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 administrative assistant. All other activities were undertaken by volunteers.

With funds from the Tegler Trust, the Allard Foundation and the Community Facility Program (Alberta Government Lottery Funding), the current building (another convent) in Edmonton’s Crestwood neighbourhood was purchased. The move led to the expansion of our programs to include: Expressive 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.

While Pilgrims Hospice Society’s programs and services have been a pillar of compassion in greater Edmonton for three decades, the strategic vision has always included residential hospice care for those at the end of life who can no longer stay at home but do not need to be in a hospital or long-term care facility.

At our Gala in 2018, local business leader, Harold A. Roozen, announced a $3 million commitment to Pilgrims Hospice Society — the cornerstone gift of our Home for Hospice Capital Campaign.

In 2019, construction of the Roozen Family Hospice Centre began and by the end of 2020, both construction and the Home for Hospice Capital Campaign were complete. We opened the doors to our first hospice resident in the spring of 2021.

Volunteers and community donors have always been the backbone of our hospice, working with a team of expert staff to provide the services to those who seek our assistance.