On April 3rd, 2025, BCHPCA proudly participated in the "Dying, Death, Burial & Bereavement Resource Fair", hosted by Jewish Family Services (JFS). This meaningful community event brought together organizations across sectors committed to supporting individuals through life’s most profound transitions. We were honoured to represent the hospice and palliative care community in British Columbia and engage with attendees about the essential work our members do in providing end-of-life care, grief support, and advocacy.

Through our booth, we connected with seniors, caregivers, and service providers, highlighting the vital role hospices play not only in providing comfort and dignity at the end of life but also in supporting families and communities before, during, and after a loss. One of our core priorities at BCHPCA is promoting grief and bereavement as a public health issue – one that deserves sustained investment and recognition within the broader healthcare system.

We were pleased to be joined at the event by our member, the Vancouver Hospice Society, who showcased their innovative bereavement programs, such as the Bereavement Walking Program and the Parent’s Grief Support Group. Their approach exemplifies how accessible, community-based grief support can create healing spaces and support those with their grief journey.

At BCHPCA, we are working on multiple strategies to strengthen grief and bereavement care across the province. This includes building awareness through events like the past Grief, Bereavement, and Mental Health Summit 2024, engaging health and community leaders, and advocating for policy changes that recognize bereavement as a critical component of health and wellness.

Thank you to JFS for hosting such a thoughtful and welcoming event, and to everyone who stopped by our booth to learn more about hospice and palliative care in BC. Together, we continue to advocate for a future where grief and loss are met with understanding, resources, and community.

Daniel Ordonez Mantilla 
Data and Research Coordinator