ONE CARE raises over $22K during Steps for Seniors

Walkers lead the charge, banner and all, at the ONE CARE Steps for Seniors event on June 13. As of press time, $22,431 has been raised for the regional organization.

ONE CARE Home & Community Support Services held their annual walkathon on Sat. June 13 at Market Square.

The family fun event brought together participants of all ages to walk in support of the organization’s Driven to Care Campaign.

Together, the community raised $22,431 (as of press time). Funds raised through the event will help support transportation services for older adults and people living with health challenges across Huron and Perth Counties.

Through the Driven to Care Campaign, ONE CARE is able to continue to support and advocate for the growing need for accessible and reliable transportation throughout the region by purchasing more vehicles for their every changing fleet.

With the upgrade in transportation, they can continue to help clients attend medical appointments, access essential services, and remaining connected to their communities.

“Transportation is more than simply getting from one place to another – it’s about autonomy, dignity and connection,” said Stephanie Ellens-Clark, executive director of ONE CARE. “Every step taken during these walkathons helps ensure older adults within our neighbourhoods can continue to live safely and independently.”

ONE CARE’s goal is to raise $500,000 through the campaign, which launched in March 2025, and Ellens-Clark says the community's support is crucial if they want to reach that goal.

“We do receive contract funding from the government, which we are very grateful for, but that only covers part of our costs,” she said. “Otherwise, we have to fundraise. We also have some fees for services like meals on wheels and transportation, but several of our clients can’t afford the service fees, so we also can use some of the funding for that.”

The organization has already purchased three vehicles and aims to buy more, including a large bus. They also collaborate with other agencies for easy ride transportation.

“We're figuring it's going to take another year or so to get to our goal, but it's just been amazing that we've gotten this far,” said Ellens-Clark. “The community has really responded, and for that, we’re so thankful.”

ONE CARE continues to support local communities by providing vital transportation and services to older adults across the region and is always focused on working with clients and the community to combat loneliness and continue to provide vital services.

"ONE CARE is a vital support and service,” said Ellens-Clark. “When you think of all those amazing community members who would prefer to stay in their own homes for as long as they can, it really means independence and dignity. If you can stay in your own home and still have those supports, or if you can come out to wellness programs that keep you healthy, or social programs that also keep you healthy – because we know social isolation is rampant and can be devastating for people – it really improves your quality of life. It gives us the opportunity to support our community and wrap around those folks when they need that support."

Donations for the Steps for Seniors event will be accepted until the end of June. To donate, visit https://steps-for-seniors.raiselysite.com/donate.