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	<title>Caregivers Online</title>
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	<link>http://caregiversonline.org</link>
	<description>The caregivers connection</description>
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		<title>My thoughts as a Mom/Family Caregiver</title>
		<link>http://caregiversonline.org/my-thoughts-as-a-momfamily-caregiver/</link>
		<comments>http://caregiversonline.org/my-thoughts-as-a-momfamily-caregiver/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 13 May 2012 15:28:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[caregiver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mom]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mothers day]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://caregiversonline.org/?p=718</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Position applied: Mother/Family Caregiver Being a mother is not easy. It is the most difficult and challenging job I have experienced. 21 years before, I didn&#8217;t know how it was to be a mother. Although I have a loving mother, I am more focused on [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Position applied: Mother/Family Caregiver</p>
<p>Being a mother is not easy.<br />
It is the most difficult and challenging job I have experienced.<br />
21 years before, I didn&#8217;t know how it was to be a mother.<br />
Although I have a loving mother, I am more focused on what I am and want as a child.<br />
It took years and years to finally figure out what does a real mother is.<br />
It is easy to describe what a real mother is based on what you see but that description would definitely change when you are in that position.</p>
<p>Job description:</p>
<p>Mother/family caregivers need to be a master in Homeroom and Economics to be able to cook and manage household chores well.<br />
Be a master in Psychology to be able to understand your kids and husbands behavior and be able to deal with them in a positive way.<br />
Be a master in Business Management/ Accounting to be able to manage the finance of the family.<br />
Be a master in Social Work to be able to serve your family, relatives, friends and community and teach other people to be independent and to be of service to others as well.<br />
Be a master of the virtue of Godliness to be able to serve God, to do what is right and just to your fellowmen.<br />
And most of all be a master in Education, be educated doesn&#8217;t mean you need to go to school.<br />
Education entails us to feed our mind and soul with the right information through books, visual aids, audio visuals, attending seminars, forums and the like.</p>
<p>Be a catalyst and instrument of change.<br />
If we hope for a change in our society, let’s start with in ourselves.<br />
Personality development as mother is very important, because as a mother and caregiver we need to have the right attitude, integrity and commitment in order to create the change that we aspire for.<br />
From us to our family, raise kids to have the right attitude, faith in God, be a good leader and good citizens.<br />
Then finally there would be a better society if we do the right thing and share it with others in our community.</p>
<p>HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!</p>
<p>a</p>
<p><a href="http://caregiversonline.org/my-thoughts-as-a-momfamily-caregiver/">My thoughts as a Mom/Family Caregiver</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>LCP applicant files complaint against placement agency, a cautionary tale</title>
		<link>http://caregiversonline.org/lcp-applicant-files-complaint-against-placement-agency/</link>
		<comments>http://caregiversonline.org/lcp-applicant-files-complaint-against-placement-agency/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 03 May 2012 02:51:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>NannyTales</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Caregiver Issues]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[application for caregiver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EPFNA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[placement agencies]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://caregiversonline.org/?p=707</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How much does it cost an applicant to enter Canada as a live-in caregiver (LCP)? As per new regulations governing the hiring of LCP, all costs should be shouldered by employers but for a suspicious agency like one called Sampaguita International Recruitment Agency, it costs [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">How much does it cost an applicant to enter Canada as a live-in caregiver (LCP)?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As per new regulations governing the hiring of LCP, all costs should be shouldered by<br />
employers but for a suspicious agency like one called Sampaguita International<br />
Recruitment Agency, it costs thousands. This, even after the passage of<br />
