OCSA Response to the Auditor General Report on Assisted Living Services
December 7, 2021
Auditor General highlights key opportunities for improvements but misses mark on recommendation
for competitive procurement of Assisted Living Services
OCSA welcomes the Auditor General’s Audit on Assisted Living Services as this report confirms several of the concerns our members, clients and their caregivers have raised for years. Most notably it makes it clear that the province has not invested enough in the development of assisted living services to improve the performance of the entire health system. We must work together to focus on a system-wide solutions-based approach that benefits the growing numbers of people who urgently need these services to live well at home and in their community.
The audit identifies several improvement opportunities related to client safety and health system efficiency. We and our members look forward to working with the Ministry of Health and Ontario Health on these recommendations to build a better health system, one that leverages assisted living services more effectively and allows vulnerable Ontarians to live well at home.
The Auditor General’s report makes it clear that we all must work together to focus on a system-wide solutions-based approach that benefits the growing numbers of people who urgently need these services.
However, OCSA strongly opposes the Auditor General’s recommendation that funding of these services be allocated through a competitive bidding process. As the province’s experience and the evidence has shown, competitively acquired service delivery of key health service does nothing to improve the quality of care or cost effectiveness of service. Competitive bidding processes are disruptive, create unnecessary turnover in front-line staff, hurts care continuity and quality, and reduces client satisfaction. OCSA strongly rejects this recommendation and implores the government to do the same.
“Assisted living services have experienced tremendous growth in the past years due to their success at keeping people at home and in their community” said Deborah Simon, CEO of Ontario Community Support Association. “The recommendations identified in the report are opportunities to strengthen and expand these tremendous services across the province.”
About OCSA
Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) represents close to 230 not-for-profit organizations that provide home care and community support services that help seniors and people with disabilities live independently in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. These compassionate and cost-effective services improve quality of life and prevent unnecessary hospitalizations, emergency room visits and premature institutionalization. They are the key to a sustainable health care system for Ontario. For more information, visit
www.ocsa.on.ca
and
https://twitter.com/OCSAtweets.
About Assisted Living Services
Assisted Living Services enable over 23,000 vulnerable Ontarians such as seniors those with physical disabilities, Acquired Brain Injuries and HIV/Aids to live well at home and in their communities. Through a combination of 24/7 available supports, scheduled personal support services, homemaking and other services, these programs are a less costly alternative to long-term care or hospital care.
To arrange an interview and more information please contact:
Janice Bedore
Executive Assistant
416-256-3010
1-800-267-6272, ext. 224
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ONTARIO, October 1, 2026 — The Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) is marking the start of Community Support Month, recognizing the essential services, and the people behind them, that help Ontarians live safely, independently and connected at home and in their communities. This year’s theme, “Community First: Celebrating the people and services that make care at home possible,” highlights the role of community support in helping people live, recover and age in the places they know and where they feel they belong. Across Ontario, not-for-profit organizations provide services such as Meals on Wheels, transportation, adult day programs, assisted living and supportive housing, respite, homemaking, friendly visiting and hospice care. These services support independence and quality of life, help caregivers, and enable people to live safely at home for longer. They also strengthen the health system by helping prevent avoidable emergency department visits and hospital admissions, delaying or avoiding the need for long-term care, and supporting safe transitions home after a hospital stay. “Care at home is made possible by a network of people and services working together every day,” said Lori Holloway, CEO of OCSA. “Community Support Month is an opportunity to recognize that work and the difference it makes for individuals, families and communities across Ontario. It is also a reminder that strong community support is essential to a strong health system.” Community support organizations are deeply rooted in the communities they serve. Staff, volunteers and partners respond to local needs, helping older adults and people with disabilities access practical assistance, social connection and ongoing support. As demand grows and people’s needs become more complex, these organizations face increasing pressures related to funding and workforce capacity. Recognizing their contribution also means supporting their ability to continue delivering the services people rely on. Throughout October, OCSA is encouraging member organizations, community partners and Ontarians to celebrate community support by sharing stories, recognizing staff and volunteers, and highlighting the impact of services delivered at home and close to home. “Behind every meal delivered, ride provided or opportunity for connection are people who make community care possible,” added Holloway. “This month, we celebrate their dedication and invite Ontarians to learn more about the services helping people remain independent, supported and connected.” OCSA invites the public to join the conversation using #CSM2026 and learn more at www.ocsa.on.ca . Media Contact: Karla Sealy Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) karla.sealy@ocsa.on.ca 416-256-3010 / 1-800-267-6272 ext. 242 About the Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) The Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) is the leading voice for home and community care in Ontario, representing hundreds of not-for-profit organizations delivering both home care and community support services across the province. OCSA members provide essential services including nursing, personal support and therapies; Meals on Wheels, transportation, caregiver supports, and other programs that help people remain safely in their homes and communities. Serving over one million Ontarians each year, OCSA works with government and system partners to advance integrated, community-based care as a cornerstone of a sustainable health system.
September, 2026 - Meals on Wheels Ontario is excited to partner with the LCBO on a province-wide fundraising campaign to support food security for seniors and people with disabilities across Ontario. Customers can purchase a reusable LCBO and Meals on Wheels tote bag, designed by Ontario artist Sarah Farquhar, at participating LCBO stores and online . 100% of proceeds from the tote bag campaign will be donated to Meals on Wheels Ontario to provide meals to seniors and people with disabilities. Funds raised through the campaign will help support clients experiencing financial hardship and help reduce barriers to accessing nutritious meals. Looking for a tote bag? Find a participating LCBO store near you. You can also purchase a tote bag online through LCBO. Share your support Picked up a tote bag? We’d love to see it! Share a photo of your tote bag on social media and tag Ontario Community Support Association so we can see and share your campaign moments. See more at MOW and LCBO Tote Campaign | Meals on Wheels | ON
