The Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice and Camp Erin

Jan Nichols, Director of Development and Community Relations for the Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice shared the hospice experience. The hospice offers supportive bereavement programs to help individuals work through their grief. There are over 300 visiting volunteers who provide two visits a week to homes; there is a day program that gives a hot meal and entertainment; and a residential program with 10 beds. 

As well, there is a new program for children and youth dealing with the loss of a loved one. It is Camp Erin Hamilton. Sandra Strauss is the director of the camp. She tugged at our heart strings as she gave examples of some of the 43 children who attended at the host facility, Camp Winona in Bracebridge. Every child there had experienced the loss of a loved one. Children and youth deal with grief differently then adults. Adults immerse themselves for a long period whereas children and youth are puddle jumpers. They jump back and forth from grief to play.

The video tells the story.

The Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice receives 61% of its funding from the Province of Ontario. The remaining funds are raised through sponsorships, support from individuals and service clubs, and special events. One of the events is a draw for a BMW 750i valued at $150 000. Budds BMW, one of the key supporters of the hospice was represented by Gregg Crealock who is also a director of the hospice. Club members purchased a number of tickets at $25 each or five for $100.