Caledon Community Services calls for Provincial Election candidates to support home and community care

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A Caledon non-profit is calling on all Provincial Election candidates to pledge to support home and community care for all Ontarians. 

Caledon Community Services (CCS) CEO Geraldine Aguiar issued the call for support in a February 14 media release.

Aguiar said CCS is asking candidates to commit to expanding home and community care services to meet the growing needs of clients and caregivers across Ontario. CCS would also like candidates to commit to closing the wage gap for community care workers to ensure a stable, motivated workforce capable of delivering quality care to Ontarians.

“Home and community care is not a luxury — it's a necessity for all Ontarians,” said Aguiar. “Not only does it enable individuals to live safely and independently in their homes and communities, it reduces pressure on our hospitals and long-term care facilities. It makes good fiscal sense.”

According to CCS, Ontario's senior population is set to grow by 23 per cent by 2029. With this growth, demand for home and community care is expected to rise significantly. 

Many unpaid caregivers, those who take on the responsibility of caring for a loved one, are experiencing burnout and need more support, according to the release.

“Now more than ever, we need to expand services like personal support, adult day programs, respite care, and independent living services to meet growing demand,” said Aguiar. “Equally important is addressing the wage gap for community care workers. Without fair compensation, we risk losing dedicated workers and further destabilizing the sector.”

Aguiar said all candidates need to commit to expanding “essential” home and community care services to “ensure that every Ontarian has access to the care they deserve.”

“By taking this pledge, they will show their commitment to ensuring that every Ontarian — no matter their age or circumstances — has access to the care they need to live well and thrive,” said Aguiar.