Employment Protection for Foreign Nationals Act (EPFNA) that prohibits recruiters from charging any fees to foreign live-in caregivers, either directly or indirectly.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In a letter of complaint sent to Labour Attache Francisco Luna and filed in the Ministry of Labour, Jeramy C., a nurse from the Philippines accused Sampaguita International Employment Agency, operated by one Letty Domingo and her assistant Jossie Bayaua of defrauding him of 6,500CAD for purposes of finding him an employment in Canada as a live-in caregiver.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Jeramy alleged that Sampaguita agency promised to find him an employer in Canada within processing times of 5-6 months only. In return, he was asked to pay a placement fee of 6,500 CAD in an installment basis: a down payment of 3, 500 CAD upon submission of application and another payment of 3,000 once the LMO and contract is ready.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Jeramy paid in full in January 2012, nine months after he filed his application but as of this writing, he didn’t receive any copy of an LMO or an employment contract despite the promises and assurances made by the agency.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The same complaint was also forwarded to this writer by Jeramy’s friend, named Twinkle who filed an application with the same agency and paid a total of US 2,500.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A request for interview by this writer with the said agency was denied.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Where it all began</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Jeramy got to know Sampaguita agency when he was still working as a nurse in England and got in touch with Helen* (name withheld for safety and privacy purposes) in Facebook. Helen is Jeramy’s classmate in college who is working as a live-in caregiver in Ontario. She mentioned that she knew Jossie Bayaua, who is an assistant to Letty Domingo, owner of Sampaguita agency. She said the agency is in need of applicants for a caregiver position. Jeramy expressed interest and Helen<br />
passed his information to Jossie.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Jeramy then communicated with Bayaua through her Facebook account in which she also asked if he knew others who are interested in applying. Jeramy passed the information to his other friends including Twinkle who applied, too. She asked her aunt who resides in the US for help in paying the down payment which her aunt readily agreed. Her aunt paid Domingo a total of US2, 500 through a manager’s check.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Both applicants submitted their applications and resume sometime on September 2011. Both were assured that they have employers.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Three months after, Jeramy said the agency was not able to come up with a contract and an LMO in the excuse that the Human Resource and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) is slow in processing papers. Five months later, Jeramy decided to withdraw his application because he was granted a tourist visa in Vancouver but Helen explained that his application is already in process and that his LMO has been released. But he did not  receive any LMO or contract even after another month later. This prompted him to call Domingo who explained that his LMO has been released but since he said he was withdrawing his payment, she cancelled her appointment to the “connection” thus, the non-issuance of the LMO. During the conversation, she was able to convinced Jeramy again that he has an LMO so he paid another CAD 3,000.00 as full payment.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Another month later and no sign of LMO as well. Jeramy then called Domingo and learned that he still doesn’t have an LMO so he decided to ask for a full refund. Jeramy alleged that during the conversation, Domingo was upset and blamed him and Helen forthe loss of LMO. She stressed that she lost her “connection” when he asked for a refund.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Jeramy nevertheless insisted for a refund at that point on which Domingo replied that she will refund it with all her expenses deducted and that it is not easy to refund his money.  She also threatened him that she can have him deported out of Canada and that he can’t implicate her because it was not she who received his payment.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In Twinkle’s case, her aunt Jennny who served as her representative and who paid her for down payment said her doubts against the agency were confirmed when Domingo called her to ask for Twinkle’s final payment of US2, 500.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“I asked for a copy of the LMO and the contract, and she started getting nasty,” she said.  To prove that there really is an employment offer for Twinkle, Domingo sent her a copy of a page 5 of a contract and asked that Twinkle sign it so they can pay the remaining balance.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But Jenny said, “I refused. I said to her that how could anybody sign a contract that has only page 5 on it? She started making a lot of excuses and she even denied that she received the cheque I sent her.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">There is no LMO and contract for Twinkle as of this writing, too.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Jeramy and Twinkle decided to file their complaints under the EPFNA.