Grande Prairie Palliative Care Society

The Grande Prairie Palliative Care Society is a registered Canadian nonprofit organization, focused on providing specialized end-of-life care in Northwest Alberta. The organization supports individuals with life-threatening illnesses and their families by offering compassionate programs, education, and advocacy. These services aim to improve the quality of life for those affected by serious illnesses, from diagnosis through to dying and grieving.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the Grande Prairie Palliative Care Society is to enhance the quality of living and dying for individuals and their families facing life-limiting conditions. This is achieved by providing comprehensive care that addresses medical, psychological, social, spiritual, and practical needs.

Services and Initiatives

The society offers a range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of patients and their families. Some notable programs include:

• Comfort Care Bags: Providing essential items to support comfort and well-being.
• Compassionate Communities in Palliative Care: Fostering supportive communities to care for those in need.
• Grief Companion: Offering support to those experiencing loss.
• Sheepskin Loaner Program: Providing comfort through loaned sheepskins.
• Vigil Companion: Offering companionship during difficult times.
• Virtual Care and Virtual Pen Pal: Enabling connections with loved ones through technology.

Virtual Care Community Project

The society received funding for its Virtual Care Community Project as part of the New Horizons Seniors Program. This project involved loaning iPads to seniors to help them maintain connections with family and friends during the pandemic. The initiative facilitated over 300 seniors in staying in touch with their community, highlighting the importance of social connections in palliative care.

Operations

The organization operates with the goal of establishing and maintaining expert end-of-life care in Northwest Alberta. It is recognized as a registered charity and not-for-profit organization in Canada, contributing to the broader efforts in palliative care across the region.