As repairs continue after a burst pipe at Huron Hospice, the Board of Directors is appealing to the public to help pay for reasonable upgrades that go beyond what insurance will cover.

At approximately 9:00 pm on January 15, a fire sprinkler pipe burst causing considerable damage to two resident bedrooms, the kitchen, hallways, and the great room in the hospice. Unfortunately, the hospice residence is closed until repairs can be completed.

It is expected that insurance will cover much of the cost of the repairs to areas affected by water damage. Repairs include insulation and some of the flooring and paint in the affected areas.

While the home is closed, the board has decided to replace all of the floorings throughout the house and re-paint the entire interior giving the house a fresh look. The new floor will be waterproof and much easier to clean and as in any home, the walls need a refresh.

“We decided the residence would look incomplete if some of the floors were replaced and only a few walls re-painted. We have a reasonable plan that is cost-effective to do these upgrades and appeal to the public for their assistance,” said Jay McFarlan Huron Hospice Board Chair.

McFarlan went on to comment, “the work will be done by skilled volunteers which will save money and insurance will offset some of the costs. To replace the entire floor and re-paint the interior will cost approximately $15,000. We expect insurance will cover $5,000. Our costs to do this work is estimated to be $10,000.”

“At this time, we have two wonderful donors who are leading this fundraising effort. Both Compass Minerals and the IODE Maple Leaf Chapter called shortly after the flood and offered to help in any way they could. The IODE and Compass have each pledged $2,500 to the effort which is 50% of our $10,000 goal. We ask the community to join us and contribute toward the goal. The public can help us pay for these necessary upgrades.” said McFarlan.

“Despite the water damage there are many things for which we are thankful,” said Willy Van Klooster Executive Director of Huron Hospice.

He went on to say, “We thank the Central Huron firefighters, who arrived quickly and worked with hospice volunteers, nurses, and their families. As a team, they pitched in and helped with the immediate cleanup. We also thank the volunteers who are working now to get the residence ready to open. It goes without saying we are thankful to both Compass and the IODE and for all the donors who will help us rise up from this situation.”

To contribute people are asked to call Christopher walker at the Hospice 519-525-7352 or log