LAURIE WEIR

Community Home Support Lanark County (CHSLC) has been a cornerstone of support for seniors, adults with physical disabilities, and individuals diagnosed with life-limiting illnesses for the past 35 years. Founded in 1989, CHSLC has grown from a grassroots organization with just one employee to a staff of 15, dedicated to helping clients remain in their homes and stay connected to their community.

The driving force behind CHSLC’s inception was Mary Anne Nicholson, whose passion for helping those in need led to the creation of the Meals on Wheels program. This service, initially brought to life by concerned neighbours, was the first of many offered by CHSLC. Today, the organization provides a range of services designed to improve the quality of life for its clients.

Since its incorporation, CHSLC has achieved several significant milestones. The hospice program, established in 1999, has been a critical component of the organization’s offerings, providing volunteer support to clients and their families. This program, along with the amalgamation with Community Home Support Services in Smiths Falls and Lanark between 1995 and 2006, has expanded CHSLC’s reach and impact.

More recently, CHSLC has introduced grief and bereavement groups to support individuals coping with loss. These groups, led by professionals, have already received positive feedback and high levels of interest from the community.

CHSLC offers a wide array of services, including:

• Assisted Transportation: Volunteers provide transportation to medical appointments, assisting clients as needed.
• Frozen Meals: A variety of meals made in-house, available for delivery or pickup.
• Footcare Clinics: Professional foot care is provided at clinics in Perth and Smiths Falls.
• Congregate Dining: Social programs with meals or snacks to keep seniors engaged.
• Home Help: Assistance with housekeeping, laundry, meal prep, and errands.
• Respite: In-home services by PSWs or companions, offering caregivers a much-needed break.

The hospice volunteer visiting program has significantly impacted by providing personal care, companionship, and respite for family members. This program not only supports the clients but also gives their families a chance to regroup and take care of their own needs.

CHSLC works closely with local healthcare providers, Ontario Health, at-home, and community agencies to ensure clients receive comprehensive care. This interdisciplinary approach allows for seamless integration of services, whether clients refer themselves or are referred by family members.

The services provided by CHSLC have profoundly affected clients and their families. CHSLC offers peace of mind for those without transportation with reliable rides to medical appointments. Families living out of town can rest assured that their loved ones are receiving nutritious meals and help with daily tasks. Social programs like Congregate Dining provide much-needed interaction for clients who might otherwise feel isolated.

CHSLC continues to engage the community with events such as the Butterfly Release on Aug. 28 at Stewart Park in Perth. Attendees will receive a butterfly to release, symbolizing grief and renewal, followed by a brief talk and refreshments.

Another notable event is the ATV charity run on Sept. 21 in Smiths Falls, organized by the Rideau Lake ATV Club, featuring a trail-side lunch and a silent auction.

As CHSLC moves forward, it faces challenges such as a decline in volunteers, exacerbated by changing demographics and the pandemic. The organization is actively seeking solutions to attract new volunteers, who are the heart and soul of CHSLC’s operations.

New initiatives include expanding grief and bereavement groups, with a new group starting in Smiths Falls on Sept. 18. Looking ahead, CHSLC aims to continue evolving to meet the needs of the community, ensuring that seniors and adults with disabilities can maintain their independence and quality of life.

Community members interested in volunteering or supporting CHSLC can contact the Perth office at 613-267-6400 or the Smiths Falls office at 613-283-6745. More information is available on their website (www.chslc.ca) and Facebook page.

CHSLC’s commitment to caring for the community remains as strong as ever, reflecting the organization’s enduring legacy of compassion and support.