Allyson Beauregard
MRC PONTIAC – On June 8, L’Appui Outaouais awarded an additional $426,988 to five Outaouais organizations that provide services and support for senior caregivers. Of that, $95,588 was given to two organizations to expand
Allyson Beauregard
MRC PONTIAC – On June 8, L’Appui Outaouais awarded an additional $426,988 to five Outaouais organizations that provide services and support for senior caregivers. Of that, $95,588 was given to two organizations to expand
their services within the MRC Pontiac: the Connexions Resource Centre and the Outaouais Alzheimer Society (SAOQ) operating out of the CLSC in Shawville.
Connexions will use their $64,800 to develop a network of volunteers who, after
training, will identify senior caregivers and refer them to Connexions so they can be directed to services available and identify when they are may be reaching burnout. “They will be spreading the word about our organization to the people who need it
the most,” said Danielle Lanyi, Connexions Executive Director.
Lanyi said the organization will also increase their collaboration with community organizations offering services such as the SAOQ.
According to Anne Villeneuve, Outaouais Alzheimer Society Directer General, the funding will allow the Shawville centre to remain open and offer caregivers more than 300 hours of respite with their day centre. Those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other related diseases can attend the day centre to socialize and participate in a variety of activities on Mondays from 9 am to 3 pm for $13, which includes lunch and snacks. The SAOQ will also offer specialized training to better equip and facilitate the lives of those caring for people suffering from Alzheimer’s or related diseases. The services can be accessed by calling 877-777-0888.
While the funding was only awarded for one year, according to Lanyi, Connexions will continue to develop their new program. “The foundation for the program will already be built, so it can be continued with fewer funds,” she said. Connexions mandate is to respond to the health and social service needs of the English speaking population in West Quebec by providing information and referrals, developing and offering health promotion programs and activities and collaborating with public and community partners to improve access to services; they can be reached at 819-777-3206.
