Cottage Dreams is a free service available to Ontario residents who have had cancer.  This is a way for you to spend quality time by yourself or with those who helped you come through an incredibly difficult time. 

Please review the program information below and contact us if you or someone you know qualifies. 

Who are the recipients?
Our program is available to adults and children who have survived a cancer diagnosis and are no longer in active treatment.   We encourage those who have been out of treatment for 6 months or less to apply. We exist to support the incredible people who fought hard and won back their lives. 

Is anyone able to apply?
Anyone currently undergoing chemotherapy, radiation or any other aggressive treatment cannot be considered at this time.  Our cottage donors are extraordinary people and we wouldn't exist without them, therefore we have chosen the recipient criteria to reflect a person in recovery.  The guests will be feeling strong enough to enjoy their time away and also to reduce the chance that a cancer-related emergency will occur.  We will work with you during treatment for when you are finished treatment and ready to get away.

We encourage those who will be completing treatment later in the year to apply as we have received so many summer applications to date.

How do we apply?
We are now accepting applications.  We begin processing applications in early 2004 for placements beginning in the spring.  Cottage Dreams maintains a strict confidentiality policy for all information provided.

How much does it cost to participate?
There will be no cost to participate, although a fully refundable security deposit may be required.

How many family members are able to participate?
You may choose to spend your week alone but if you bring guests, the maximum number will be 5 additional visitors per cottage, dependant on space availability at the property. Each property owner will confirm space available as well other "house rules".  It is common to have a no pet policy, noise restriction after 11:00 pm and of course no smoking.  Other requests will be on an as per basis.

What happens if there is an accident or property damage has occurred?
Prior to confirming placement, Cottage Dreams and the designated family representative will sign a legal waiver releasing the cottage owner, Cottage Dreams and any other third party rental agency from all liability.  All properties will be insured before anyone is allowed to visit.  With regard to cleanliness and care, we expect the recipients to respect the generosity of the donor and care for the cottage as if it were their own.  A damage deposit may be required from the visitors.

If you have additional questions, comments or suggestions, please contact us via email at cottagedreams@sympatico.ca