Trillium Foundation helps Respite Services

WINDSOR-ESSEX – In 2021, Family Respite Services Windsor Essex received a $62,900 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to help the organization rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19.

With this support, Family Respite Services has adapted its program delivery and purchased equipment to continue serving the families of children with disabilities throughout the pandemic.

“The pandemic put enormous strain on families in our community, not least those served by the people of Family Respite Services Windsor Essex,” said Lisa Gretzky MPP Windsor West. “It was entirely fitting that this wonderful organization should receive a Resilient Communities Fund grant allowing them to continue providing the essential services families need.”

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on Ontario’s non-profit sector. Family Respite Services has faced many challenges in supporting over 1200 children and their families in Windsor and Essex County, including the need to adapt program delivery, overcome financial barriers, and address health and safety requirements. COVID has also impacted the families of children with disabilities, who have needed access to essential respite and direct support.

Funding from OTF enabled Family Respite Services to adapt to the ever-changing pandemic and continue providing creative supports. Working with consultants from People Minded Business, Family Respite Services consulted with families and community partners to build resilient and flexible supports and design service delivery models that continue to evolve and meet their unique needs. OTF Funding also supported the purchase of new equipment to support health and safety, including wipeable outdoor tables and a second medical bed and lift.

“Family Respite Services continues to face many challenges, including the need to adapt program and service delivery, generate revenue, and address health and safety requirements,” said Alexandria Fischer, Community Relations – Family Respite Services. “The funding helped to remove barriers for respite supports for families. We thank the Ontario Trillium Foundation for enabling us to review and research our current programs and services and to have funding to support our new work plan as we continue to work alongside 1,200 families caring for children with disabilities in our community.”