The NewWest Hospice Society presents to council their plan to establish a dedicated hospice in New Westminster, ensuring that residents have access to compassionate end-of-life care close to home.

Deni Loubert – Local Journalism Initiative

Hospice care has a long history in Canada, rooted in the belief that every person deserves dignity, comfort, and support in their final days. The modern hospice movement began in the 1970s, with palliative care programs expanding nationwide to provide compassionate, community-based services for individuals facing terminal illnesses.
Today, hospice care is widely recognized as an essential part of the healthcare system, helping patients and families navigate the end-of-life journey with respect and care. However, despite this growing awareness, New Westminster remains one of the few municipalities in the region without a dedicated hospice facility.

On February 10th, the NewWest Hospice Society presented to New Westminster City Council, advocating for greater support in their ongoing mission to establish a hospice in the city. The society, a volunteer-driven organization, has been working tirelessly to create a community-based hospice residence that would provide individuals with quality palliative care close to home. Their presentation highlighted the urgent need for such a facility, noting that many residents must currently seek end-of-life care outside the city. The society called on council members to support their vision and help integrate hospice services into the broader healthcare framework of New Westminster.
Following the presentation, society members Wendy Johnson and Brock Anderson spoke further about their efforts and the importance of normalizing conversations around death and dying.

They emphasized that hospice care is not just about medical support—it’s about creating a compassionate space where individuals and families feel safe, supported, and heard. Wendy Johnson stressed the significance of these discussions, stating, “Talking about death and dying is not easy, but having a safe place to do so is essential. New Westminster deserves a hospice that reflects the care and compassion of our community.”

Those who are interested in learning more can visit the NewWest Hospice Society website at www.newwesthospice.ca.