We propose an increase in the funding to our local Better at Home program, operated by Community Services, to allow for the hiring of additional housekeeping staff.

Low-income seniors in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows are currently waiting upwards of nine weeks in order to receive affordable housekeeping services. Many of these individuals struggle with mobility challenges and/or disabilities that make support with general housekeeping critical to being able to live in our own homes. I, Renee Spakowsky have experienced being bumped for housekeeping services three times in the past eight months - leaving me with dirty linens and floors and no help available.

The local Seniors Resource Guide highlights more than eight private home care companies that charge over $60 for two hours of cleaning, which is well beyond the means of many seniors. I understand Community Services currently has a waitlist of over 20 people which means a client can only receive housekeeping services, once every three weeks. Subsidized home care is vital for the independent living of seniors and we count on its routine dependability and excellent service.

Please consider increasing the funding to the Better at Home program in Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows to allow for the hiring of additional housekeeping staff to meet the community's needs.