March of Dimes Canada was founded in 1951 to assist individuals stricken by polio. Upon the advent of the Salk vaccine, our purpose was expanded to be Canada’s leading service provider, resource and advocate, empowering people with disabilities to live and thrive in communities nationwide.
Today, March of Dimes Canada is one of the largest providers of community-based services to children and adults with physical disabilities in Ontario, with over 1,600 employees in over 90 locations. In 2006, we began to extend our programs nationally, and currently also have services available in Nova Scotia, Alberta and British Columbia, with plans to further expand across Canada.
In 2022-24, we provided services to over 35,000 children and adults across Canada, who suffer from multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, acquired brain injuries, the effects of stroke or polio, and other conditions. The services provided cover a broad range of needs including Employment and Recreation programs, Independent Living Services, Vocational Rehabilitation, Peer Support programs for stroke survivors, and much more. Programs are offered in Ontario, Nova Scotia, Alberta and British Columbia. March of Dimes Canada has been accredited by Imagine Canada’s Standards Program for excellence in financial accountability and transparency, fundraising, and governance.