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Wesway

Service Planning

At Wesway, we listen. We tailor our services and resources to meet the distinctive needs of each family we serve. We’re proud of our reputation for flexibility, diversity and innovation.

Based on eligibility, funding and other resources, we work in partnership with families to create personalized service plans built on individual strengths, needs and preferences. After service plans are approved, family caregivers are encouraged to arrange their periods of respite directly with their workers or volunteers.

No one can predict when an emergency might occur – a death, illness, or other extraordinary situation. We strive to support families through some of life’s most difficult respite care challenges. There are no fees for Wesway’s respite care services.
 

A Flexible Range of Respite Services

Host Families

After careful screening and matching, volunteer Host Families provide periods of respite by welcoming a child or adult with a disability into their home. The hosts include the individual in their family activities for a few hours, or an occasional overnight or a weekend.

Community Friends

Individuals with a disability are matched with carefully screened volunteers who share their time every week or two – or perhaps monthly. Together they enjoy a few hours of social or recreational activities in the community.

In-Home Service

When the needs of individuals are better met at home, trained Respite Workers carry out the care routines usually performed by the family caregiver. This type of service can occur regularly or variably. During a period of respite, our workers may assist participants in the enjoyment of various activities with a focus on their needs, interests and personal safety. If a family desires, periods of respite may take place outside of the home.

Respite Homes

A variety of respite services are available in Wesway’s comfortable home-like settings. With the support of trained Respite Workers, small groups of participants engage in daily life routines and enjoy social and recreational activities tailored to their interests.

Weekend Service:
48 hours, Friday to Sunday

Weekday Service:
48 hours, Sunday to Tuesday

Wesway may offer other respite opportunities during the week, including overnights.

Family-Directed Respite Funding

Wesway administers this type of respite for families living in communities throughout the District of Thunder Bay. Families decide how they would like to receive their respite service and Wesway pays for the associated costs. Detailed contracts are developed with families in accordance with clearly defined eligibility criteria and available resources. In limited circumstances, families within the City of Thunder Bay may be eligible for Family-Directed Respite Funding.

"I go out once a week with my volunteer on Tuesdays after school.  It is great because we go wherever we want – the Library, Chapters or the Future Shop.  I even met her family and tried new snacks!"

Wesway Participant

Wesway gratefully acknowledges the funding we receive from the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Community and Social Services/Ministry of Child and Youth Services.

210 – 1703 Victoria Avenue East,
Thunder Bay ON P7C 1C8

email:
phone: 807-623-2353
toll-free: 888-623-2353
fax: 807-623-6413