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>And there are the other victims&#8230;</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A further interview with those involve in this case also brought out some interesting stories. In an interview with Helen, the friend who recommended the agency and the liaison between Jeramy and the agency, she revealed that she too, was a victim in this tale of fraud.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Helen’s tears flowed when she realized that she unwittingly aided an illegal activity by recommending applicants to Sampaguita agency. She thought she was only helping a friend.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">She admits that she is stressed out these days because of Jeramy’s case. Her relationship with the agency soured when she began inquiring of the real status of Jeramy’s application. She claimed that Domingo got upset and threatened that her involvement with them can jeopardize her status in Canada.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Helen arrived in Canada as a live-in caregiver. She met Domingo through Jossie, a person she knew well. They introduced themselves as the Sampaguita Recruitment agency and asked her if she has friends who are interested to work in Canada. They assured her that they can help them get work.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“I believed them. I know Jossie well. I was excited so I told my friend, Jera, and<br />
some others about the agency.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As a liason between Jeramy and the agency, she received Jeramy’s down payment in her<br />
bank account.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Immediately after Jeramy texted me that he wired the money, I withdraw it cash and handed it over to Jossie,” she explained, “I asked for receipt but Jossie laughed at me and told me that you never meet a placement agency who gives you receipt.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Helen took that as “normal” but she admits it bothered her. “I only held to my belief that I know Jossie personally and believed that she will not deceive me.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It is with this blind faith that she also recommended another relative to the agency who made a down payment of 900 CAD for a work in Canada. He withdrew his application for a month. In this case, she was also asked by Domingo to find a replacement.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Ate Letty asked me to find a replacement applicant since the one I recommended withdrew. And I am supposed to fill that up since she lost 900CAD,” she narrates.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">She was able to recommend another applicant and everything seemed well between them until Jeramy expressed his doubts after he did not receive any LMO nor contract as promised even after he paid in full.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Before the second payment was made, I asked them (Domingo and Jossie) in behalf of Jeramy to show me the LMO. Ate Letty and Jossie assured me. I wanted to see it to make sure but was not able to meet them that one time due to prior engagement. So I never got to see a proof that an LMO for Jeramy exists. So when Jeramy called Ate Letty that he decided to withdraw his application and<br />
asked for a full refund because he lost faith on them, Letty started blaming me for what happened.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Helen also said that she was told by Jossie and Domingo not to contact them anymore and asked her to refund Jeramy a total of 1, 400 CAD out of her own pocket.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Another friend Gerlie*, said she feels the same way. Gerlie said she was asked by Bayaua and Domingo to refer anybody who is interested in working in Ontario as mushroom pickers. Three of her friends from Saudi Arabia applied last year and paid CAD 3,000.00 each. Not one of them received any contract or LMO yet. And yet, Gerlie is still hoping that her friends will receive it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Gerlie is also working as a live-in caregiver. She shared that both she and Helen, aside from Domingo and Bayaua, didn’t know a soul in Ontario when they first arrived.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“We have no relatives here and we didn’t know anything. I guess we were perfect prey to be used in their shady activities,” she mused.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Both Helen and Gerlie said the same thing:  “Meeting Letty Domingo was the worst thing that happened to me in Canada. I wish I’ve never known her.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Employment Protection for Foreign Nationals Act (EPFNA) which came into force in March 22,<br />
2010, prohibits recruiters from charging any fees to foreign live-in caregivers, either directly or indirectly; prevents employers from recovering placement costs from the live-in caregiver; prohibits employers and recruiters from taking a live-in caregiver’s property, including documents such as a passport or work permit; prohibits a recruiter, an employer, or a person acting on their behalf<br />
from intimidating or penalizing a live-in caregiver for asking about or asserting their rights under the Act and requires recruiters and, in some situations, employers to distribute information sheets to live-in caregivers setting out their rights under the <acronym>EPFNA</acronym> and those provisions of the <a title="(www.e-laws.gov.on.ca)" href="http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/statutes/english/elaws_statutes_00e41_e.htm">Employment<br />
