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Sakura House Receives $500,000 Donation

Wednesday, 16 October 2024 06:25

By Marcie Culbert X @marcieculbert

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The donation is in memory of Archie Verspeeten, who passed away in November 2023.

WOODSTOCK - VON Sakura House has received a $500,000 donation from the Verspeeten family.

Dennis and Brian Verspeeten presented the cheque yesterday in memory of their father Archie Verspeeten, who passed away last year.

Brian says Archie expressed a wish to support Sakura House before he died.

"Our dad had visited Sakura House on more than one occasion. He had several friends that required hospice care and then, sadly, his 56-year-old son Alan also became a patient."

Sakura House is the only residential hospice in Oxford County, offering 10 beds to those who require end of life care free of cost. Up to 276 patients stayed at the hospice last year alone.

Manager of Fund Development Brittany Bratt says they rely on donations from the public.

"Each year we seek to fundraise over a million dollars to ensure that no patient or their family needs to worry about paying for the care received at Sakura House. Although we are partially funded by the government, things like heat, hydro and groceries must be covered through fundraising dollars. The Verspeeten family’s gift will have a tremendous impact on those we serve, and we are so grateful for the support of this wonderful family."

Manager of Home and Community Care Janine Jackson says the donation from the Verspeeten family will support families going through heartbreaking times.

"Ultimately, this donation strengthens the heart of our mission—to provide compassionate care that honours life and offers peace in its final stages. It ensures that Sakura House will continue to be a place where individuals and families can find hope, comfort, and connection at a time when they need it most."

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