A total of $752,000 has been secured toward the $1.5 million cost of developing The Hospice Suites at CHCC, a project that will expand hospice services in North Whatcom County. Construction is scheduled to begin July 13.
The project will transform underused space within the existing Christian Health Care Center building into a dedicated hospice environment featuring nine private suites, a family gathering space, reflection room, private bathing suite and sanctuary garden.
The Christian Health Care Center Foundation has committed $400,000 toward the goal. Individuals and organizations have also stepped up to contribute, and fundraising efforts through the Called to Care campaign continue throughout the community.
“We are encouraged by the generosity we’ve seen from across our community,” said Gurpreet Dhillon, development director for the Christian Health Care Center Foundation. “Every contribution brings The Hospice Suites at CHCC closer to reality and helps bring end-of-life care closer to home.”
Campaign kickoff took place May 28
Community members gathered May 28 for a campaign kickoff event that introduced the vision for The Hospice Suites at CHCC and the need for hospice services close to home. Project supporters and community leaders are scheduled to gather again in early July for a construction kickoff event marking the start of renovation work.
“We are grateful for the generosity and encouragement we’ve received from individuals, families, businesses, churches and community partners,” said Tonja Myers, executive director administrator of Christian Health Care Center. “Their support is helping create a place where people can receive care during this life transition.”
Inpatient hospice care closer to home
Families facing end-of-life care have limited options when hospice care at home is not possible. For North Whatcom County residents, that can mean traveling to Bellingham for inpatient hospice services. The Hospice Suites at CHCC will provide faith-based care closer to home.
Through a partnership between Christian Health Care Center and PeaceHealth Whatcom Hospice, families will have a place to be together during life’s final moments in a setting designed for comfort, dignity and family presence.
Built by the community, for the community
Seventy years ago, community members came together to establish Christian Health Care Center to serve the health care needs of North Whatcom County. Today, CHCC remains an essential community resource and a place families turn to for long-term care, rehabilitation, hospice support and other services.
Community members who would like to support The Hospice Suites at CHCC can learn more or donate at chcclynden.org/called-to-care/.
