Stock photo: Pixabay
Sophie Gray
Local Journalism Initiative
The province is doubling this year’s funding for Family Caregivers of British Columbia to help support caregivers and seniors in the province.
The not-for-profit organization supports people providing care to elderly family members, family or friends through a network of local agencies, with the province giving them $1 million this year to help with the increased need for their services during the pandemic.
“This step to expand services builds on our commitment to support caregivers and is also a step to support the safety and wellness of seniors during this challenging time,” said Minister of Health Adrian Dix.
The funding will give Family Caregivers of B.C. the opportunity to expand on services like its helpline and provide virtual connections to bring families and caregivers together. This will help keep seniors at home.
Over one million people provide unpaid care for family members or friends in B.C., where 20 per cent of the population is age 65 or older. Strengthening support for caregivers improves their quality of life as well as that of seniors.
“We are here to help these incredible caregivers making sacrifices every day with emotional support, access to tools and resources, and to assist them to navigate our complex health system,” said Barb MacLean, executive director of Family Caregivers of B.C.
Caregivers, perspective volunteers and seniors can call 211 of 1 877 520-3267 to access these and other resources.
