Inclusion
Collaboration
Creativity
Accountability
We have been serving Francophones in the Greater Toronto Area for over 45 years. We are proud of our achievements and more confident than ever in the relevance and strength of our model. Our approach is based on the following pillars:
Affordable housing with support services
Home care services
Personalized support to navigate the healthcare system
A dedicated program for Francophones living with dementia and their caregivers
An Active Living Centre to stay connected, reduce isolation, and thrive in French
OUR MISSION
OUR VALUES
OUR VISION
OUR CLIENTS
- Seniors wishing to remain at home, supported by our team to maximize their physical, cognitive, and social abilities and fully enjoy life.
- People aged 59+ seeking affordable housing in a Francophone environment.
- People aged 55+ looking to meet other Francophones to socialize, learn, and share meaningful moments.
- Caregivers, family members, friends, and loved ones seeking information, support, and respite to continue caring for their loved ones.
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CAH (Centres d’Accueil Héritage) was founded in the late 1970s, when Simone Lantaigne identified a lack of French-language services for Francophone seniors in Toronto and launched the Accueil Médical Francophone in 1980.
That same year, construction began on Place Saint-Laurent, with the first residents moving in in 1982, fulfilling her vision of a safe, Francophone living environment.
Over the years, CAH strengthened its mission with an official Francophone mandate in 2008, the launch of the Oshawa Day Program in 2014, and the opening of a transitional care unit in 2018. That same year, the organization also received Accreditation with Honours from Accreditation Canada.
From its modest beginnings to its central role in the Francophone Toronto community, CAH remains committed to its mission: offering seniors a safe, inclusive, and fully Francophone living environment.
Proud of our journey
There have been many changes over the years.
A look at our evolution over time:
Sacré-Coeur
After Sunday mass, in a corner of the Sacré-Coeur parish hall, Simone Lantaigne helps seniors fill out either tax returns or forms. In doing so, she identifies more pressing needs.
Accueil Médical Francophone
In the summer of 1980, Simone Lantaigne launched the Accueil Médical Francophone, aimed at Francophone individuals seeking care while in Toronto. Transferred in 1985, this service became the foundation of the Toronto Community Health Centre, which merged with the Francophone Centre in 2004.
Place Saint-Laurent
Construction of Place Saint-Laurent (PSL) officially began on May 2, 1980. On June 5, a reception marked the blessing of the cornerstone, located to the left of the main entrance.
First tenants
The first apartments
of the 135-unit complex, built at a cost of $7 million, were rented as early as January 1982, before construction was even completed. The first tenants moved in at the beginning of 1982.
In October 1982, Simone Lantaigne passed away, a great visionary whose dream continues.
Francophone designation
CAH submitted a request to the City of Toronto for an official Francophone mandate to protect its right to prioritize Francophone residents at Place Saint-Laurent. This designation was granted in 2008.
Oshawa Day Program (SDJ)
The Oshawa Day Program was launched on March 25. Initially offered two days per week, it later received funding for a third weekly day in 2018.
Accreditation Canada
CAH’s service quality was recognized at the highest standards through Accreditation Canada’s second-stage accreditation in 2018.
Transitional Unit
The new transitional unit is a key part of the Francophone care continuum and a natural extension of efforts to ensure the well-being of Francophone seniors.
Vaccination clinic
In November 2023, CAH held its most recent flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinic. Overall pandemic outcome? The CAH model has proven effective: there were no COVID-19 outbreaks at Place Saint-Laurent.
Client Testimonials
“…I now receive home support services from CAH to assist me. It was truly needed. Without CAH, I had no voice to make myself heard…”
Client of the Active Living Centre
Client Testimonials
“I was hesitant at first, and I wasn’t sure how I would like it or how it would be for me, especially as an older man…”
Client of the CAH Oshawa Adult Day Program
Client Testimonials
“…I now receive home support services from CAH to assist me. It was truly needed. Without CAH, I had no voice to make myself heard…”
Client of the Active Living Centre
Client Testimonials
“I was hesitant at first, and I wasn’t sure how I would like it or how it would be for me, especially as an older man…”
Client of the CAH Oshawa Adult Day Program
Do you have questions about CAH services, resources, or initiatives for caregivers and Francophone seniors in the Greater Toronto Area?
This section brings together answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you quickly find the information you need.
1. What types of services does CAH offer to Francophone seniors in the Greater Toronto Area?
CAH offers affordable housing with support services, home care assistance, help navigating the healthcare system, a program for Francophones living with dementia, and an Active Living Centre offering social and community activities.
2. Who is eligible for CAH affordable housing?
Housing is primarily intended for autonomous or semi-autonomous Francophone seniors living in the Greater Toronto Area. Eligibility criteria apply, and spaces are limited.
3. How does CAH home care work?
Our staff travel within the community to provide personalized support (shopping, meals, accompaniment, safety checks, etc.). Services are tailored to each individual’s needs.
4. Do you offer support for caregivers?
Yes. CAH supports caregivers through resources, referrals, respite activities, and a specialized program for families affected by dementia.
5. What is the program for Francophones living with dementia?
We offer a Francophone community program focused on stimulation, socialization, and family support. It aims to help participants remain active and engaged in a welcoming and safe environment.
