KELOWNA — A fairly new not-for-profit organization is making its way across the country looking for outstanding caregivers. Canada Cares made a stop in Kelowna Tuesday to help spread its message and collect nominations for its care giving awards.
“Caregivers have traditionally been unrecognized both on the care giving side in a family as well as professional side. Care giving is hugely important. To envision a healthcare system without caregivers, without volunteers, is hard to imagine,” says Canada Cares volunteer Helmut Dostal.
The awards will recognize professional caregivers in a care home as well as family members who care for loved ones at home.
“Stats today say that one in four Canadians is in a care giving role in one form or another,” says Dostal.
The Canada Cares van is driving through the country stopping in more than 20 communities raising awareness about the organization and the awards.
“Many people after long periods of time, they suffer some burn out. They find that the role is under appreciated and taken for granted many times and even professional caregivers are finding themselves in a situation where they need relief and help’” says Dostal.
There will be five family caregivers awards and five professional caregivers awards handed out.
In addition, one Canadian will receive the top award which also includes a $10,000 prize. Deadlines for nominations are September 15th.
If you would like to nominate someone, you can do so on the Canada Cares website or by email to info@canadacares.org.
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