Over the past several months SIRCH Community Services has been busy preparing a new and innovative program entitled “Need a Hand.” The program was slated to begin in late June, but due to the emerging needs facing flood victims in the Haliburton Highlands, SIRCH has decided to begin now.
This new program is designed to provide:
1. A one-stop shop for anyone looking for basic home help services (one number to call);
2. Coordination of the tasks needed;
3. A quality, efficient, friendly service with reasonable fees, as well as subsidies for those who have difficulty paying.
“We want to support people affected by the flood,” stated Gena Robertson, Executive Director of SIRCH, “as well as others who have no family support nearby and may need a variety of small supports to make their lives easier. Finding someone to clean up, paint a wall, fix a broken step, install grab bars, or stay with their elderly parent or child to attend medical appointments, can create a lot of stress. We will match people who need things with volunteers who will do them.”
SIRCH is hoping to recruit many volunteers who are interested in donating 2 hours a month (or more) to help a neighbour. And they are sure the community will respond.
Because this is not a government funded program, there is an hourly fee for Need a Hand, however the fees paid by those who can afford it will be used, not only to support the program but to subsidize flood victims and others who can’t pay. Robertson is optimistic that people near and far will also purchase services on behalf of family members, friends or just as good citizens. “We are hopeful that we can help a lot of people who may not be able to afford the fees,” Robertson said, adding “We don’t want people to donate to us in lieu of donating to the Minden Disaster Relief effort. But if you have an extra $5 or $10 and can pass it on to SIRCH, or want to buy a couple of hours of help for someone affected, it will help us help residents right across the county.”
Individuals interested in becoming a part of this volunteer opportunity can participate simply by contacting the SIRCH offices at 705-457-1742, or emailing info@sirch.on.ca. A streamlined volunteer application process will make it quicker to become a SIRCH volunteer while still ensuring thorough screening.
Need a Hand will not be competing with established businesses as most of the services offered are typically too small for a construction/trades business or do not fall under the funded mandates of Community Service agencies. Need a Hand will refer people to local businesses, and will also direct people to other needed services and supports.
To Volunteer – call 705-457-1742 or email us at info@sirch.on.ca
To make a financial donation – go to Donate and Canada Helps
Need help? – call 705-457-1742 and leave a name and number where you can be reached
(Unfortunately SIRCH is not in a position to take donated items)
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