6. Are Active Living Centre activities open to everyone?
Yes. Our social, cultural, educational, and wellness activities are open to all Francophone seniors in the Greater Toronto Area, whether or not they are CAH residents.
7. How can I register for activities or programs?
You can consult our online calendar, call the front desk, or contact our team by email. Some activities can also be registered for directly through our website
8. Can I become a volunteer at CAH?
Absolutely. Volunteers play an essential role. You can complete an online interest form and our team will contact you to discuss available opportunities.
9. How can I make a donation or support CAH’s mission?
Donations can be made directly online. They support our community programs, services for seniors, and initiatives aimed at reducing isolation. Official tax receipts are provided.
10. Are CAH services available in French and English?
Yes. CAH is a Francophone organization offering services in French, but several resources, tools, and information are also available in English to support families and partners.
11. How can I file a complaint with CAH?
You can submit a complaint by completing our online complaint form
Barbara Ceccarelli
Executive Director
416 365-3350 ext. 243
Fabien Schneider
Deputy Executive Director
416 365-3350 ext. 262
Clarisse Nangue-Woungang
Director of Programs
416 365-3350 ext.233
Jean Tété
Administrative Services Coordinator
416 365-3350 ext. 242
Hassiatou Salé
Housing Manager
416 365-3350 ext. 232
Tristan Mille
Community Engagement Officer
416 365-3350 ext. 222
Geneviève Grenier
President
Denis-Frawley
Vice President
Normand Babin
Secretary
Joelle Harfouche
Treasurer
Dominique Janssens
Director
Michel Tremblay
Director
Safia Fakim
Director
Vanessa Cange
Director
The CAH Board of Directors includes up to nine members elected at the Annual General Meeting.
Board members may choose to participate in one or more of the committees required for CAH’s good governance: the Executive Director Evaluation Committee, the Finance and Audit Committee, the Member Relations Committee, the Board Nominations Committee, the Building Committee, the Legal and Complaints Committee, and the Governance Committee.
To learn more about governance, the selection process, and the roles and responsibilities of elected members, click on the link below.
We asked some of our former board members what motivated them to join our Board. We encourage you to read their testimonials to discover their personal motivations. Perhaps some of these stories will inspire you to join us!
Testimonial
“I prefer to give my time. When you make a financial donation, a portion often goes to fundraising administration. I know that 100% of the time I give benefits CAH.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“I once realized that if Trump can be president, I can certainly serve on a Board and contribute just as much as younger people! You can be useful and take on responsibilities at any age.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“When you are involved in several organizations, it really pays off! You can more easily build connections between different stakeholders in the community.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
"I am very aware of the positive impact on caregivers of knowing that their
loved ones are in good hands."
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“…I was hesitant about rejoining the Board, fearing I might be overwhelmed. But the reality is that everyone’s input helps. In addition, our experiences and connections allow us to make suggestions or point things in the right direction.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“When I arrived alone in Toronto nearly 10 years ago, I wanted to connect more closely with the Francophone community. While researching community organizations, I discovered CAH and its mission dedicated to seniors’ well-being. It immediately resonated with me.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“We never know where asking questions will lead us. It’s the best way to see whether we could make a difference in an organization. Be curious! We don’t know what we don’t know!”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“By being part of the Board, I learn how governance and finances work in an organization like CAH. And, most importantly, how Board decisions have an impact on the lives of Francophone seniors at Place Saint-Laurent and in the community.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
"I saw how important the framework of services CAH could offer my mother was (home care, case manager). She no longer had to depend exclusively on me! What a relief as a caregiver to know that certain things are being handled by others."
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“I prefer to give my time. When you make a financial donation, a portion often goes to fundraising administration. I know that 100% of the time I give benefits CAH.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“I once realized that if Trump can be president, I can certainly serve on a Board and contribute just as much as younger people! You can be useful and take on responsibilities at any age.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“When you are involved in several organizations, it really pays off! You can more easily build connections between different stakeholders in the community.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
"I am very aware of the positive impact on caregivers of knowing that their
loved ones are in good hands."
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“…I was hesitant about rejoining the Board, fearing I might be overwhelmed. But the reality is that everyone’s input helps. In addition, our experiences and connections allow us to make suggestions or point things in the right direction.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“When I arrived alone in Toronto nearly 10 years ago, I wanted to connect more closely with the Francophone community. While researching community organizations, I discovered CAH and its mission dedicated to seniors’ well-being. It immediately resonated with me.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“We never know where asking questions will lead us. It’s the best way to see whether we could make a difference in an organization. Be curious! We don’t know what we don’t know!”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
“By being part of the Board, I learn how governance and finances work in an organization like CAH. And, most importantly, how Board decisions have an impact on the lives of Francophone seniors at Place Saint-Laurent and in the community.”
CAH Board of Directors
Testimonial
"I saw how important the framework of services CAH could offer my mother was (home care, case manager). She no longer had to depend exclusively on me! What a relief as a caregiver to know that certain things are being handled by others."
CAH Board of Directors
Do you want to join our team?
Thank you to our partners
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