Neshama Hospice increases capacity in hospice residence currently under construction, thanks to increased funding from Ministry of Health


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 27, 2025 (North York, ON) – Neshama Hospice is grateful for the increased funding announced as part of the Ontario Ministry of Health’s Hospice Bed Expansion Program.

The incremental funding will support operational expansion of the Neshama Hospice facility, which began construction in the Bathurst St/Wilson Ave neighbourhood in North York in November 2024. The estimated opening is fall of 2026.

This expansion is part of the province’s up to $19.7 million investment to add 84 hospice beds across Ontario.

“This funding demonstrates our ongoing commitment to ensuring that individuals and families across Ontario have access to compassionate, high-quality end-of-life care close to home. By supporting local hospice care, we are strengthening our healthcare system and providing comfort and dignity to those who need it most” The Hon. Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario, MPP for York Centre.

The Ministry’s newly announced commitment will allow for increased operational capacity from 10 to 12 beds, providing more people and their families with high quality, end-of-life care in the home-like setting of the Ganz Family Building.



“Our deepest thanks go to the Hon. Sylvia Jones, Minister of Health, Hon. Michael Kerzner, MPP for York Centre, and Councillor James Pasternak, Ward 6 York Centre, for their steadfast support in helping us meet the growing needs of our community,” said Lisa Kronenberg, Executive Director of Neshama Hospice. “This partnership is a testament to what we can achieve when government and community work together.”

The additional beds will address a critical shortfall of hospice capacity in the area, where there are currently no residential hospice beds available to the North York community.

“Neshama Hospice was launched through philanthropic investment, volunteerism, and the generosity of the Jewish community. The additional investment by the province, and the vital partnership with the Ministry of Health and our political leaders means that a critical need is being addressed, strengthening healthcare in the community and beyond,” said Mindy Herman, Chair of the Board, Neshama Hospice. 

Ongoing support from the community remains vital. “The Ministry’s funding is an important milestone” Kronenberg added. “It will ensure, together with our generous donors, volunteers, and community partners, that Neshama Hospice is a beacon of compassionate care for years to come.”

For more information about Neshama Hospice and how to support its mission, please visit www.neshamahospice.com