The Undercover Kindness Project

A little kindness towards a family caregiver can go a long way which is why The Ontario Caregiver Organization (OCO) is partnering with media icon and caregiver Erica Ehm on delivering undercover acts of kindness. Read more about the initiative and watch the video to see what OCO did in collaboration with Marissa’s family and friends to help make her day just a bit better. ??

Looking back at my caregiving experiences, first for my brother with cerebral palsy, then my mother through her cancer journey and now supporting my father, the thing that stands out the most as making a difference in my life were small acts of kindness from friends, family and neighbours. ?

I will never forget the generosity of my neighbour while my mom was in palliative care. For those who live in Toronto, you’ll know that parking can be challenging, particularly at 2 a.m. when I’d return home from being with my mom. It was an added stress that my neighbour recognized. They offered me their driveway so I wouldn’t have to worry about that when I had so many other things on my mind. For the rest of my life, I will never forget that small act of kindness.??

In OCO’s most recent Spotlight report, 63% of Ontario’s four million caregivers said they reached their breaking point but had no choice to keep going. 64% are providing care while also juggling a job. The reality is caregivers are struggling and they often don’t ask for help. What we learned when we asked why is that it really comes down to it’s the fear of being judged, being told what they should be doing and it’s one more thing to do. It’s sometimes not easy to coordinate extra help. For so many caregivers, caregiving can be lonely and that’s why some help or an act of kindness can have a big impact.

Today is Random Act of Kindness Day and to honour that day, we are launching The Undercover Kindness Project. The OCO has collaborated with the family and friends of three caregivers to deliver an act of kindness. We called it The Undercover Kindness Project because caregivers often working quietly and unnoticed and they don’t want the attention on them. So, if you want to do something nice for a caregiver in your life, you have to do it undercover.?It’s not about fanfare or attention.?It’s about a meaningful act that shows the caregiver you recognize what they are doing.?We’re thrilled to be working with OCO brand ambassador, Erica Ehm to raise awareness of the challenges around being a caregiver and what we can all do to help.

I invite you to watch our first act of kindness. We hope it inspires others to do something small for a caregiver in their life today and going forward because kindness isn’t just about one day. Show up with a coffee, food, take care of a pet or shovel the driveway. If you’re not sure what to do, download the I am a Caregiver booklet on our webpage and pass it along. It has information on free programs and services that can help. Trust me, a small act of kindness could be unforgettable.

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