Standards Act, 2000</a> (<acronym>ESA</acronym>) considered to be of particular relevance.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Violations of this Act may lead to a fine of 50, 000 or more and imprisonment.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p>
<p>a</p>
<p><a href="http://caregiversonline.org/lcp-applicant-files-complaint-against-placement-agency/">LCP applicant files complaint against placement agency, a cautionary tale</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>DINNER TIME (On the eyes of a foreign caregiver)</title>
		<link>http://caregiversonline.org/dinner-time-on-the-eyes-of-a-foreign-caregiver/</link>
		<comments>http://caregiversonline.org/dinner-time-on-the-eyes-of-a-foreign-caregiver/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:09:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>NannyTales</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Poetry]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://caregiversonline.org/?p=701</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Eat, my child, please! I begged To this child I call ward. As he stared At his dinner of Sirloin steak, buttered vegetables, Mashed potatoes, a cup of milk.   “I don’t want to,”he hissed, “Please, eat.”I insisted. “Why?Why?Why?”he screamed “So that you’ll grow well,” [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><address>Eat, my child, please!</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">I begged</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">To this child I call ward.</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">As he stared</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">At his dinner of</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">Sirloin steak, buttered vegetables,</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">Mashed potatoes, a cup of milk.</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;"> </address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">“I don’t want to,”he hissed,</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">“Please, eat.”I insisted.</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">“Why?Why?Why?”he screamed</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">“So that you’ll grow well,” I said.</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;"> </address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">But I wish I could tell you this:</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">You need to eat, because,</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">I am being paid to make sure you</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">Eat this feast,</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">So that another child your age</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">Will also have something to eat:</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;">A bowl of rice and one dried fish.</address>
<address style="text-align: justify;"> </address>
<p>a</p>
<p><a href="http://caregiversonline.org/dinner-time-on-the-eyes-of-a-foreign-caregiver/">DINNER TIME (On the eyes of a foreign caregiver)</a></p>
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		<title>Important websites (Application for Permanent Residence Status)</title>
		<link>http://caregiversonline.org/important-websites-application-for-permanent-residence-status/</link>
		<comments>http://caregiversonline.org/important-websites-application-for-permanent-residence-status/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 25 Aug 2011 14:21:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Caregiver Issues]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[applying for permanent residence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[caregiver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[live-in caregiver canada]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://caregiversonline.org/?p=628</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Ready to process your application for Permanent Residence? Good for you! Here are following links that could help you make your application smoother. Good luck! 1.Get a copy/download application forms and instructions in filling up the forms, http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/notices/notice-permanent.asp click http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/live-in.asp 2.Renewal/amendment/replacement of Philippine passport: www.philcongen-toronto.com/consular/docs/PassportRenewal.pdf [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Ready to process your application for Permanent Residence? Good for you! Here are following links that could help you make your application smoother. Good luck!</p>
<p>1.Get a copy/download application forms and instructions in filling up the forms, <a href="&quot;http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/notices/notice-permanent.asp">http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/notices/notice-permanent.asp</a></p>
<p>click <a href="http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/live-in.asp/">http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/live-in.asp</a></p>
<p>2.Renewal/amendment/replacement of Philippine passport: <a>www.philcongen-toronto.com/consular/docs/PassportRenewal.pdf</a></p>
