Our History

A Heart Lead Committment

Pilgrims Hospice Society was registered under the Societies’ Act in April 1994 with the passionate vision of  founders Dr. Helen Hays, Marion Boyd and Patricia Lynch Ordynec who believed that there was a need for further support for individuals with terminal illness.

In 1996, with funding from donations, foundations, services clubs and special events, two programs were implemented out of space rented in a convent: Adult Grief and Loss and an on site Day Program. These programs ran with a hired registered nurse and a part time admin assistant.  All other activities were undertaken by volunteers.

With funds from the Tegler Trust, the Allard Foundation and Community Facility program (AB Gov’t Lottery Funding), the current building (another convent) in Edmonton’s Crestwood neighbourhood was purchased. The move lead to expansion of programs to includeExpressive Arts for Grieving Children, Teens and Families in 2000 and a Home Visiting Hospice Program in 2003 ( later named Compassionate Companions).  The Coloured Tears Summer Camps for youth began in 2005.

Today the Adult Respite Day Program runs three days weekly and Compassionate Companions program offers regular trainings for volunteers who provide over # visits annually.

Volunteers and community donors have always been the backbone of the Hospice; working with the team of well prepared staff to provide the services to those who seek our assistance.

Providing Family-Centered End of Life Care in Edmonton

Hospice: a world-wide philosophy of end-of-life care that relies heavily on volunteer-driven services from within the community. Hospice works to enhance the lives of those with life-threatening or life-limiting illnesses and supports their families, friends and caregivers.