Nearly $100,000 in provincial funding is helping those living with dementia in Chatham-Kent.
The Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent (ASCK) was recently granted $99,900 in funding for its community-based First Link Care Navigation program.
The First Link program is a partnership between the Alzheimer Society, local physicians, and allied health care professionals, providing support services such as one-on-one and family counselling, tips for navigating the health system, and links to other health and social service providers.
“This funding has been key to alleviating wait times for those individuals in this community needing dementia-specific supports and services,” said Brandon Ball, ASCK CEO in a news release. “We have been able to hire an additional registered social worker to provide in-home/in-office supports, which has allowed us to expand our services to meet the ever-increasing demand in Chatham-Kent.”
This funding is part of the Ontario government’s $6.9 million investment over two years to support those who have received a dementia diagnosis on their care journey. Funding will support hiring an additional 36 full-time equivalent staff members, shortening wait times for existing patients and providing support for approximately 7,000 new clients across Ontario.
“This important investment by the Ontario government is a significant step forward in supporting individuals and families living with dementia across our province,” said Trevor Jones, MPP Chatham-Kent-Leamington. “By expanding care teams and reducing wait times, we are ensuring that those who need assistance most will receive timely, comprehensive support.”