The Gisèle Faubert Foundation launched its major fundraising campaign on August 15 for the construction of a palliative care home in Mercier.
“The Montérégie-Ouest region already has a shortage of palliative care beds,” said Jean-François Primeau, who chairs the board of directors of the Gisèle Faubert Foundation. “According to forecasts, by 2036, one in four Quebecers will be aged 65 and over. When you consider that fifty percent of people at the end of their life require palliative care, the Foundation’s project makes perfect sense,” explained Primeau, during a press conference to launch the campaign.
The goal for the fundraising campaign is to raise $6.5 million. The total cost to build the palliative care home, which will accommodate up to eight patients, is estimated at $9 million. To date, the foundation has raised $2.97 million, or just under one third of the necessary funds.
Mercier mayor Lise Michaud has signed on a president of the campaign, and she has recruited a network of dedicated volunteers to support this goal. The funds will be used to cover construction costs, the purchase of equipment and furniture, and expenses incurred during the first year of operation.
“Needs will continue to grow, and this project must be supported by the entire community as it becomes a reality,” said Michaud, who explained that palliative care homes offer their services to patients and families free of charge.
The future beds at the care centre will be accessible to the entire population of the Montérégie-Ouest, including residents of the municipalities in the MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent, the MRC des Jardins-de-Napierville, and the MRC de Beauharnois-Salaberry.
According to the foundation’s website, construction is scheduled to begin before the end of the year. Several fundraising initiatives in support of the new home will take place over the coming months.
More information on the Gisèle Faubert Foundation, the palliative care home, and upcoming events can be found online at fondationgiselefaubert.org. (SR)