<p>3. Securing a police certificate from overseas like,Hong Kong: <a href="http://www.police.gov.hk/ppp_en/11_useful_info/cert_no_crime.html#oversea/">http://www.police.gov.hk/ppp_en/11_useful_info/cert_no_crime.html#oversea</a></p>
<p>Philippines NBI clearance: <a href="http://www.philcongen-toronto.com/consular/consular_notarial.php/">http://www.philcongen-toronto.com/consular/consular_notarial.php</a></p>
<p>and <a href="http://www.nbi.gov.ph/faq.htm/">http://www.nbi.gov.ph/faq.htm</a></p>
<p>4. Medical Exams in Canada (incase required): <a href="http://www.cic.gc.ca/dmp-md/medical.aspx/">www.cic.gc.ca/dmp-md/medicalinfo.aspx</a> and for designated Medical practitioners in Ontario Canada: <a href="http://www.cic.gc.ca/dmp-md/medicalinfo.aspx?CountryID=2042&amp;ProvID=15205&amp;ProvinceName=Ontario&amp;CountryName=Canada/">http://www.cic.gc.ca/dmp-md/medicalinfo.aspx?CountryID=2042&amp;ProvID=15205&amp;ProvinceName=Ontario&amp;CountryName=Canada</a> </p>
<p>(Please take note that the second medical exam is no longer required but CIC will still require you to do so if they see it otherwise.)</p>
<p>Medical Exams/ Designated Medical Practitioners in the Philippines: <a href="http://www.cic.gc.ca/dmp-md/medicalinfo.aspx?CountryID=2009&amp;CountryName=Philippines/">http://www.cic.gc.ca/dmp-md/medicalinfo.aspx?CountryID=2009&amp;CountryName=Philippines</a></p>
<p>5. Processing times for Permanent Residence (Live-in Caregiver): <a>www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/times/perm-other.asp</a></p>
<p>There could be changes on information and policies relevant to your application so it is important to check the <a href="http://www.cic.gc.ca/">www.cic.gc.ca</a> website from time to time.</p>
<p>a</p>
<p><a href="http://caregiversonline.org/important-websites-application-for-permanent-residence-status/">Important websites (Application for Permanent Residence Status)</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>The wait for Permanent Residency</title>
		<link>http://caregiversonline.org/the-wait-for-permanent-residency/</link>
		<comments>http://caregiversonline.org/the-wait-for-permanent-residency/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Aug 2011 15:55:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>NannyTales</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Nanny Blog]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://caregiversonline.org/?p=624</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I am always checking the mail these days. My neighbour and even the mail man would’ve noticed that exactly at 10:30, I am at the mailbox. I have been waiting like this for a month now. And every day, I turned on my heel without [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>I am always checking the mail these days. My neighbour and even the mail man would’ve noticed that exactly at 10:30, I am at the mailbox. I have been waiting like this for a month now. And every day, I turned on my heel without the much awaited Permanent Resident card. It has been 15 months since I passed my application to the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).</p>
<p>I remembered I told Menchie, a friend of my sister who was narrating how she suffered just to get her PR: “You crawled for your PR like a thirsty man on the dessert crawls for water.”</p>
<p>I never expected that I would more or less, experience what she went through.</p>
<p>I entered Canada through the Live-in Caregiver Program via Hong Kong. Since I arrived in 2007, I am required to finish a total of 24 months work as a Live-in Caregiver before I can apply as a permanent resident of Canada<em>. </em>(Rece</p>
<p>nt changes states that those who arrived April 01, 2010 can complete the 24-months requirement within 4 years.)</p>
<p>My first employer was based in British Columbia. I opted to be released after 2 months of work since prior to their application for me in Hong Kong, they already hired somebody from the Philippines and had been waiting for her for two years. Tired of waiting, they cancelled their application for her but the cancellation reached the Philippine embassy late. She was already granted her Visa. Ultimately, only one of us can remain. I volunteered to leave for Toronto.</p>
<p>Upon arriving in Toronto, I immediately sought employment. Since I was changing employers, I have to get a new work permit. I was given a new work permit which will expire to that of my Philippine passport.</p>
<p>The months passed quickly before I noticed that I only have two months before my passport will expire. But then two things happened: First, I was not able to have a day-off. The day that I was supposed to go out and processed my renewal, the father of my ward who’s supposed to relieve me was called in for emergency. He is a paramedic. My ward is a special child. He needs special care and there’s only three of us who knows how to feed him; Second, when I was able to process my renewal, the usual 2-week passport renewal process of the Philippine Consulate became a month-long processing since all passports are to be printed in the Philippines to be machine-readable. The consulate in Toronto doesn’t have the machine yet.</p>
<p>My new passport arrived one day after my work permit expired. I called the CIC for advice and was told that I lost my status in the process and need to apply for “Extension of Stay and Restoration of Status.” Further, I will be losing the months that I cannot work due to my loss of status. I received my work permit and restoration of status after almost 4 months.</p>
