Discover how we’re helping individuals & Family Caregivers thrive

Quality of Life is Our Purpose!

The Friends…Supporting Those with Long-Term Health Care Needs (commonly known as The Friends) is a community-based, social services agency funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health. We provide caregiving support to seniors living independently and adults 16+ with physical disabilities so they can maintain their independence. We’re here to make life a little easier, one visit at a time. Discover how we’re helping people maintain quality of life at home.

Who We Are

For more than 40 years, The Friends has served across the Districts of Parry Sound and Muskoka, Ontario, helping individuals and their family caregivers live with dignity, purpose, and connection. We are a not-for-profit, charitable organization with a dedicated team of caregivers, volunteers, and community partners that provides compassionate, reliable care, support and respite.

900+
Individuals Supported Each Year

Serving the Districts of Parry Sound and Muskoka

100+
Dedicated Staff and Volunteers

Bringing Care Home, With Heart.

Empowering Independent Living Across Parry Sound & Muskoka.

Core Services

In-Home Care

Our Home Care services help seniors and adults with physical disabilities live safely and comfortably in their own homes. We deliver flexible, in-home support: from Senior’s Homemaking assistance, to Assisted Living to Alzheimer’s Overnight programs. For adults with physical disabilities, our Outreach Program promotes independence at home with personalized assistance for daily living.

Caregiver & Community Support

We support both caregivers and those they care for. Our In-home Caregiver Respite provides relief for family caregivers at home and while our Adult Day Programs provide a welcoming space for social connection, activities, and companionship. The Friends also offers a Caregiver Support Program, offering guidance, education, and one-on-one support to those caring for a loved one at home.

Supportive Housing

The Friends provides supportive housing for adults with a permanent physical disability who want to live independently. We provide supportive housing service to clients residing at Oakwood Heights in Bracebridge Ontario. In Parry Sound, our Forest Hill Apartments remain one of the only fully accessible supportive housing options of its kind in the region, serving individuals and families across Parry Sound and Muskoka.

Transitional Care

Our Transitional Care programs provide short-term support for individuals leaving hospital or recovering from illness or injury. Through services like PATH and Home at Last (HAL), we help you get home and settle in safely, while our Transitions to Home respite stays and Post-Stroke Transitional Care Program offer additional support as you regain strength and independence.

Need Support?

If you or someone you care for needs assistance, our team is here. Referrals to The Friends may be received from the NE/NSM LHIN, local hospitals, Health Service Providers, Primary Care Professionals, Family and Self Referrals.

Referrals from community partners and information may be provided through the Caredove/HPG platforms. The client may participate in orientation visits prior to admission.

We’re Here for You
— Let’s Talk

Whether you’re seeking support or ready to give it, we’d love to hear from you. Our team is here to listen, answer your questions, and help you find the program or senior care services that’s right for you. Reach out today. Every conversation is the start of meaningful support and lasting connection.

Want to Make
a Difference?

Join our network of Independent Living Assistants across Muskoka and Parry Sound.

If you live in our service area, or are within reasonable commute, we want to hear from you!