Hospital Volunteer Visits/Support

Mission Hospice volunteers provide emotional support and practical help to people who are facing a life-threatening illness and respite support for those caring for them. Visiting volunteers are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings at the medical unit in Mission Hospital and at the Christine Morrison Hospice.

Some areas of volunteer support may include:

  • Talking, listening, reading, and playing games
  • Assistance with letter writing, legacy work, or other small personal projects
  • Traditional tea service
  • Spiritual support
  • Respite for family members or other caregivers
  • Vigil support
  • Feeding assistance
  • End of life wish events such as outings, gatherings, celebrations

In-Home Volunteer Visits

In-home volunteers are important for those who may not have adequate access to the support of family and friends. Our volunteers offer emotional and practical support through conversation, companionship, assistance with small errands, and other activities. Visiting in-home volunteers are available for patients and their family at home or in retirement residences and long-term care facilities.

Caregiver Support

We understand the 24/7 responsibility of being a caregiver for a loved one. We provide resources for caregivers and referrals to support groups. Our volunteers are available to family members who need a break from the bedside of a loved one, and also provide compassionate support and a listening ear to caregivers.
Drop-in group runs Wednesdays, 10:30am – 12pm, pre-registration is required.  Please contact Christine Boyes, Volunteer Coordinator for more information or to register: cboyes@missionhospice.bc.ca.

Sitting Vigils

Vigil volunteers provide the support and physical presence that patients and families may need during a loved one’s final moments. Vigil volunteers may be requested a few hours or a few days before death. For longer vigil requests, volunteers may take shifts.

The vigil process may include any of the following:

  • A calming presence
  • Sitting together
  • Talking and listening
  • Shared silence
  • Healing touch/Reiki
  • Reading of inspirational or spiritual texts
  • Requested rituals
  • Inspirational music
  • Lighting candles

Complementary Therapies

Our trained volunteers offer a variety of complementary therapies which can help ease pain, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.

These include:

  • Healing touch/Reiki
  • Pet therapy
  • Meditation
  • Music therapy
  • Art therapy