Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka welcomes new participants now, with additional programs launching this fall.
Residents across Simcoe County and Muskoka who are navigating cancer, supporting a loved one or grieving a cancer-related loss can access free emotional and social support without travelling to Barrie.
Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka has space available in its current virtual programs and is expanding its online offerings through its Virtual Program Enhancement Project, helping more people find connection and support from home.
For residents in rural communities, those facing transportation challenges or people balancing treatment, work and caregiving, virtual programming can make participating easier.
“Living outside Barrie should not prevent someone from finding a community that understands what they are going through,” says Jodi Brereton, MA, CAGS, RP, Program Director at Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka. “Across Simcoe County and Muskoka, we want people to know that our support is available to them. You do not have to travel to the clubhouse to become part of Gilda’s.”
Virtual programs welcoming additional participants
Current virtual adult offerings include:
- Living with Advanced Cancer
- Newly Diagnosed, In Treatment Support
- Grief and Loss
- Caring for Caregivers
- Family and Friends
- Men’s Night
- Facing Forward Survivorship
- Beyond Treatment Support
- Yin Yoga
- QiYong Yoga
- Pilates
These programs provide opportunities to connect with others who understand, explore ways to cope and support well-being from home. Membership and programming are free of charge.
New support launching this fall
The expansion will bring additional opportunities to residents throughout Simcoe County and Muskoka, including:
- A seven-week online post-treatment support group, beginning Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 7–8:30 p.m.
- A support group for people in their 20s and 30s, beginning Tuesday, November 3, 2026, from 7–8:30 p.m.
Additional offerings planned to begin in November include adolescent and young adult virtual support, a psychoeducational series exploring emotions and making meaning, and a virtual Wellness Tool Kit program.
A Chef & Cancer Nutrition program is also in development, with a potential launch in November or the new year. The planned hybrid format would combine virtual participation with use of the Barrie clubhouse kitchen.
Virtual programming for children and youth is planned for 2027, supported by additional facilitator training in play therapy.
Following the closure of Gilda’s Club Greater Toronto, the project also draws on the experience of facilitators previously connected with the Toronto organization. This work will help welcome people affected by that closure while strengthening the range of support available to Simcoe County and Muskoka communities.
Local residents are encouraged to reach out
Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka welcomes people living with cancer at any stage, those who have completed treatment, caregivers, family members and friends, and people grieving a cancer-related death.
Residents do not need to attend the clubhouse in person to explore virtual support. To learn about membership and available programs, contact the program team:
- Call: 705-726-5199
- Email: program@gildasclubsm.org
- Visit: www.gildasclubsimcoemuskoka.org
The team will explain the membership process, discuss individual needs and help participants explore suitable programs. Registration is required. Those interested in participating virtually are encouraged to mention this when reaching out.
“Sometimes the hardest part is making that first call,” adds Brereton. “You do not need to know what to ask for or have everything figured out. We are here to listen, answer your questions and help you find a place to begin.”
Health-care providers, community organizations and residents are encouraged to share this information with anyone who could benefit.
Community generosity keeps support free
Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka receives no government funding and relies on donations, fundraising and community partnerships to keep its services free.
Individuals, businesses and foundations interested in supporting the Virtual Program Enhancement Project are invited to contact Danielle Parks-Hamer, Director of Fund Development & Partnerships. Contributions will help strengthen program delivery and extend access to people who may otherwise face barriers to participation.
