Kingston’s first hospice house opens its doors

Major milestone in end-of-life care in Kingston

Providence Care’s AB Smith Homestead House officially welcomed its first patient on March 19, marking a major milestone in end-of-life care for southeastern Ontario. As Kingston’s first hospice house, it serves more than 165,000 people, filling a critical gap in local hospice services, with the nearest facility previously located in Belleville.

“For more than a decade, our community has advocated for dedicated hospice care in Kingston,” said Krista Wells Pearce, Providence Care Vice President, Corporate Services and Executive Director, Hospice. “Now, AB Smith Homestead House stands as a testament to that vision and commitment.”

Located at 152 Phillips St., the hospice offers 24-hour compassionate care in a home-like setting with 10 private suites, family spaces, and a spiritual room. Funded largely by community donations, it expands Providence Care’s palliative services, which also include hospital and community-based support.

“This hospice truly belongs to the community,” said Providence Care President and CEO Cathy Szabo. “Continued donor support is essential to sustaining its operations.”

Access to the hospice requires a referral from a healthcare provider and specific eligibility criteria.