Services for Holocaust Survivors

Does Circle of Care provide financial assistance for medical expenses?

Circle of Care does not provide reimbursement for medical expenses for Holocaust Survivors. However, financial assistance for eligible clients is provided by our partners, Jewish Family and Child, 416-638-7800. Please contact Jewish Family and Child prior to purchasing services or products for program eligibility and guidelines.

Are children of Holocaust survivors eligible for any assistance?

Spouses and children of Survivors are not eligible for Circle of Care’s home care program. In some specific and limited cases, heirs of Survivors may be eligible to receive restitution. All questions regarding restitution should be directed to Jewish Family and Child, 416-638-7800.

What are the financial criteria for a Holocaust survivor to be eligible for services from the Holocaust Survivor Program?

Client income may not exceed $66,300, excluding government pensions as well as several other pensions which will be reviewed at the time of application. As well, client assets may not exceed $1,326,090. Assets do not include primary residence but do include all other forms of assets and investments. These amounts are determined by the Claims Conference and unfortunately, there are no exceptions. As well, we review the income and assets of the applicant only, household and/or spousal finances are not required.

Why do you need my financial/tax documents?

It is a requirement of the Claims Conference that finances are thoroughly reviewed to determine eligibility for the program.

How long does it take to apply for the Holocaust Survivor Program?

If clients already have a Claims Conference ID Number, applications can be processed within about two weeks of receipt. Circle of Care must have the complete application package in order to proceed with the review and acceptance process. If you require assistance completing your application, one of our Case Managers can visit you in your home to assist you.

Does Circle of Care provide PSWs and Homemakers that speak my language?

While we strive to provide language specific care, it is based on availability of workers. Unfortunately, we are not always able to accommodate language specific requests but do our best to ensure staff are trained to meet your needs.

What makes someone eligible for the Holocaust Survivor Program?

There are a number of eligibility criteria for the program. These will be reviewed in full during the Intake Process. Clients must have a Claims Conference ID number and subsequently be approved to receive home care through our application process. Clients must also exhaust all local government services prior to applying for this program. For example, if you require personal care, you will need to use Home and Community Care services before we can provide additional personal support services. Lastly, clients must meet the financial eligibility requirements for the program.

How long do I have to wait to start receiving services once I have finished the application? How long does it take for Claims Conference to approve my status once my application has been completed?

Once the application is complete, it must be approved by the Claims Conference. This usually takes about two weeks. Once the approval is received, a Case Manager will contact you to book an assessment. They are able to see you within about two weeks and sooner in urgent client situations. Once the assessment is complete, the Case Manager will work with you to develop your care plan. Services will start as soon as possible depending on what services you require and any special requirements.