FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Feb 24, 2016

Toronto, ON – Wanda Morris, VP of Advocacy for CARP will be listening closely when Minister Charles Sousa tables the Ontario budget at Queen’s Park this Thursday, February 25, 2016.

Morris will be present at Queen’s Park in the budget lock-up on CARP’s behalf, and anticipates a budget that will improve the lives of aging Ontarians, especially with investments in home and community care.

“Many older Ontarians want to see the province reduce its deficit but not on the their backs. CARP members are concerned that there are still many Ontarians who are struggling to get access to home and community care, as well as the supports and services to help them age in place and stay engaged in their communities. As a result, CARP members will be watching to see if the budget will prioritize their needs and concerns, “said Morris.

Over the past few years, the Ontario government has taken steps to improve home and community care in Ontario. Most recently, the government released Patient First: Proposal to Strengthen-Centered Health Care in Ontario, a report outlining a plan to provide patients better access to care regardless of where they live. However, few Ontarians have yet to experience better access and more hours of home and community care. CARP will continue to monitor government action in this area.

CARP is Canada’s largest national, non-partisan, non-profit organization advocating for improved healthcare and financial security for Canadians as we age.  CARP’s advocacy work is supported by 300,000 members and a network of 60 chapters across Canada.