Community Support Services
The Community Support Services department at North Shore Health Network (NSHN) offers a wide range of essential programs and services designed to help people live safely, independently, and with dignity in their own homes and communities. We proudly support: older adults, individuals living with disabilities, those with chronic or life-limiting illnesses, and others who may benefit from additional assistance to maintain their health, well-being, and independence.
Our compassionate team of Personal Support Workers (PSWs), Program Coordinators, and dedicated volunteers work together to deliver person-centred care that enhances quality of life and helps individuals remain connected to the communities they call home.
CSS Client Bill of Rights
Under the rights outlined in Section 9(1) of Ontario Regulation 187/22 under the Connecting Care Act, 2019, CSS must post and follow the Client Bill of Rights.
CSS Programs & Services
ASSISTED LIVING SERVICES
Personal Support Workers (PSWs) deliver a range of essential supports for everyday living that promote independence and quality of life of seniors over the age of 60.
These supports include:
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personal care, grooming/showers,
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help with routine housekeeping,
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medication reminders,
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assistance with exercises and support with mobility
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menu planning, grocery shopping, and meal preparation,
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support arranging transportation,
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support with errands,
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support with appointments (foot clinic, medical, dental, grocery shopping),
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friendly calls and socialization.
Ontario Health atHome
To apply for Assisted Living Services, clients and/or family members must first contact Ontario
Health atHome (OHaH). Anyone can make a referral to OHaH on your behalf with your consent:
a family doctor, friend, family member, caregiver, neighbour.
There are no costs for these services.
Call OHaH at 310-2222 (no area code required).
MEALS ON WHEELS
The Meals on Wheels program helps individuals maintain their independence by providing home delivery of affordable, hot, nutritious meals.
Whether you're recovering from an illness, managing a chronic condition, or simply finding meal preparation difficult, we're here to help.
Our friendly volunteers deliver meals three (3) days a week - Monday, Wednesday, and Friday - and also provide a reassuring check-in and a familiar face.
For more information:
(705) 356-2265
ext. 2450 or 2455
MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION
The Medical Transportation Services program helps community members access the healthcare they need by providing safe, reliable transportation to out-of-town medical appointments. This service is available to individuals of all ages living in communities from Spanish to Thessalon.
Transportation is provided by our dedicated volunteer drivers, whose generosity and commitment make this program possible. Because the program relies on volunteers, rides are scheduled based on driver availability. We encourage booking appointments as far in advance as possible to help us coordinate transportation and accommodate requests.
For more information:
(705) 356-2265
ext. 2450 or 2455
CONGREGATE DINING EVENTS
Are you 65+ and living in the Blind River area?
Looking for a chance to connect with others, enjoy a delicious meal, and be entertained? Held every other month, our Congregate Dining events are designed to promote healthy eating, encourage social connections, and reduce isolation among older adults.
Congregate Dining events offer:
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a nutritious, home-style meal
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live music or entertainment
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opportunities to socialize and build new friendships
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a welcoming and accessible environment
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a fun outing that supports healthy aging and overall well-being
Each event features a freshly prepared meal, live entertainment, and an opportunity to meet new people and reconnect with friends in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Whether you're coming on your own or with a friend, you'll be welcomed into a fun and inclusive environment where conversation, laughter, and community are always on the menu.
To attend, please contact Community Support Services to register. Registration is required for each event and helps us plan for meals and seating:
(705) 356-2265
ext. 2450 or 2455
HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE CARE VISITING VOLUNTEERS
Our Hospice & Palliative Care Visiting Volunteers program provides compassionate, person-centred support to individuals living with a life-limiting illness and the people who care about them. Our goal is to enhance quality of life by addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs with dignity, comfort, and respect. Support is available whether you or your loved one is receiving care:
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at home
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in Long-Term Care
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in hospital
Our specially trained volunteers are thoughtfully matched with individuals and families based on their needs, interests, and preferences. Through regular visits, they provide companionship, emotional support, respite for care partners, and a comforting presence during life's journey.
For more information:
(705) 356-2265
ext. 2657
PEER-TO-PEER GRIEF SUPPORT
Grief can be a difficult and deeply personal journey, but you don't have to walk it alone. Our Peer-to-Peer Grief Support program provides a safe, welcoming space where individuals who have experienced the loss of a loved one within the past 3 to 6 months can connect with others, share their experiences, and find understanding, comfort, and hope together.
This 8-week support group is facilitated by trained volunteers and uses “Understanding Your Grief: Ten Essential Touchstones for Finding Hope and Healing Your Heart” by Dr. Alan Wolfelt - along with its companion journal - to encourage reflection, discussion, and healing.
Participants have the opportunity to:
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share their experiences in a supportive, confidential environment
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connect with others who understand the challenges of grief
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learn healthy ways to cope with loss
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foster emotional well-being and reduce feelings of isolation
NOTE: Please note that this program is a peer support service, not professional counselling or therapy. While our volunteers provide compassionate guidance and companionship, they do not offer clinical assessments, treatment, or advice.
For more information:
(705) 356-2265
ext. 2657
HELPLINE & LIFELINE REFERRALS
Staying safe and independent at home is important at every stage of life. The Community Support Services department works with trusted partners to connect individuals and families with personal emergency response systems and other supportive technologies designed to provide peace of mind.
We work closely with Helpline and Lifeline, two (2) organizations that offer a variety of safety solutions, including emergency response buttons, fall detection options, and automatic medication dispensers. These services can help individuals access support when they need it most while providing reassurance to family members and care partners.
Whether you are looking to enhance your own safety or support a loved one who wishes to remain independent at home, our team can help you explore options that best meet your needs.
For more information:
(705) 356-2265
ext. 2450 or 2455
