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Thank a Frontline Worker this Community Support Month

October is Community Support Month and PHARA, a local non-profit housing and independent living organization, is reminding people that this is a time to shine a spotlight on the vital role that frontline workers and volunteers play in maintaining the well-being of some of the most vulnerable members of society, including seniors. More than 20,000 employees and 100,000 volunteers provide crucial home and community care services throughout Ontario, working with charities and not-for-profit organizations.

“It is important to recognize the wonderful individuals that are providing essential home and community care services that enable many people to live independently and with dignity in their own homes,” said Mike Van der Vlist, PHARA CEO. “This includes a huge thank you to our entire team at PHARA for their amazing work. I have the privilege of seeing the difference they are making in the lives of others.”

“I can also say that not every day is easy, but every day is important. Our PSW’s, coordinators, and management team work with our clients and tenants to deliver the best possible service. We strive to empower every-body.”

PHARA is a member of the Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA), which 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.

“As Ontario's population grows older, the need for community support services is expected to rise,” said Van der Vlist. “We know that the services assist more than one million Ontarians annually, including seniors and individuals with disabilities. Investment into the sector will help to ensure that everyone has equitable and timely access to care.”

Over the course of October, messages of thanks and support are encouraged to be shared on the PHARA social media page such as Facebook @pharacharity. You can also submit an online thank you through their website and www.phara.org.

“We will share the thank you messages from the community we receive with our team,” said Van der Vlist. “We hope to hear from you!”

Additional

Personal Support Workers (PSWs) are essential healthcare providers who offer direct care to individuals who need assistance with daily living activities, particularly the elderly, people with disabilities, and those with chronic illnesses.

Personal Support Workers (PSWs) are essential healthcare providers who offer direct care to individuals who need assistance with daily living activities, particularly the elderly, people with disabilities, and those with chronic illnesses.

Andrew Tompsett