<p>I finally completed the 24 months requirement just 3 months before my 3-year limit. I submitted my application for PR and Open Permit on May, 2010. When I submitted, the CICs website said that the processing of Open Permits take 6-8 months. Granted that, I wasn’t worried that I will be on an implied status for three months before my Open Permit arrives. I was also assured by the CIC (when I called) that it is alright to be on an implied status providing you will still remain with your current employer.</p>
<p>It was late when I checked the CICs website after 4 months. The website said that the processing of PR will take 12 months for initial assessment and up to 15 months for the final assessment. (Take note that the recent changes on the LCP was the removal of the second medical exam prior to approval of PR. This was meant to facilitate the easier and speedier processing of PRs for caregivers. With the sudden changes of processing times, said change seemed irrelevant. It defeats its purpose.</p>
<p>I was left on an “implied status” which also means you cannot work for another employer, cannot apply for OHIP, and you can leave Canada but will have a hard time getting back in. You are stuck. I am stuck.</p>
<p>But then again, there are lessons to learn from my experience. For those who are on the process of submitting their applications, take note of the following. It might save you the distress I’m currently in.</p>
<ol>
<li>Gather and check all necessary papers. Be sure that you have filled up the forms correctly and accurately to avoid delays.</li>
</ol>
<p>     2. Make sure to have personal copies of the papers you submitted.</p>
<p>     3. If you will be on an implied status, better apply for another work permit. It is better to be safe than sorry. Again, I reiterate, you cannot apply for an OHIP on an implied status and travelling outside Canada is not advisable because you can’t or may have a hard time getting in.</p>
<p>    4. Check the processing times. The initial assessment posted on the CIC’s website last year said that the initial assessment is 12-14 months and final assessment is 15 months. They kept changing every time. Last time I checked, the initial assessment takes 14-16 months! <strong>Submit your applications the soonest you can.</strong> You never know, they might change the processing time to 2 years.</p>
<p>     5. Stay positive. The processing times may take longer than necessary but it doesn’t help to keep fretting about it specially so if there’s no reason that your application can be denied.</p>
<p>a</p>
<p><a href="http://caregiversonline.org/the-wait-for-permanent-residency/">The wait for Permanent Residency</a></p>
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		<title>Insurance and You (A Note from Sunlife Financial)</title>
		<link>http://caregiversonline.org/insurance-and-you-a-note-from-sunlife-financial/</link>
		<comments>http://caregiversonline.org/insurance-and-you-a-note-from-sunlife-financial/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 12 Jul 2011 01:28:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>NannyTales</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Caregivers Services]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://caregiversonline.org/?p=586</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[  Do you have insurance?  This is probably one of the most asked question posed on a caregiver upon arrival in Canada. Buying insurance has been touted and advised again and again to the community of caregivers as an added protection against uncontrollable events such [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><div id="attachment_621" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 150px">
	<a href="http://caregiversonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/lilia.jpg"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-621" title="lilia Metua" src="http://caregiversonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/lilia-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>
	<p class="wp-caption-text">Your Sunlife financial advisor</p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Do you have insurance?  </strong>This is probably one of the most asked question posed on a caregiver upon arrival in Canada. Buying insurance has been touted and advised again and again to the community of caregivers as an added protection against uncontrollable events such as sudden death, accident, or illness.</p>
<p> <strong>Why buy insurance?</strong></p>
<p> “Caregivers and skilled workers who are in very vulnerable work situations need insurance. There had been numerous cases where a caregiver suddenly died, diagnosed with incurable disease, and had an accident. It is a sad situation because most of these events, the caregiver has no insurance,” Lilia Metua and Russel Magtalas  , Financial Advisors from Sunlife Financial said. </p>
<p>“Having an insurance policy and sound financial plan can really mitigate the effects of this situations,” Russel explained “A life insurance is used after death and a critical illness insurance help look after the living and recuperating,” he explained.</p>
<p> But with so many insurance companies and financial advisors to choose from, how do you pick up an insurance policy?</p>
