The Caregiver Resource Fairs held between 2003- 2008 celebrated and honoured caregivers by furthering the growth of public awareness about caregiving issues, promoting social, community and individual action and encouraging information sharing. The Fairs consisted of information booths representing dozens of public and private resources, and provided caregivers with an opportunity to find solutions to their daily challenges.

Caregiver Resource Fair 2008

The 2008 Caregiver Resource Fair, held on November 2, 2008 at Centre Mont-Royal, was an exciting event with a full program:

• A café-rencontre was set up where caregivers could exchange on various issues with the guidance and support of a professional.
• In addition to the informative workshops, several activities, including a latin dance demonstration, were be organized to provide caregivers with a chance to unwind, relax and have fun.
• In keeping with the theme “Promoting Caregivers’ Wellness”, a wellness centre complemented the regular reflexology service.
• A food concession stand had a variety of sandwiches, snacks and drinks available for purchase.
• Uniprix was the official sponsor of the 2008 event.

Caregiver Resource Fair 2007

The Caregiver Resource Fair 2007 was held on November 4 at the Centre Mont-Royal in downtown Montreal. Over 60 public and private exhibitors displayed their resources and services to the over 400 caregivers and professionals who attended. In addition, a National Film Board film premiere on caregiving was presented and individuals featured in the film were present to exchange with audience members and answer questions. An art exhibition featuring art by caregivers was displayed as well.

Ms. Marguerite Blais, Minister responsible for seniors, Mr. Russell Copeman, Parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Health and Social Services, and Ms. Francine Dupuis, Executive Director of the CSSS Cavendish, welcomed participants and provided opening remarks. Two days following the Fair, a resolution officially recognizing Caregivers’ Week was adopted in the Quebec National Assembly.

Feedback from the caregivers:
“I had no idea what services there were for me in Montreal. I have many friends who take care of their elderly spouses alone without any help, just like me. I learned a great deal today at the Fair and will come back every year.”

“Caring for a sick child is the most difficult thing any parent can ever have to do. Connecting with other caregivers and realizing that you are not alone is invaluable. Having all the services and resources available to me under one roof is unimaginable. I truly appreciate that this event is planned solely to benefit caregivers like me.”

Feedback from our exhibitors:
“It was a pleasure to participate in this year’s Caregiver Resource Fair. It was a very nice show – very well run and perfectly organized. We would be happy to participate next year.” (Slawner Ortho)

“This was my fourth time at the Caregiver Resource Fair and I enjoyed interacting with the participants and being able to offer help and resources for those in need. The population of caregivers is getting younger and they are more interested in being proactive and managing their caregiving. For this, they need to know all the resources and all the services available to them. The Fair is the perfect venue for that.” (Paraide International)