April 2, 2013
Statement on the Observance of Caregiver Recognition Day by Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau
Manitoba is celebrating its second annual Caregiver Recognition Day to honour the valuable contributions of all caregivers in our province. We are the only jurisdiction in Canada to have a Caregiver Recognition Act and a legislated day that recognizes and celebrates the contributions of informal caregivers.
A growing number of people are providing voluntary, unpaid care for their loved ones so they can remain in their communities for as long as possible. The Manitoba government recognizes their valuable contributions and encourages all Manitobans to take the time to acknowledge the caregivers in their homes, workplaces and communities.
The Manitoba government supports caregivers through its Caregiver Advisory Committee and the Primary Caregiver Tax Credit, which allows caregivers from all income levels to claim up to $1,275 per year for each person for whom care is provided, to a maximum of three people. Additional support programs and services include the Manitoba Home Care Program, the oldest comprehensive, provincewide, universal home care program in Canada, and the Support Services to Seniors Program, which offers community-based programs for seniors that promote health and well-being, and assist seniors to continue to live in the community.
Today is also an opportunity for caregivers to network, celebrate achievements and access information about various resources. This year, more than 20 organizations and government departments will showcase caregiver programs and supports at an event at Manitoba Hydro Place, 360 Portage Ave. until 2 p.m. Members of the public are invited to attend.
The Manitoba government is focused on promoting healthy lifestyles and wellness across the lifespan to build a healthier Manitoba. The Age-Friendly Manitoba Initiative, led by the Seniors and Healthy Aging Secretariat, supports people of all ages and abilities to lead active, socially engaged, independent lives. Caregivers are an important partner in creating age-friendly communities.
For more information about Caregiver Recognition Day and resources available to caregivers, contact the Seniors and Healthy Aging Secretariat at 204-945-6565 in Winnipeg, 1-800-665-6565 (toll-free) or www.gov.mb.ca/shas.
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