A trio of senior living providers with locations in Peel have teamed up to provide $2 million in emergency funding for sector workers across the country. Announced Monday, the Senior Living Cares Fund will create access to emergency financial support for workers in the senior living sector in recognition of their extraordinary efforts during COVID-19.
The fund will provide one-time financial assistance up to $10,000 to Canadian employees of senior living operators who work in either long-term care or retirement for emergency or unforeseen expenses. The Cares Fund is aimed at providing emergency relief in recognition of the extraordinary effort of senior living sector employees in the face of COVID-19. Inspired by this dedication amidst the pandemic crisis, Chartwell Retirement Residences, Revera Inc., Extendicare and Sienna Seniors Living mobilized together to launch the initiative, and create a legacy that will continue to recognize the dedication of employees in the sector for years to come.
“I am in awe of the courage and character of employees of Canada’s senior living sector during this challenging time. I have visited many senior living residences and I’m always inspired by the care and compassion of the staff,” said former Mississauga Mayor and current Chief Elder Officer of Revera, Hazel McCallion. “I meet employees who have worked in the sector for 30 years or more and they do it because they love their job and the people they are serving.
I am thrilled to see the sector come together to launch The CaRES Fund to support workers who are experiencing hardship during this pandemic.” The CaRES Fund intends to continue its legacy post- COVID-19 through the establishment of a foundation aimed at continuing emergency funding and providing support to employees or their family members to pursue higher education or training. As the initiative grows in size, and future contributors,
it will always be rooted in the history of COVID-19 so that Canadians will never forget the heroic contributions of senior living sector employees. All senior living employees, regardless of their employer, are invited to apply and can find out more information about the fund and the application process can be found at seniorlivingcares.ca.
