Rotarian Joan Shirlow thanks Lisa Geoffrey of Haldimand-Norfolk Senior Support Services Inc for speaking to us today.
What are Senior Support Services www.seniorsupport.ca ? They are funded 80% by the Province of Ontario LHIN (Local Health Integration Network). There are many local areas across Haldiman-Norfolk. Lisa is the manger of the geographic area centered in Simcoe. Lisa has approximately 500 clients aged 60 and over and disabled adults on ODSP.
It is the responsibility of the local area Manager to raise the remaining 20% in the community. Lisa does this with four events:
- Flowers for Life
- Annual September Golf Tournament
- Decorate X-mas Tree at the Mall
- Draw – The 12 days of X-mas
Lisa relies on volunteers. This is a worthy cause for anyone to volunteer and be fulfilled. A significant service component is transportation in the community. Seniors unable to drive or without another network of support may require transportation such as to: social events organized for seniors, medical appointments or shopping.
Transportation is arranged in advance and may include 3 stops before returning home. Very reasonable fixed rates are charged. The volunteers are paid a kilometer allowance for using their automobiles.
Think of the services that a senior may require. Lisa has volunteers to assist:
- Adult Day Programmes
- Meals On Wheels
- Dinner’s Programme – for $11 including transportation a nutritious meal monthly or bimonthly
- Volunteer Hospice and Caregiver Support
- Friendly Visits by caring volunteers
- Hone maintenance, cleaning and yard work brokered at low cost fees
- Home safety assessments
- Telephone reassurance – based upon regular telephone contact with the senior (to ensure they are OK
For more information – contact Lisa – 519-426-6060