TORONTO, October 1, 2019 – October is Community Support Month and organizations that deliver home and community care are working hard to create partnerships with Ontario Health Teams to deliver seamless services to Ontarians in need.

During this time of intense transformation and health care system change community care frontline providers are on the ground supporting seniors and persons with physical disabilities to remain in their own homes and communities. Since these services encompass health promotion, preventative services and re-enablement services, they not only meet a client's current needs, but, more importantly, they defend against decline and more serious needs in the future.

There are over 25 different services including personal care and home helps, Meals on Wheels, Alzheimer and adult day programs, transportation to medical appointments, caregiver support, and hospice and palliative care services.

While more long-term care beds are needed, until increased capacity is ready, additional resources for the home and community support sector will help alleviate current pressure on the healthcare system and meet the needs of the vulnerable public clients that desperately need support now.

“Not-for-profit home and community care providers are excited to break down barriers and work even more closely with their local partners to better serve clients and patients in their area,” says Deborah Simon, CEO of Ontario Community Support Association. “Community Support Month highlights the amazing frontline work these organizations do – work that helps take the pressure off the health system during this time of change.”

Here are the specific celebration days for the month: