Frequently Asked Questions

How do I donate to Help The Aged?

You can donate over the phone using our toll free line 1-800-648-1111.

You can donate by mail. Print out our donation form and mail to:
1300 Carling Ave. Suite 205
Ottawa, ON K1Z 7L2

Or, you can donate Online

What will my donation be used for?

We support a number of programs in Canada and overseas. If you prefer, you can choose to give to only Canadian programs, or only overseas projects. Alternatively, you can choose to donate to a specific project.

How much money is spent on administration and fundraising?

4.1% was spent on administrative costs in the 2007-08 fiscal year. 3.4% is spent on fundraising endeavours. We keep our administration costs low by relying heavily on volunteers, and by working with local charitable organizations in developing countries.

What is Help the Aged’s mission?

Our mission is to improve the quality of life of older people, support their independence and inclusion, and provide services to relieve distress, poverty and sickness.

To learn more about Help the Aged, see Who we are

Is Help the Aged affiliated with any particular religion?

No. Help the Aged is a non-denominational, non-profit international development organization meeting the needs of poor or destitute elderly people in Canada and the developing world since 1975.

HTA does work with various religious organizations in Canada and overseas, but does so because they share a common goal of helping destitute elderly. We strive to work with trustworthy, dedicated people who strongly believe in helping the elderly.

Where does Help the Aged’s funding come from?

Over 50 % of our funding is raised through donations from the public. Government income and donations-in-kind supplement general donations.

We have 5,000 regular donors who support our development projects overseas and our Canadian programs. We also receive support from over 900 Adopt-A-Gran program sponsors. All of your donations for projects overseas are tripled through grants from CIDA (Canadian International Development Agency) and the Alberta Wild Rose Foundation.

Who governs Help the Aged?

HTAC is governed by an elected volunteer Board of Directors. The Board also appoints Management Committees to advise the Executive Director, who is hired by the Board.

As specified in our bylaws, the maximum number of Board members is 25. However, the board has consistently kept this number down to approximately 12 to keep overhead expenses low and to ensure more efficient decision making.

How much difference will my sponsorship really make?

In developing countries, where so many people live in extreme poverty, it can make all the difference in the world. It can provide somewhere to live, food to eat and medical care. Most importantly, it can bring hope for the future. In many of the countries that we support, the average person earns less than $400 per year.

The Adopt-A-Gran Program, with the support and concern of likeminded people like you, has helped thousands of elderly people in need regain their confidence and dignity.

Sponsorship will ensure that your Gran receives food, clothing, shelter and medical attention when required. Each caring organization uses the money to the best advantage for the individuals in their care. As the needs vary, so does the way the money is spent, but the basics are always insured.

How can I volunteer for Help the Aged?

We are always looking for volunteers either in Ottawa or across Canada to help with in a variety of areas.

Take a look at our volunteer page to find out what we are looking for in terms of volunteers. If you are interested, you can contact Brenda Packer at 613-232-0727 or email a letter of interest to info@helptheaged.ca .

Can I work for Help the Aged?

Please see our employment page for any employment opportunities.

Can I intern for Help the Aged?

Help the Aged annually recruits international youth interns to provide them with practical work experience in a developing country. At the same time, the interns leave behind skill and knowledge that will benefit the local community. Please refer to our internship information.

Canadian Internships

Help the Aged has received approval from HRSDC for our Canadian Youth Reaching out to Vulnerable Seniors Internship Program. Young professionals provide assistance to vulnerable seniors. Please refer to our internship information (coming soon).