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Community Spotlight: HCS – Transforming Lives Through Care, Compassion, and Connection

An image of a young woman smiling warmly while embracing an elderly man, symbolizing care and compassion. The Home Healthcare, Hospice & Community Services logo is prominently displayed, along with the words 'Community Spotlight.'
Community Spotlight: HCS – Transforming Lives Through Care, Compassion, and Connection
Empowering Lives Through Exceptional Care

Community Spotlight logo featuring a green spotlight icon shining rays of light, with the text 'Community Spotlight' in teal beneath the spotlight. The background includes a subtle abstract shape in light beige with dotted accentsOur Community Spotlight series shines a light on the incredible organizations and initiatives shaping the Monadnock region. From addressing mental health to combating hunger, these inspiring stories highlight the power of community connection and the difference we can make together.

Group of six individuals smiling during a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the opening of the HCS Peterborough office in the Medical Arts Building at Monadnock Community Hospital. They are standing indoors in front of a staircase, holding a large red ribbon tied into a bow. The logo of Home Healthcare, Hospice & Community Services is displayed in the lower-left corner

For over a century, Home Healthcare, Hospice, and Community Services (HCS) has been a cornerstone of care in southwestern New Hampshire. Established in 1907, HCS has grown into a trusted provider of essential health and wellness services that empower individuals to live their best lives. From home care to hospice, foot care to Healthy Starts, HCS’s programs are a testament to the power of compassionate, community-focused care. 

A Mission to Serve and Empower

The mission of HCS is clear: to enable people to function throughout their lives at their optimal level of health, well-being, and independence. Whether it’s helping individuals recover at home after a hospitalization through visiting nurse services or providing compassionate end-of-life care through hospice, HCS adapts its approach to meet the evolving needs of the community. 

These programs represent the heart of HCS—meeting people where they are and providing the support they need to thrive. 

Stories of Impact

HCS’s impact is best illustrated through the lives it touches every day. For instance, John*, a long-time patient, faced complex and exhausting medical challenges, including weekly clinic treatments. Over time, his HCS care team—which included a dedicated nurse, social worker, and occupational therapist—helped him manage his symptoms and regain a sense of control over his life and plans. 

 As his health declined, HCS’s Palliative Advanced Practice Nurse and Social Worker joined the team, providing guidance on advance care planning and emotional support for both John and his elderly parent. When the time came, John transitioned to hospice care, supported every step of the way by his HCS team. Thanks to their compassionate approach, John was able to fulfill his wish for a peaceful and dignified end-of-life journey in the comfort of his own home. 

This is not an isolated incident, but daily reminders of the profound difference HCS makes. Its holistic approach ensures that every individual receives the care, attention, and resources they need to lead fulfilling lives. 

Looking Ahead: Engaging with HCS

Upcoming Events and Initiatives

HCS is excited to announce the 2025 Annual Butterfly Release events, a cherished tradition that allows participants to honor loved ones or simply enjoy the beauty of nature. Attendees can purchase a butterfly to release in meaningful locations: 

  • June 19: Cathedral of the Pines, Rindge 
  • June 20 & 21: Butterfly Park, Marlboro Street, Keene 

Details, including times and registration, will be available at HCSServices.org. 

 In addition to these special events, HCS is proud to host initiatives that focus on getting the word out to the community. Programs such as Walk In Wednesday and hospice and palliative care education programs encourage people to get to know HCS before they need services. These initiatives exemplify HCS’s commitment to meeting people where they are—offering support when it’s needed most. 

Future Goals and Innovations

HCS is dedicated to enhancing community health through cutting-edge initiatives. Key plans include Palliative Care at Home, focused on symptom management for chronic illnesses, and exploring the Hospital at Home model. This transformative program allows certain conditions typically requiring hospitalization to be treated at home, leveraging advancements like telemonitoring. These forward-thinking solutions will position HCS as a leader in affordable, high-quality care. 

A Collaborative Vision for the Future

Collaboration is at the core of HCS’s success. Partnerships with organizations like Monadnock Community Hospital and the Monadnock Mobile Integrated Healthcare program have expanded the reach and impact of HCS’s services. Recent initiatives include prenatal and postpartum care for high-risk mothers and efforts to address transportation gaps in the region, ensuring that no one is left behind. 

How You Can Help

HCS thrives because of the generosity and involvement of the community it serves. Volunteers play a vital role, whether it’s providing respite for a family caregiver through the hospice program, helping with fundraising activities, or supporting administrative tasks. Every contribution, no matter the size, strengthens HCS’s ability to fulfill its mission. 

 To ensure that everyone has access to compassionate care, we invite you to: 

  • Attend an event, such as the Butterfly Release, to experience the spirit of HCS firsthand. 
  • Volunteer your time to support programs like hospice care. 
  • Donate to help expand and sustain services that make a real difference. 

A Legacy of Hope

As HCS enters its 118th year, it remains steadfast in its commitment to providing exceptional care. Its services don’t just address immediate needs—they build a foundation for lasting health and well-being. Through compassionate care, innovative programs, and strong community ties, HCS continues to transform lives, one connection at a time.  

We invite you to the Monadnock Community Hospital Campus for the HCS Open House event on Tuesday, February 11th from 3:00pm-5:00pm. The Open House will be held in conference rooms 1 ands 2, located near the main entrance and  Window Shop. Guests can enjoy lite refreshments while learning more about HCS programs and the services now offered in the Medical Arts Building at the MCH campus. 

 Visit HCSServices.org to learn more about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and how you can contribute to the well-being of our community.