Our Story

A Vision of Compassion.
A Legacy of Care.

Oak Ridges Hospice began with a simple but powerful belief: that everyone deserves dignity, comfort, and peace at the end of life.

More than a decade ago, Port Perry physician Dr. Steven Russell recognized a deep need in our community: an alternative to hospital or home for people living with a life-limiting illness. He envisioned a space where care would be centered on comfort, not cure. A space where families could gather, where moments could be shared, and where no one would die alone.

From that vision, a grassroots movement was born. Dr. Russell joined forces with dedicated local citizens and healthcare advocates to form the North Durham Residential Hospice Committee. Despite early challenges, the passion and commitment of this group laid the foundation for what was to come.

In 2015, everything changed. Local philanthropists Kevin Morgan and Dave Sidhu recognized the importance of this vision and pledged a transformational $2 million gift to bring a hospice residence to life. Their generosity formed The Morgan & Sidhu Family Hospice Ltd., and with it, the movement gained new momentum.

A new board of directors was established, charitable status was granted, and Oak Ridges Hospice of Durham Ltd. was born. With guidance from community members in healthcare, business, and nonprofit leadership, and collaboration with the Ministry of Health, operational funding was secured.

At the same time, our community stepped up in an extraordinary way. A dedicated capital campaign was launched to raise the remaining funds needed to bring the hospice to life. Local residents, businesses, service clubs, and organizations rallied behind the cause. Events were held, donations flowed in, and together, we reached our goal. It was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together with compassion and purpose.

By 2020, construction was underway and in spring 2021, our doors officially opened.

Morgan & Sidhu House

Our home – the Morgan & Sidhu House – is a 12,500 sq. ft. residence nestled in Port Perry. It includes ten spacious bedrooms, each with large windows, private washrooms, and inviting home-like touches. More than a building, it is a haven of peace for those nearing the end of life.

Since opening, we’ve served more than 700 residents and countless family members, becoming the first—and still the only—hospice residence in Durham Region. We are open 24/7, always here when someone needs us.

What We Believe

At Oak Ridges Hospice, we offer care that is deeply compassionate, holistic, and free of charge to anyone with a valid OHIP card. Our interdisciplinary team of nurses, personal support workers, physicians, volunteers, and support staff provide round-the-clock care that honours the physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, and cultural needs of both residents and their loved ones.

We believe in honouring each individual’s story, choices, and dignity. We believe every moment matters—before, during, and after death.

We are committed to providing care that brings peace, comfort, and meaning in the final chapter of life.

Our Story Is Still Being Written

Oak Ridges Hospice is more than a building—it is a reflection of what’s possible when a community comes together in love, hope, and humanity.

While we are partially funded by the government, we must raise over $1 million every year to continue offering this exceptional care. The generosity of our community is not just part of our history—it is vital to our future.

As we look ahead, our story continues to grow—with every resident we care for, every volunteer who walks through our doors, and every donor who believes in what we do.

We invite you to be part of our story. Because every life matters. Every moment counts. And every act of compassion writes a new chapter in the legacy of care.

What our families
have to say

“The care that my wife received was way beyond what I could have expected. The thoughtfulness and kindness and hospitality that my daughters and I received were far and above anything we could have expected.”
“The entire experience was of the highest standards from the start until the end. The medical staff, admissions, volunteers, truly cared for us all and were above and beyond with their care and compassion.”
“Our family is so grateful that mom was able to spend her final days of life at such a comfortable and peace filled place. The care and love from all at the Hospice, Drs, nurses, PSWs, cleaning team, kitchen staff, EVERYONE....was incredible. We will be forever grateful for the care for mom and our family.”

T & A

"Thank you so much for your compassion and comforting support to Mom and our family during her final days. Your kind, devoted staff and volunteers make Oak Ridges Hospice a very special place!"

J. W.

"It was a devastating year for me with D’s illness and passing. When I think of the Hospice it is very calming for me. It was a very good last stop for him. He was cared for and I didn’t have to worry when I went home at night. You were as concerned about us as the family as you were of him. With sincere appreciation!"

M. L.

"My Mother was treated with kindness, thoughtfulness and dignity. She was given joy in her final days and this will never be forgotten."

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