palliative care annually, with 31.1 million in need before and 25.7 million near the end of life. TSF, a registered charitable organization, has worked diligently since 2012 to support and educate those interested in hospice care in the last stages of life or bereavement.
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