<p>Lilia and Russel share the following tips from Sunlife:</p>
<p><strong>Choosing an advisor for your financial affairs:</strong></p>
<p>You don&#8217;t have to be wealthy to get good advice about your financial matters, but if you want to have a million dollars, you&#8217;ll need good advice! In fact, the amount of money you have isn&#8217;t relevant. An advisor&#8217;s expertise and knowledge can help you accumulate wealth and protect your family and your investments. But before choosing the person who&#8217;s right for you, it&#8217;s important to do your homework.</p>
<p>The first thing you must do is establish your financial goals. Be specific, and put them in writing. Clear objectives will help you create a plan with dollar value and within a specific time frame. To say I want to be wealthy is a desire. To say I want to have a million dollars by the time I&#8217;m 65 is a clear financial goal.</p>
<p>Once you know what you want, an advisor can help you develop a strategy to begin your journey to your targets. Often your incoming money and outgoing expenses will be organized into a budget. Your assets and liabilities may be included in a net worth analysis. It&#8217;ll help you see how realistic your expectations or goals are. And it&#8217;ll guide you as you make crucial decisions about how much life, disability, and health insurance you&#8217;ll need to safeguard your livelihood and your family&#8217;s security.</p>
<p>It&#8217;s also important to know your own level of financial knowledge and how that&#8217;ll influence your need for advice. If you&#8217;re just starting to build your financial plan, you may need more assistance, for example understanding insurance and investment terms. On the other hand, if you&#8217;re experienced, you may want more input into your financial strategy.</p>
<p>The next step is to choose an advisor. Before you talk to potential candidates about your personal financial information, you should always check their credentials. Are they accredited with a recognized financial industry organization? Are they licensed to sell insurance products? Which investments are they licensed to sell? Are they licensed to provide financial planning?</p>
<p><strong>Interview your advisor</strong></p>
<p>Here are more important questions you can ask your potential advisor:</p>
<ul>
<li>What qualifies you to make decisions about my life and money?</li>
<li>Do you have three client references, not including family or friends?</li>
<li>Are you allowed to sell one company&#8217;s products, or several?</li>
<li>What kinds of insurance are you able to provide?</li>
<li>How can I get updates on my holdings?</li>
<li>Do you provide sample portfolios and their historical performance?</li>
<li>Can you design a strategy tailored to my financial goals and based on my risk tolerance?</li>
<li>Do you have relationships with other professionals who can help me?</li>
<li>How are you compensated and what commissions do you make?</li>
</ul>
<p>Advisors may charge an hourly rate, a percentage of assets under management, or receive a commission from the sales fees on the insurance and investments recommended. Make sure you understand how your advisor is compensated. And keep in mind, fees paid to advisors are tax deductible.</p>
<p>All this may take time and effort, but it&#8217;s worth it to find an advisor you trust and feel comfortable with. You wouldn&#8217;t trust the first dentist you come across in a directory to work on your teeth.</p>
<p>Be sure to channel a portion of your inquisitive energy into checking out books, magazines, and the Internet. A great place to start is <a href="http://www.sunlife.ca/plan/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=5a6958c4afb03110vgnprod10000d490d09fRCRD" target="_blank">www.sunlife.ca/myfinancialplan</a>.</p>
<p>Asking the right questions, and adding some research of your own will enable you to choose an advisor who can help you set a wide variety of clear goals, from providing for your family to becoming a wealthy by the age of 65!</p>
<p>For more information on insurance, please don&#8217;t hesitate to contact Lilia and Russel at their following addresses: Lilia- lilia.metua@sunlife.com;  Russel &#8211; <a href="mailto:russel.magtalas@sunlife.com">russel.magtalas@sunlife.com</a>.</p>
<p>a</p>
<p><a href="http://caregiversonline.org/insurance-and-you-a-note-from-sunlife-financial/">Insurance and You (A Note from Sunlife Financial)</a></p>
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		<title>Newsbriefs for June, 2011</title>
		<link>http://caregiversonline.org/newsbriefs-for-june-2011/</link>
		<comments>http://caregiversonline.org/newsbriefs-for-june-2011/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 29 Jun 2011 21:39:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>NannyTales</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Events & Activities]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://caregiversonline.org/?p=576</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[﻿﻿﻿﻿﻿ Sen. Drilon encourages further talks on the Dual Citizenship Act Philippine Senator Franklin Drilon, in his Toronto visit last June 25, 2011 stressed the benefits of the Dual Citizenship Act or RA 9225 as he is also seek to find on the other hand [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>﻿﻿﻿﻿﻿</p>
<p><strong>Sen. Drilon encourages further talks on the Dual Citizenship Act</strong></p>
