In January 1989 the Ministry of Community and Social Services approved funding for an "umbrella" agency to plan, develop and coordinate the delivery of home support services for the frail elderly seniors in Haldimand and Norfolk. The strong origins of our Organization were in the communities of Delhi, Simcoe, Caledonia and Dunnville.

In June 1991, the Organization was officially incorporated and obtained charitable status. In the same year, provincial funding of HNCSSS was transferred to the Ministry of Health, Long Term Care Division. Today, HNCSSS is funded by the Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant Local Health Integration Network (LHINS).

Our main Administration office is in Simcoe at 230 Victoria St. with additional community-based offices in Simcoe, Caledonia, Dunnville and Hagersville, with Community Presence Offices in Delhi, Waterford and St. Williams.

Geographical area covers 2859 square kilometers, which is a slightly smaller than Rhode Island. With a rural population of 104,575 spread over 12 smaller communities, these counties have an increasing aging population and outstanding challenges specific to rural communities such as:

• Social and physical isolation
• Limited accessibility due to limited transportation options, rising fuel prices with a direct correlation to client fees, fewer local resources, and minimal access to medical/specialized services for seniors and people with disabilities

Additionally, with over 450 volunteers spread across this vast area, volunteers are integral to the health and sustainability of this organization.