For over 100 years, VHA Home HealthCare (VHA) has been at the heart of our communities, offering excellent care and unwavering support to individuals of all ages. A lot has changed since our modest beginnings in 1925, with just 15 homemakers providing support to new mothers. Today, as one of the largest not-for-profit providers of publicly-funded care in Ontario, our team of over 3,000 dedicated home care specialists deliver personal support, nursing, rehab and community support services to vulnerable populations in need.

As we celebrate this monumental 100 year milestone, we reflect on the visionary leaders, staff and home care specialists who have shaped our legacy.

Among them is Rose Sullivan, a personal support worker (PSW) whose story embodies the heart of VHA and has helped us stay true to our vision of providing the highest quality, compassionate care at home.

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38 Years of Service  

After finishing the PSW program at George Brown College, Rose Sullivan vividly remembers the day she began her career at VHA Home HealthCare—February 23, 1987. On that Monday morning, she walked into the home of an overwhelmed mother to care for her five-year-old child and five-month-old infant triplets.

With one baby cradled on her shoulder, another nestled in her lap and the third gently rocking in a baby chair with her foot, Rose faced the challenge with calm determination. Growing up as one of 12 children, nurturing has always come naturally to Rose.

Now, nearly four decades later, she reflects on her long career. “I’ve stayed with VHA all of these years for a lot of reasons, but it really comes down to my passion for helping others,” she explains.

Delivered with Heart

For Rose, working in home care is deeply personal. Unlike in a hospital or long-term care facility, she appreciates the opportunity to connect with clients in their own homes, where they feel most comfortable. “It’s not always easy,” she admits, referring to the challenges of driving between clients’ homes, managing timed visits and navigating difficult requests from family members.

“But many of my clients are isolated or have limited social connections and just talking with them can really lift their spirits,” she says.

Rose believes that so much of this work is really about the little things. “When I walk into a client’s home, I leave it better than when I arrived. They are smiling, their bed is made, they’ve had a cup of tea and they feel clean and fresh. The impact is instant, it’s right in front of you, and that’s so rewarding.”

Embracing Change and Growth

Throughout her 38 years with VHA, Rose has seen many changes. “When I started in the ‘80s, everything was done on paper. We had to sign in and out of client visits and mail our timesheets into the head office,” she recalls.

“When we first got Blackberry smartphones, I thought I would lose my mind. I wasn’t a computer person, but now it’s second nature, and it’s been amazing to see how technology has improved accountability and the quality of care.”

Rose also remembers her early uniform—a light blue dress that, while professional, less practical than the current uniform of a VHA polo and pants. “I don’t know where that dress ended up,” she laughs. “Maybe at Goodwill?”

Rose truly believes her work has helped her grow, not just as a PSW, but as a person. “VHA has always encouraged training and education and that’s been so valuable,” she says. “The skills I’ve gained—from leadership to providing care—have not only helped me in my work but also in caring for my friends and family. It improves your self-worth when you know you’re educated, trained and capable.”

A Legacy of Excellence  

Rose’s experience, clinical skills, patience, kindness and positive attitude are deeply appreciated by her entire team. Her supervisor, Ahamad Mohammed describes her as a “true gem”.

“Rose consistently sets an example for others through her strong work ethic and willingness to support complex clients without hesitation,” Ahamad says. “Her decades of experience shine through in her clinical skills and clients and families regularly share how much they appreciate and value her care,” Ahamad says.

“Rose embodies the spirit of VHA,” he adds. “She always goes above and beyond to ensure her clients receive the best possible care.”

Looking Toward the Future

As Rose nears the end of her career, she remains full of energy and excitement. “This work keeps me going,” she says. “I don’t think I’ll ever really stop. I’ll look for volunteer opportunities when I retire so I can keep making a difference.”

As we celebrate a century of care at VHA, we are proud to honour Rose and countless others who have dedicated their careers to making a difference. Their passion, resilience and commitment are the foundation on which VHA was built—and we know they will continue to inspire us for the next 100 years.