FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Barrie, December 11, 2025
Barrie, ON – The 2024 merger of Hospice Simcoe and Seasons Centre for Grieving Children (now Hospice Simcoe – Seasons Centre) has created a stronger, more connected organization dedicated to helping children, youth, and families navigate grief. And thanks to a generous, $21,200 Seed grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation in 2024, the organization has been able to enhance staff and volunteer skills to deliver programs and services.
“This merger of Hospice Simcoe and Seasons Centre for Grieving Children is a fantastic example of what can happen when our local organizations are able to put the needs of the community the serve at the forefront,” said Doug Downey, MPP for Barrie – Springwater – Oro-Medonte. “Through the joint services of Hospice Simcoe – Seasons Centre, families will now be supported through end-of-life care and into the grieving process as they cope with the loss of their loved one. This wraparound service will allow for a more comprehensive model of care for those who are suffering a loss.”
Funds from the year long grant were used by the organization to assist with some staffing and program material costs.
“By strengthening volunteer onboarding, training, and ongoing support, we will be better positioned to deliver impactful community programs and expand our reach to meet the needs of the volunteers who serve grieving children,” said Teneal Campbell, Community Programs Manager. “As a grassroots volunteer driven organization, we rely heavily on our volunteers to provide person-centred care. Without training and support, sustainability and delivery of our programming is at risk. Creating standards will ensure all clients receive exemplary support. This grant helps make that possible.”
Hospice Simcoe – Seasons Centre have each been supporting the community for more than 30 years. The Community Programs team is comprised of social workers and trained volunteers who support approximately 600 new clients each year, with 23% being children who’ve experienced the loss of someone close to them.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
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| Media Contact: Marilyn Guest, Fund Development & Communications Manager Hospice Simcoe – Seasons Centre 705-722-5995 marilyn@hospicesimcoe.ca |
Hospice Simcoe
Seasons Centre for Grieving Children