Making dreams a reality

Keaton's House, an initiative of the Kemp Care Network with medical care provided in partnership with McMaster Children's Hospital, will have 10 beds, to be used for hospice or respite care for families from more than 20 municipalities in McMaster Children's Hospital's coverage area.

Construction is close to starting on a children’s hospice in Dundas after city council approved a below-market lease for the land and the province provided funding to build and operate it.

The city will negotiate a below-market lease for a future children’s hospice on municipal land in Dundas with the goal of firming up an agreement in coming months. Kemp Care Network aims to build the pediatric hospice on the 41 South St. W. parcel by Wentworth Lodge, one of the city’s two municipally run long-term care homes.

Feb 7th, 2024 marked a significant milestone for Keaton’s House – Paul Paletta’s Children’s Hospice, bringing us closer to turning our dreams into reality. KCN representatives, partners, allies, and supporters gathered before the General Issues Committee of Hamilton’s city council to present the proposal for our hospice’s construction phase. Remarks by Danielle Zucchet, CEO of KCN, Megan Wright from Roger Neilson House Pediatric Hospice (Ottawa), and members of our family circle rounded out the presentation.

The proposal received overwhelming support from councillors, including Ward 13 Councillor Alex Wilson and Mayor Horwath. Pending some final details, we anticipate ratification during a full council meeting on February 14. We’re grateful to the Hamilton city council and its citizens for your ongoing support as we move forward with our plans to build a children’s hospice at 41 South St. West in Ward 13/Dundas.

A significant milestone in our journey towards building a pediatric hospice palliative center. Keaton’s House – Paul Paletta Children’s Hospice, made its inaugural appearance in front of an inspiring group of supporters and friends.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the thousands of contributors so far and to those that are considering a gift in the future. And special recognition goes to Paul Paletta whose transformational gift translated to the beautiful naming reveal.

June was marked by successfully hosting the “Welcome to the Future: Pediatric Palliative Hospice Care Symposium.” This event brought together families, community organizations, and experts in the field, fostering an environment of learning and shared experiences in pediatric palliative care. For almost every participant, it was an event that was first-of-its-kind in our region. We all play a part.

A significant development in July was securing the land at 41 South Street, Dundas, for the hospice. This city council approval marked a major step forward in establishing a permanent and nurturing space for the children and families we support.