About Us & Resources

Hospice started as a volunteer organization, and has remained true to the volunteer spirit to this day. Its first office was located in a room at the former New York Air Brake and housed a staff of less than ten. After becoming certified and eligible to participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs, the staff and caseload grew, necessitating a move to larger quarters at 714 Washington Street, Watertown. In 1994, the agency settled into its next office at 425 Washington Street.

Today Hospice consists of a staff of 41 nurses, social workers and counselors and a large group of volunteers. Over the years Hospice has cared for more than 5,000 patients and their families in Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties. Although its address may have changed several times, one thing that has never changed is Hospice's unwavering commitment to help people live their final months of life in dignity and comfort.

Hospice is governed by two boards, one which oversees the operating agency and the other which manages the Foundation. The Boards and their committees meet regularly and play an active role in assuring that excellent hospice care is available for all patients. 

The Boards embrace accountability and transparency, and ensure that the agency operates according to the highest ethical standards.

In 2011, hospice moved to a 5-acre campus on Gotham Street.  An eight-room residence and office building opened, which included homecare staff headquarters.  This facility allows Hospice to provide care to patients who lack round-the-clock caregivers, as well as respite for families who may need some help from time to time.

The Hospice Foundation of Jefferson County, Inc. is a nonprofit corporation created to provide financial support for Hospice of Jefferson County. The Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors.

Through its fundraising efforts, the Foundation is able to ensure that all patients, regardless of means, receive the same high level of care.

In addition to providing operating support to Hospice (insurance reimbursements do not cover the full cost of care), underwrites the bereavement program, and maintains the assets of the agency. It will be the purpose of Hospice of Jefferson County, Inc. to ensure that Hospice services remain strong and fiscally viable to serve as an integral component of our community's health care system.

The Hospice Foundation encourages community support for Hospice through events such as the annual Hospice Ball, Hospice Senior & Junior Regattas, Hospice Harvest Festival as well as the Ultimate Hospice Golf Package and the Memory Tree events; through planned giving; memorial gifts, and annual campaigns.

Hospice Foundation of Jefferson County is tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code. Our federal tax ID # is 16-1541636.