In an attempt to expand services, Hospice of the Central Coast
is seeking more volunteers in San Benito County for in-home
bereavement care for people who are dying.
In an attempt to expand services, Hospice of the Central Coast is seeking more volunteers in San Benito County for in-home bereavement care for people who are dying.
The volunteers would perform “respite” duties, which would entail giving full-time primary caregivers a break from caring for the patients, according to Michael Benedetti, director of Hospice Resource Centers.
Other duties may include patient support and clerical duties, he said.
“Volunteers should also be trained and able to provide psycho-social support,” Benedetti said. “Volunteers should be comfortable enough to have those discussions with someone on any end-of-life issues.”
Hollister no longer has a hospice center, so all bereavement and care takes place at patients’ homes.
Hospice care is for people in their final six months of life, although Hospice of the Central Coast also offers a “transition” program for people with one year or less to live.
“It’s a rewarding opportunity for individuals to work with end-of-life patients,” Benedetti said.
Hospice of the Central Coast will have a booth at the upcoming “Spotlight on Hollister” trade show and job fair May 22 to promote volunteer opportunities. For more information about the program, call Cathy Bargenquast at 637-0611.
