Merrimack Valley Hospice announced today that Merrimack Valley Hospice House expansion project is well underway and that two co-chairs have been selected to lead the fundraising campaign. Scott Cote, President of Pentucket Bank and Mary Jane Werner, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees have agreed to lead the two million dollar fundraising campaign to expand Merrimack Valley Hospice House by seven additional suites.
“We are very pleased to have such dynamic leadership for this critical expansion project” said John G. Albert, MBA, FACHE, President and CEO of Merrimack Valley Hospice. “Their commitment to this project, and understanding of the value this expansion brings to patients and families, will assure its success.”
Since Merrimack Valley Hospice House opened in June 2009 it has been operating at or near capacity, serving more than 1,500 patients. Licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health for a 21 suite facility, the Hospice House was designed for a two-phase construction: the initial 14 suites, then, a final phase of seven suites at a time when occupancy and demand for services exceeded capacity. No one anticipated that time would come so quickly.
The addition of the new wing will allow for 21 private patient suites in total, of which two may accommodate pediatric patients. All suites feature skylights, a private bathroom, seating and space for loved ones to visit at any time of day or night. The wing will reflect the existing peacefulness of a home setting with patios, family gathering area, a care station and several common areas.
Home Health VNA, Merrimack Valley Hospice, and HomeCare, Inc. are the leaders in home health and hospice care. Together, the not-for-profit organizations form a unique and comprehensive continuum of the highest quality home health and hospice care for patients and families. For more information click here.