Ontario Private Member's Bill is an Important Step in Recognizing Caregivers

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Nov. 5, 2015 /CNW/ - Carers Canada (formerly Canadian Caregiver Coalition) commends MPP Frances Gelinas for introducing the Family Caregiver Day Act in Ontario. This private Member's bill declares the First Tuesday in April as Family Caregiver Day in recognition of the critical role family caregivers play in Ontario.

Carers, also known as family caregivers, are family members, neighbours and friends who take on an unpaid caring role to support someone with a diminishing physical ability, a debilitating cognitive condition or a chronic life-limiting illness.  While they assume difficult and exhausting roles to ensure the quality of life for the person they care for, their contributions often go unrecognized.  "For those of us who are, and for those of us who will be caregivers in the future, the cost of caregiving will impact our lives, emotionally, economically, socially and physically," said Nadine Henningsen, President, Carers Canada.  

Over the past 15 years, Carers Canada has advocated for recognition and respect for the integral role carers have in our society. "Family Caregiver Day is a tangible way for all Ontarians to publically recognize and thank caregivers," stated Anthony Milonas, Chief Operating Officer, CBI Health Group and Signatory Partner for Carers Canada.  "Carers are the backbone of our health care system and must be recognized and supported to ensure their health and well-being."

Carers Canada encourages the Government of Ontario to support the private Member's bill and clearly show their commitment to family caregivers. Carers Canada looks forward to working with the Ontario government, Ontario Caregiver Coalition and other engaged stakeholders to support this important step in ensuring greater support for caregivers to care for their loved ones and also to take care of themselves.

About Carers Canada
Carers Canada (formally known as Canadian Caregiver Coalition), established in 2000, is an alliance of diverse partner organizations that work collectively, and autonomously, to identify and respond to the needs of Carers in Canada.  Carers Canada's mission is to enhance the quality of life for carers through synergistic partnerships and global advocacy that strengthens and honors the voice of carers.  

SOURCE Canadian Home Care Association

Catherine Suridjan, Public Policy and Stakeholder Relations Lead, Carers Canada, [email protected]