Groundbreaking for New Hospice Care Center in Cleveland: A Commitment to Compassionate End-of-Life Care

In a significant step towards enhancing healthcare services in Cleveland, the Hospice of the Western Reserve officially broke ground on a new inpatient care and community center in the North Collinwood neighborhood on Wednesday. This ambitious project, valued at million, aims to redefine end-of-life care while emphasizing the importance of compassion and family support during such challenging times. With an expected opening date set for 2026, the future facility will replace and improve upon the existing Hospice House, which has been serving the community for nearly three decades.

Nestled on 185th Street and overlooking the serene waves of Lake Erie, the new hospice center will be designed by the architecture firm E4H. This state-of-the-art facility will feature 32 private patient rooms, all equipped with stunning lakeside views. The design aims to provide not just comfort for patients but also an inclusive environment for their families. The center will also be equipped with advanced technology and new spaces, enabling caregivers to meet the increasingly complex needs of end-of-life care.

The project is more than just a building; it’s a long-term commitment to the community. William E. Finn, President and CEO of Hospice of the Western Reserve, expressed the organization’s dedication to evolving its services to better align with the needs of patients and families in the Cleveland area. He stated, “This new center is a continuation of our commitment to compassionate care, ensuring we meet the needs of patients and families for generations to come.”

To bring this vision to life, Hospice of the Western Reserve has launched a capital campaign with the goal of raising million for the project. As of now, the nonprofit has successfully garnered over million, highlighting the community’s support and trust in the organization’s mission. This kind of backing is essential not just for funding, but also for fostering an environment of hope and healing in a time when families need it the most.

Cleveland Ward 8 Councilman Mike Polensek, who has been a long-time advocate for the hospice, expressed his joy over the project. “Having worked with Hospice from the very beginning on the creation of the original Hospice House at 300 East 185th Street, it has been my privilege to work with Hospice over the years. I am elated that Hospice of the Western Reserve has decided to make such a significant million investment in Cleveland’s 8th Ward,” he said.

In addition to providing medical care in a peaceful setting, the new facility will also serve as a community center, offering bereavement services and activities aimed at healing and connection among patients and families. The need for such resources cannot be understated, as navigating the grief that comes with losing a loved one is an incredibly nuanced journey.

The current Hospice House, which opened its doors in 1995, has successfully cared for over 1,100 patients annually. However, the aging facility has begun to show its limitations, requiring costly maintenance that disrupts patient care. “There is now a growing demand for more complex care, and our staff and volunteers require a modern, more efficient facility to meet these challenges,” the organization emphasized.

Transitioning to a new facility is not merely an upgrade; it’s a transformation in how end-of-life care can be delivered in a nurturing and reassuring environment. By addressing the challenges of inadequate space and outdated facilities, Hospice of the Western Reserve is clearly poised to meet the evolving needs of a changing population.

In essence, this project symbolizes much more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a commitment to maintaining dignity and compassion during one of life’s most difficult times. As Hospice of the Western Reserve ventures into this new chapter, the Cleveland community can look forward to a more supportive and enriched end-of-life care experience.

The future is bright, and the hope is tangible as we eagerly await the opening of this state-of-the-art center in 2026. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together to support a shared mission of care and compassion.