Toronto, Ontario – September, 2024 – The Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) has released its 2025 pre-budget submission report, The Care That’s Needed – The Care That’s Wanted, highlighting the critical need for increased investment in home and community care services across the province.

As Ontario’s aging population continues to grow, so too does the demand for services that allow seniors and people with disabilities to live safely and independently at home. The report outlines the steps needed to address the urgent challenges facing the sector, including expanding service capacity and improving workforce retention. Among its key recommendations, OCSA calls for:

• A 5% funding increase to expand access to essential services, such as personal support, Meals on Wheels, transportation, and other community-based supports that allow individuals to remain in their homes.
• A 3% wage increase for frontline workers, who provide critical care to vulnerable populations, ensuring fair compensation and supporting the sector’s ability to retain experienced staff and deliver high-quality care.

OCSA emphasizes that despite the growing demand for home and community care, the sector is struggling to keep pace. Waitlists for services are getting longer, and chronic staff shortages are making it increasingly difficult for people to receive timely and appropriate care.

"Without immediate investment, Ontario risks leaving many individuals and families without the support they need to live independently," said Deborah Simon, CEO of OCSA. "We are at a pivotal moment. The solutions are clear, but action must be taken now to prevent the crisis from worsening."

The pre-budget submission is a direct appeal to the Ontario government to prioritize home and community care in the upcoming budget. These services are not only cost-effective but are essential in supporting the health and well-being of Ontario’s most vulnerable citizens.

About OCSA
The Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) champions a strong, sustainable home and community care sector in Ontario. The association represents over 220 not-for-profit organizations deliver high-quality services that help seniors, people with disabilities, and those with complex care needs remain independent in their homes and communities. These proactive and cost-effective services prevent unnecessary hospitalizations, emergency room visits and premature institutionalization. For more information visit www.ocsa.on.ca or @OCSATweets

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

Karla Sealy (she/her)

Manager of Communications

416-256-3010/1-800-267-6272, ext 242

karla.sealy@ocsa.on.ca