BC announces $4.5M in funding for 'much-needed' upgrades to Canuck Place Children’s Hospice

On Friday the province announced new funding for upgrades at Canuck Place Children’s Hospice in Vancouver.

Adrian Dix, BC’s Minister for Health, said $4.5 million would go towards enhancing patient care rooms, improving the ventilation system, structural repairs to the roof and exterior of the building, making accessibility improvements and creating a new building for administrative functions.

“No one wants to think about their child requiring hospice care, and when they do need that care, they should be able to focus solely on their child,” said Dix.

“The new funding will allow Canuck Place to make needed upgrades to their facility, so that children and their families can continue to receive care in a safe and comfortable space during a vulnerable time in their lives.”

Canuck Place originally opened in 1995 and was the first children's hospice in North America.

The facility serves families across BC and the Yukon with two locations in Vancouver and Abbotsford.

Denise Praill, CEO, Canuck Place, says the funding will improve quality, safety and efficiency in care for over 870 children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

“With the support of the Province of BC, Canuck Place can now address much-needed upgrades to our Vancouver hospice,” Praill, added.

Construction at the facility is expected to be completed in 2025.