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Spring has arrived, bringing with it an invigorated sense of energy. We recognize the shared themes of renewal, hope, light over dark, freedom and new beginnings reflected across many traditions- including Nowruz, Passover, Easter,
Holi, and other seasonal observances celebrated within our diverse client community. We extend our warmest wishes to all who are marking a meaningful moment at this time of year, and we hope the season brings you joy, reflection, and fresh possibilities.
Most fitting for this time of new beginnings was CHATS’ celebration officially opening CIBPA Place on March 17th.
As York Region’s first not-for-profit overnight residential care centre for persons with dementia, this much-needed respite home with provide a safe, engaging home for clients needing a short stay, with providing their caregivers the relief they need to recharge their own energy and wellbeing.
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The opening of CIBPA Place ushers in a significant new milestone in CHATS’ history, further reinforcing our commitment to being innovative, forward-thinking and dedicated to ensuring that we are responding the changing needs of the persons we serve.
We are thankful to our Board for their support and willingness to take this important step, and to our staff who have embraced the challenge of launching something new with passion and determination.
| | Last but not least, we are grateful to our partner Care As One, who rallied a community to turn an 1860s heritage home into a place of care of which we can all be proud. | | I am pleased to share that CHATS has expanded the Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORC) program with the launch of two new locations this month -Founders Place in Newmarket and Lakeside Residences in Keswick. These new locations mark an important step forward in our commitment to supporting older adults to age well and independently in the communities they call home. By bringing community-led programming, social connection, and responsive supports directly to where people live, we continue to strengthen vibrant, caring communities that reflect the needs and voices of their residents. | | Raising awareness of issues affecting aging in our community through our podcast series, continues to be a CHATS priority. In March, we were pleased to welcome Dr. Howard Abrams, Director or OpenLab, University Health Network, to discuss “Local Leadership, Lasting Impact: Strengthening NORCs Across Ontario.” In April, we look forward to sharing a new episode featuring Rose Patodia, Board-Certified Geriatric Pharmacist and Certified Diabetes Educator, who will speak about the vital role pharmacists play in helping older adults age safely at home. Link for March podcast here | |
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to building a stronger, healthier community together.
With gratitude,
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Christina Bisanz CEO
CHATS – Community & Home Assistance to Seniors
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Program Spotlight: Home & Adaptation Maintenance Program (HAMP)
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CHATS Home Adaptation & Maintenance Program helps to improve the physical safety of your home with the addition of handrails, grab bars, and other minor home adaptations.
Regular maintenance such as spring cleanups, lawn maintenance and snow clearing are also available, using screened and insured service providers.
Service includes a Free In-Home Safety Assessment - where recommendations to help improve your quality of life and safety at home are provided.
Based out of CHATS’ Bradford office, this program has proudly helped over 2,100 clients in Northern York Region and South Simcoe age safely in their own homes.
To learn more, click the Learn More link below.
| | Carefirst Seniors Young At Heart Gala | | |
Congratulations to Carefirst!
Carefirst's 2026 Young at Heart Gala celebrated with community marking 50 years of caring, compassion, and community impact. CHATS CEO Christina Bisanz and CHATS Board Chair Avijeet Parmar attended the Young At Heart Charity Gala this past weekend.
Photos can be viewed below by clicking on the View Photos Here link.
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CHATS CEO Christina Bisanz Responds to Ontario Budget: Progress Recognized, Pressures Remain for Community-Based Care
As demand for home and community care continues to rise, CHATS – Community & Home Assistance to Seniors is encouraged by the Ontario government’s ongoing investment, while reinforcing that more must be done to keep pace with growing need.
“Across York Region and South Simcoe, we are seeing more seniors relying on community-based supports to live safely and independently at home,” said Christina Bisanz, Chief Executive Officer of CHATS. “While this investment is a positive step, demand continues to outpace available resources.”
With seniors living longer and often with more complex needs, community organizations are also facing workforce shortages, rising operating costs, and increased service pressures. These challenges underscore the importance of stable, sustained funding for home and community-based supports.
CHATS sees a clear opportunity to strengthen the system through expanded community care models, better integration with primary care, and continued investment in caregivers.
CHATS remains committed to working with partners to ensure seniors can live well at home.
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Welcome to "CHAT About Aging In Your Community" Podcast!
Through insightful interviews, expert discussions, and real-life stories, we'll empower you to embrace aging with grace and vitality.
| | If you missed our March podcast, we welcomed Dr. Howard Abrams, Director of OpenLab, University Health Network, and NORC Innovation Centre to discuss "Local Leadership, Lasting Impact: Strengthening NORCs Across Ontario." This was a very informative episode, please click on the listen now link below. | |
New Episode Coming Soon in April
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In April's episode of Let’s CHAT About Aging in Our Community, we sit down with Board-Certified Geriatric Pharmacist and Certified Diabetes Educator, Rose Patodia, to explore the critical role pharmacists play in helping older adults age safely at home.
We look forward to you listening to this important episode.
| | Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform and join the conversation about creating communities where everyone can truly thrive. | | Bubbles & Smiles: La Dolce Vita – A Taste of Italy- SOLD OUT | | Bubbles & Smiles: La Dolce Vita – A Taste of Italy is SOLD OUT! | | Visit Us At The Aurora Home Show April 11 & 12th | |
Meet Aurora’s Not-for-Profit of the Year and Community Builder Sponsor, CHATS-Community & Home Assistance to Seniors, at the Home & Lifestyle Show.
Learn more about our programs, services, and how you can support this award-winning organization in your community.
Saturday, April 11: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday, April 12: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex
1400 Wellington St. E., Aurora, ON
About the Aurora Home & Lifestyle Show
York Region’s longest-running Home Show returns with a weekend full of inspiration.
To learn more and to enjoy the Aurora Home & Living Show video, please click on the learn more link below.
| Upcoming Signature Events | |
Save the Date
Swing For Seniors- July 6, 2026, Lebovic Golf Club
Tim Jones Charity Golf Classic- September 10, 2026, Lebovic Golf Club
The Amazing Adventure- October 18, 2026
Holiday Home Auction- November 25 to December 1, 2026
If you would like to get involved by sponsoring or donating a prize or auction item, please contact Mona Shaher by email at mshaher@chats.on.ca
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