PETER Porter of Port Dover has made a $500,000 donation to Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice in honour of his late wife, Judith Ann—known by her large circles of friends as Judy.
The local hospice says this “transformational” donation will support its construction. The hospice’s family room will be named in Judy’s honour—“creating a space where families can find comfort, peace, and connection during their most difficult moments,” the hospice said.
Judy passed away in 2024 after battling cancer. As a stroke survivor, she required 24/7 care from Peter in her final months.
“I wish my wife had access to a hospice at the end of her life,” Peter said. “She didn’t want to go to the hospital—she wanted to be at home. And I never pushed it. But looking back, I understand how much a hospice would have helped, not just for her, but for me, too. It’s a place like home, but with the support you need.”
“If your loved one is suffering for a long time, it’s not fair to them—or to the family. A hospice would have allowed me to be with her, without having to take care of her. That’s a big deal,” Peter said.
Recognizing the need for a hospice in Norfolk and Haldimand, Peter is committed to ensuring that other families don’t face the same challenges he did.
“I have been very fortunate in business, and I really appreciate the landowners and especially the people who have worked for me. Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to do what I’ve done. This is my way of paying it back,” Peter shared.
He hopes that his donation will inspire others to support the hospice, ensuring that families in need have access to compassionate, dignified, end-of-life care.
“Maybe one day, someone else in this community will have the fortune of using this facility when they need it most,” Peter says. “It will make things a little easier for them—and that’s what matters.”
The Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice extended its “heartfelt gratitude” to Peter for his generosity and vision.
“Peter’s incredible generosity will make a lasting impact on our hospice and the families we serve,” said Andrea Binkle, executive director of the Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice. “His gift ensures that those facing end-of-life care will have access to a warm, supportive, and home-like environment. We are deeply grateful for his commitment to creating a space where families can find peace, dignity, and the care they deserve.”
Information about the hospice is at norfolkhaldimandhospice.ca.
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Originally published April 2, 2025
