Keeping patients in their homes and keeping the lights on.

Hospice patients and their families often have few options when they’ve exhausted their savings, are managing complex family dynamics or precarious employment situations. One constant for the Foundation are requests for rent and mortgage assistance. So far, this year, we’ve helped numerous patients stay in their homes or apartments during the precious final months of Hospice care.  Every scenario is a bit different but always there is a family member trying to make ends meet while being a caregiver. In every situation, a month of rent or mortgage relief allows everyone to catch their breath and be present where they are needed most. It’s always a balance. Sometimes the mortgage or rent is paid but the utility bills have increased due to higher demands on energy to run continuous oxygen 24/7 for the patient. This situation is not uncommon, and we’ve helped keep the lights on and the equipment running for patients who would otherwise be in respiratory distress. There are always financial gaps that need filling. We’ve helped with food aid via gift cards to grocery stores to allow patients and families to have the things they need within arm’s reach. Preparing food for the family in the residence not only solves problems but builds new memories. Building new memories sometimes means final goodbyes. When an elderly mother in a different state needed to visit a hospice patient, her daughter, one final time to say goodbye, we were able to arrange travel for her so they could be together. Coordinating with the airline and Hospice social worker, we were able to make sure the mother got where she needed to go safely. Everything went as planned thanks to a little persistence and the amazing Hospice staff who followed through every step of the way to unite them for a visit.  With the generosity of our donors, we’ve helped with these types of scenarios and more. If 2026 has a theme so far, it’s keeping patients safe and families together.