A new volunteer program in Collingwood, Ontario, is looking for people to provide in-home childcare for local families where a parent or caregiver has cancer. The organization Nankind posted the opportunity on the county volunteer database on February 25, 2026. This initiative is designed to reduce household stress and allow caregivers to attend medical appointments and treatments.
Known as Volunteer Angels, those who sign up will offer four hours of childcare each week to the same family. This consistency is intended to help children stay resilient and supported while their families deal with the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. By providing this help at home, the program ensures caregivers do not have to find emergency childcare during treatment.
To qualify for the role, applicants must be at least 16 years old and have at least 100 hours of experience with children through activities like babysitting, teaching, or tutoring. All volunteers are also required to complete a police information check before they are matched with a local family.
Residents can find the listing and apply through the Simcoe County volunteer portal. The program was originally started by Audrey Guth, a cancer survivor who recognized that finding reliable childcare is often a major barrier for patients trying to access life-saving healthcare.
By offering this support in the community, the program helps local residents who may need to travel to the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital or other regional centers for care. The goal is to make sure that no parent in the community has to choose between their own medical treatment and the well-being of their children.
