Community Health Services in Canada
The Canadian Red Cross is a leader in supporting Canadians to remain living in their homes safely and with dignity through innovative and compassionate community health services. Canadian Red Cross Community Health Services are focused on non-acute interventions that are proactive and solution-based to meet the changing needs of Canadians who wish to stay at home as long as possible. Our services are focused on promoting wellness and social inclusion, and we strive to look holistically at not only the needs of our clients, but also their family and caregivers. In our ongoing efforts to proactively meet the needs of the communities we serve all across Canada, we are constantly innovating and seeking out new partnerships that will improve access and coordination of our community health offerings.
Community Support Services
A wide range of community support services are offered by the Red Cross throughout Canada to provide daily supports to older adults, vulnerable people, and their caregivers. We support our clients as they strive to maintain their quality of life and independence, and when possible support their active participation in society. Many of our Community Support Services are delivered with the support of our team of dedicated staff and volunteers who are highly skilled in the delivery of services such as adult day programs, attendant services for persons with physical disabilities, Meals on Wheels, supportive housing, transportation and many others. Find information about community support services in your area.
Health Equipment Loan Program
The Canadian Red Cross Health Equipment Loan Program offers mobility, independence and safety to seniors and those recovering from illness or surgery in their own homes.
We also accept donations of health equipment in many locations across Canada. The Canadian Red Cross will then disinfect and repair these items so that they can be re-used through our equipment loan programs – a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach to increase access to much needed health equipment. Learn more about our equipment donation program and the type of equipment we can accept.
Friendly Calls 
The Friendly Calls program aims to enhance social connectedness and well-being, with a focus on reaching older adults, Indigenous peoples, frontline workers, parents, caregivers and anyone who may benefit from increased access to regular emotional support, social interaction, enhanced coping skills and community connections to other existing support.
This safe, accessible, and free program matches people over the age of 18 with trained Red Cross personnel who connect with them regularly as part of a commitment to care for people’s overall well-being and to help develop resilience.
At Canadian Red Cross, we believe in the power of human connection. When we nurture connection, we reduce stress, decrease anxiety, increase our vitality and our overall well-being.
Community Initiatives
Many unique offerings to support seniors are available in the communities we serve. Services range from community kitchens to community gardens and more. Check the programs specific to your province to find out what is available in your area.