Giant green ribbons are tied around street poles and trees along West Main Street in Belleville in recognition of National Hospice Month.

The ribbons were tied by members of Family Hospice of Belleville and can be seen from 4800 West Main Street to 5700 West Main Street. Also, Lindenwood University-Belleville has partnered with the organization and has green ribbons displayed around the campus.

National Hospice Month kicked off Thursday and is recognized to raise awareness about the importance of hospice care for individuals and their families.

Nearly 2 million people annually benefit from hospice care, according to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. Family Hospice of Belleville, a nonprofit hospice care organization, provides care for about 250 people annually. Family Hospice serves the Southern Illinois counties of St. Clair, Madison, Monroe, Clinton, Randolph and Washington.

The organization operates on donations and funds raised through its annual Tree of Memories campaign. The campaign offers the public a chance to make a donation to Family Hospice and to purchase unique ornaments in memory of loved ones.

Hospice care provides comfort and support to the dying and their families by providing medical services, social services and counseling, a chaplain, music therapy, bereavement programs for adults and children, memorials and educational programs.

More information about hospice care or about the Tree of Memories campaign can be found at familyhospice.org