Helping Hands, Orillia - General and Events

Our Purpose.

Making independence possible - Together. 

Mission.

Unlocking potential with forward-thinking solutions and compassionate care.

Vision.

Turning possibility into reality—empowering lives and redefining care through innovation, collaboration, and connection.

Our History.

Like most success stories, Helping Hands had small beginnings. In 1972 at Betty Forward’s kitchen table on Hughes Rd, Orillia, Betty and her eight sons saw a need and began to provide lawn care, snow removal and transportation to seniors in the Orillia area. A few years later, they had a small staff based out of the home of the company’s first executive director, providing personal support services similar to today. Eventually, the organization grew enough to secure provincial funding and moved into a formal office space. As funding began to flow, Helping Hands was able to focus on health and independence-related services that continue to grow today.

Today.

Helping Hands maintains a unique service model by providing a wide range of home care and community support services for seniors and adults with physical disabilities. Our services are subsidized by government funding, allowing us to provide a wide range of support. With the incredible dedication and generosity of our many volunteers, we can continue to help maintain independence during the journey of aging.

We provide a range of essential community support services designed to help individuals live safely and independently at home. These include transportation to medical appointments, Meals on Wheels and meal delivery programs, friendly visiting, wellness checks, personal support, homemaking and other supports that reduce isolation and improve overall well-being. Our volunteers play a central role in delivering these services—whether driving clients, delivering meals, offering companionship, or supporting special programs—helping to create a stronger, more connected community.