The Rose Garden Hospice received a $10,000 boost Wednesday as they continue raising funds to support the facility’s construction.
The Horn family was the latest to get on board with the project. The proprietors of Fresh Air Experience have contributed to several city projects over the years, whether sports-related or not.
“We’ve been donating to projects that we feel benefit the entire community and not just our customer base or customer clientele,” Ron Horn said.
“This is something that the community has been looking at for a long time. Here’s something that will be a benefit to the entire area.”
Mike Horn, Ron’s son, said the donation is a way to give back to the community. Without the community, they wouldn’t have a successful store. He also emphasized the importance of shopping at local businesses, like Fresh Air, that contribute to large projects that benefit all.
“It’s tough to raise money in this environment,” Ron said.
“There aren’t the same kinds of dollars around that there were a few years ago. We thought now was a good time. Let’s put our two cents in there and help it along. Hopefully, it will encourage other businesses that can to support the project as well.”
The hospice has recently also received support from A&W and ongoing support from Canadian Tire. Malcolm Jenkins of Canadian Tire has pledged $500,000 towards the $4 million construction price tag.
From June 14-20, $2 from every teen burger sold in Prince Albert will go towards the construction.
The hospice has also asked the city to waive some development fees.
Other support has come from contractors, professionals and sub-trades reducing prices or donating their services, and from suppliers reducing the cost of building supplies.
The province has pledged to provide up to $2 million per year in operational funding once the facility is constructed.
It’s set to house 10 beds and serve about 300 families a year, giving them somewhere comfortable and home-like to receive palliative care and die in comfort, instead of in a hospital bed.
