Volume 8 | MAY 2020
Latest news and resources from the Ontario Caregiver Organization
The Ontario Caregiver Organization (OCO) supports Ontario’s 3.3 million caregivers who provide physical and/or emotional support to a family member, partner, friend or neighbour.

Now, as we all face the unprecedented challenge of COVID-19, we’re here to help caregivers access information and support during this time of physical distancing. Caregiver wellness is an important discussion particularly as we recognize Mental Health Week beginning May 6 th . Read on to find out more about our COVID-specific tip sheets and our mental health and peer supports and join the conversation on social #mentalhealthweek #GetReal.  
Resources to help you during COVID-19
COVID-19 is having a profound impact on all of us, including caregivers and the people they support.

We’ve created tip sheets, online support groups and other resources to help you at this time and beyond.


From a starter kit for those new to caregiving, to tips for creating a backup care plan, to ideas on how to ensure the person you support remains socially engaged while physically distant and much more, our dedicated COVID page has valuable and practical information designed especially for caregivers.
New online #CaregivingCommunities portal connects those who need help to those who can provide it 
Across Ontario, people are rallying to support those who need help in their communities amid COVID-19, especially those who are most vulnerable.

Until now, there have been challenges connecting those who need help and with organizations available to provide it. To address this need the OCO created Caregiving Communities , an easy-to-use, free portal which connects people and organizations to ensure those who need help can find the support they need.    

Whether it’s a faith-based organization offering to pick up medication or a service club making friendly phone calls to seniors living alone, help is available! And for charities, non-profits and other organizations willing to help, the portal makes it easy to offer your help to those who need it most.

Search for or offer help with: grocery pick-up and delivery; delivery of prepared meals; medication pick-up and delivery; social support (e.g. friendly phone calls); accessing communication devices (e.g. a tablet); mental health support; and providing things to do like books, games and crosswords.

It’s easy to use! Simply visit www.ontariocaregiver.ca/caregivingcommunities ; select Find Support and follow the steps.  
Are you from a local charity, non-profit, service club and faith-based organization ready to help? Sign up on the portal by selecting Offer Support.
We’re all in this together.  
Ready to help you: Online programs, coaching and our 24/7 helpline 
Caregivers have told us that they benefit from connecting with peers and experts. We offer a range of ways to do just that, including:

SCALE : Six webinars facilitated by Leah Weisberg, RN and Michal Goldstein, MSW provide practical information and skills for managing your own well-being.

The SCALE program will be offered again beginning May 19, including optional small-group and/or 1:1 coaching. For more information, to register or watch previous webinars visit .

Online Support Groups: Join one of four friendly online caregiver support group sessions offered each week, including one dedicated to young caregivers. Connect with peers, share experiences and engage in helpful discussion facilitated by an OCO staff person. Register for free today here.

Helpline: Are you new to caregiving as a result of COVID-19. If you are looking for support in your community contact the Ontario Caregiver Helpline at 1-833-416-2273 (CARE) anytime or select Live Chat on the website on weekdays.
COMING SOON...
New resources, information and links are added to the OCO website every week! Bookmark it and visit often to catch all the latest tips, tools, videos and news designed for caregivers like you, and to connect with your peers and experts across Ontario.
Your turn
Our newsletter shares information about caregiving in Ontario, available supports and services and what we’re working on to enhance the caregiving experience. If you would like to contribute content to our newsletter or if you have story ideas, please contact us at  [email protected]
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