Seven Rotary clubs raise $92,850 to furnish Foothills Country Hospice expansion

Seven southern Alberta Rotary clubs came together to raise $92,850 for furniture and essential items in the Foothills Country Hospice's newly expanded facility — doubling the patient bed count and signalling what hospice care prioritizes: comfort for families in their final moments with loved ones.

The hospice, located near Okotoks, completed the expansion last year, growing from eight to 16 beds and adding common rooms, two guest suites, and expanded patient care spaces. The ceremony recognizing the contribution happened September 16.

Rotary clubs in Okotoks and High River joined partners in Calgary West, Stampede Park, Centennial, Sarcee, and Heritage Park to cover what provincial funding typically leaves uncovered. "Provincial funding usually only covers day-to-day and construction costs, creating a need to fundraise when seeking items like furniture," said June Diment, board chair of Foothills Country Hospice Society. Alberta Health Services regulations on furniture in patient rooms also increase costs for projects like this.

The funds went toward chairs, tables, and couches — seemingly simple items that carry outsize meaning in a hospice setting. "In hospice care, it's the simple things that are often the most meaningful," Diment said. "A couch is not just a couch when it allows a family member to stay close through the night. A table is not just a table when it becomes a place for photographs, personal treasures and for sharing meals with loved ones."

Rotary Club of Okotoks president Kerri Ann Colby said when the club learned of the hospice's need, the choice to help was immediate. "We hoped to build more than just walls and rooms, we wanted to help create a surrounding environment of comfort, sanctuary and home," Colby said. "We hope these expanded spaces and the furniture within them brings peace and comfort to countless families for years to come."

Diment stressed that operating the facility requires more than medical staff. "You can't operate these rooms just based on medical staff. You have to have the furniture and equipment to be able to support the patients," she said. "We are really grateful to the Rotary clubs for what they've done. They could have chosen anybody to support but they made a proactive decision to support families."