Let's not lose Hospice!

The following was sent by a friend who has been doing some volunteer work with Hospice. She asked me if I’d post it here.

As noted on Eric’s blog, Hospice isn’t the only valuable SoHum organization that’s been hit hard by the depression.

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Heart of the Redwoods Community Hospice has helped thousands of Southern Humboldt, Northern Mendocino and Western Trinity county residents in their time of need. Now Hospice asks you for urgently needed support.

In this economic downturn, Hospice is running a substantial deficit for the first time. Their caseload is growing, and costs have increased. Hospice gets no funding from insurance or Medicare, yet their services are free. They help those who are ill or dying stay in their homes by providing 24/7 emergency assistance; advice and instruction on caregiving, comfort care, and pain relief; medical advocacy; and counseling and support for caregivers and the bereaved. Hospice offers services for those pursuing curative treatment as well as end-of-life care.

Heart of the Redwoods Community Hospice is the only hospice in this large rural area since St. Joseph’s cut its rural home health service several years ago. Hospice manages on a very frugal budget through a team of trained volunteers. There is no fat to cut; without immediate and generous financial support, this community could lose its hospice services.

You can help Hospice care for the community. Look for Hospice’s annual appeal letter in your mail. If you aren’t on Hospice’s mailing list, you can send a donation to Heart of the Redwoods Community Hospice, 464 Maple Lane, Garberville, CA 95542. You can make a donation through Umpqua Bank or the Community Credit Union. Your donation goes directly to patient services.

You can also support Hospice by buying your spring starts at Redway Feed’s annual Garden Party, this Saturday, April 18 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Proceeds from select flower and veggie starts sales will be donated to Hospice.

Hospice is neighbors helping neighbors to face illness and death with grace and strength. Please help Hospice continue its vital work.

For more information call Jennifer Waters at Hospice, 923-7276.