The construction project at
Hospice of the EUP in Sault Ste. Marie is still ongoing; winter isn't going to stop the fundraising efforts on the new building, either.
The
new Hospice House is being built by McGahey Construction, which finished the exterior walls and roof in late fall, just in time for the snow to fly, and now are working on the inside.
As for the fundraising, Hospice of the EUP is building the project solely through community donations, as a needed addition to the healthcare landscape in the eastern U.P. When done, the Hospice House will offer five hospice patients a home-style environment for end-of-life care, focusing on safety, caring and dignity.
The building is at the corner of Ryan and West 12th Avenue in Sault Ste. Marie and all total, will cost about $900,000 to build. Hospice of the EUP still is seeking about a half-million dollars to finish up the project.
"We are still $495,000 short of our goal that needs to be raised by July 1 if we are to meet our goal of opening for patients in August," says Tracey Holt, hospice director. "The support for Hospice House has been fantastic. From Christmas carolers to organized fundraisers throughout the tri-county area, our community has been extremely supportive."
Recent supporters have included the Drummond Island Homemakers, who held a January fundraising event; Parker's Ace Hardware, which donated all the paint; Dennis Bennette, who donated all the labor for flooring installation; Randy Maleport, who donated labor for stonework; Paul Perry and Custer Workplace Interiors donated furniture for the office; Ledy Cabinetry provided granite for interior use; Petals on Ashmun provided landscaping plants, and Steve Gregory donated labor for landscaping.
An upcoming event Feb. 25 is the Hospice House Family Fun Day and Ski race at the Sault's Algonquin Ski Trail, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
"We are grateful for everyone's contributions," says Holt. "You are all helping to provide a great service to people in Chippewa, Mackinac and Luce counties."
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Tracey Holt, Hospice of the Eastern Upper Peninsula
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