April 27, 2007 – Ontario March of Dimes along with eleven other community-based organizations launched the Ontario Community Service Sector Coalition two days ago at Queen’s Park.  Speaking to MPPs, the coalition of 12 provincial providers and associations that represent the Community Support Service transfer payment agencies funded by the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, introduced their newly formed collective voice while addressing the increasing needs of communities and benefits of early investment.

As part of a continuum of health care, the OCSSC will work on cross-sectoral issues that impact community-based services and supports.  By developing a co-operative environment the new coalition aims to promote improved communication between the OCSSC, Local Health Integration Networks and the Minister of Health and Long Term Care.

“Community Services have always connected to find innovative solutions in service delivery.  The time is now for a collective network to come together and improve access to services for all of Ontarians,” says Susan Thorning, Co-Chair of the OCSSC.

Current issues that the OCSSC will address include the almost 80% of Ontarians over the age of 45 with chronic conditions and the increasing need for homecare services, especially as the number of people over 65 increases.  The group will also work to ensure supports for the nearly 20% of people who will experience a mental illness, and those who suffer from addictions and other risk behaviours.

The OCSSC hopes that improved communication at both the agency and governmental levels will result in hospitals and ERs being able to discharge patients earlier and transition them into local support services, alleviating some of the burden on family caregivers, and allowing them to stay in the workforce.  People with disabilities will be able to live with greater independence and dignity in their communities.

Members of the Ontario Community Service Sector Coalition include:

• Addictions Ontario
• Alzheimer Society of Ontario
• Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario
• CNIB
• Canadian Paraplegic Association Ontario
• Hospice Association of Ontario
• Independent Living Service Providers
• Directors’ Network of Community-Based ABI Providers in Ontario
• Ontario Community Support Association
• Ontario Federation of Community Mental Health and Addiction Programs
• Ontario March of Dimes
• The Canadian Hearing Society

Community members are invited to assist the OCSSC by contacting their Party leaders and encouraging them to commit to adequately resourced community services.  Connecting to a local member of the Community Service Sector Coalition will help people to learn about the unique needs and services in their communities.

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For more information contact:

Lee Harding
Director of Independent Living Services
ONTARIO MARCH OF DIMES
Provincial Office
10 Overlea Blvd.
Toronto, ON M4H 1A4
Tel: 416-425-3463 ext. 7208
Toll-free: 1-800-263-3463 ext. 7208
Fax: 416-425-1920
lharding@dimes.on.ca