<p>Philippine Senator Franklin Drilon, in his Toronto visit last June 25, 2011 stressed the benefits of the Dual Citizenship Act or RA 9225 as he is also seek to find on the other hand why there is not much support from Filipinos overseas on the bill after it was enacted.</p>
<p>“Dual citizenship gives you the 1.) right to vote, 2.) right to exercise profession and 3.) right to acquire property in the Philippines,” he stressed.</p>
<p>RA 9225 became a law when there was a strong movement of Filipinos in the United States who wanted to go back in the Philippines in 2003.</p>
<p>“But there are not much takers and results are not encouraging,” Drilon said, “According to the Immigration, there are only 34,000 who re-applied for citizenship; of these, 3.5% are from Northeast US and only 5% from Midwestern US.”</p>
<p>The reason for a low taker on this bill, accordingly, is because of two misconceptions. Sen. Drilon clarified that 1.) that to file for dual citizenship, there is no need to renounce one’s naturalized citizenship, and that 2.) income made outside the Philippines is not subject to Philippine income tax. All income overseas is tax-free.</p>
<p>Drilon encourage Filipinos outside the country to contribute on the improvement of the law.</p>
<p><strong>DOT launches 2011-16 as Pinoy Homecoming years</strong></p>
<p>The Philippines’ Department of Tourism declared the years 2011-16 as “Pinoy Homecoming” in their aim to attract Filipinos abroad particularly reaching out to the third and fourth generations to re-visit their parent’s country of origin.</p>
<p>Pinoy Homecoming is a more organized and localized programs to cater to the needs of balikbayans. They have forge partnerships with Local Government Units, commercial establishments, and Duty-free Philippines to make balikbayans visit a memorable one.  </p>
<p>Under the program, balikbayans are treated to a travel tax exemption and Visa free for a whole year, and enjoy more privileges under the Balikbayan Plus program.</p>
<p>For more information, click <a href="http://www.pinoyhomecoming.com/">www.pinoyhomecoming.com</a> </p>
<p><strong>Balikbayan Plus program</strong></p>
<p>The Balikbayan Plus program which is integrated with DOT’s Pinoy Homecoming program is also an added perk for balikbayans from Duty-free Philippines.</p>
<p>Balikbayans have the privilege to:  </p>
<ol>
<li>A tax-free shopping privilege for up to US 1,500.00 upon arrival;</li>
<li>A tax-free Kabuhayan shopping privilege of up to US2,900.00. The Kabuhyan Shopping Livelihood Program is used to buy livelihood tools and equipment.</li>
</ol>
<p> There are also free entrepreneurial training and llivelihood skills program, from OWWA, TESDA, TRC and other government and private agencies for a minimum requirement.</p>
<p> A free financial advice and assistance are also available for small business livelihood.</p>
<p>The Balikbayan/OFW Business Center at Duty free caters to a one-stop shop that will process various government requirements.</p>
<p>3. Enjoy the benefits and privileges from a Balikbayan discount card.</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://www.dfp.com.ph/">www.dfp.com.ph</a> for additional information and details.</p>
<p>a</p>
<p><a href="http://caregiversonline.org/newsbriefs-for-june-2011/">Newsbriefs for June, 2011</a></p>
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		<title>Pia Vanessa &#8211; caregiver, businesswoman</title>
		<link>http://caregiversonline.org/pia-vanessa-caregiver-businesswoman/</link>
		<comments>http://caregiversonline.org/pia-vanessa-caregiver-businesswoman/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Jun 2011 18:41:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>NannyTales</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Nanny Blog]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://caregiversonline.org/?p=569</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[(Editor&#8217;s Note: This column is supposedly MINE! Which means, I have all the liberty to pour all my angst, anger, happiness and whatnots in here and not really care. But I care, of course, that&#8217;s why I decided to share this page with fellow caregivers to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p><em><a href="http://caregiversonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/avon-lady.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-thumbnail wp-image-570" title="Pia Vanessa" src="http://caregiversonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/avon-lady-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>(Editor&#8217;s Note: This column is supposedly MINE! Which means, I have all the liberty to pour all my angst, anger, happiness and whatnots in here and not really care. But I care, of course, that&#8217;s why I decided to share this page with fellow caregivers to talk about their lives, their stories. The things that we&#8217;re passionate about, the things we do and the small victories that we achieved. So, let&#8217;s trade stories and learn from each other along the way. -Analyn Aryo) </em></p>
<p>Pia is selling well. Even her voicemail sells.</p>
<p>Pia’s voicemail says, “Hi, this is Pia, the sweetest, kind, cheerful, and super beautiful lady. So, if you think you’re cute like me, please leave your message&#8230;”</p>
<p>After the tone, you’ll find that her voice mail is full. People must have rushed to leave her messages in case they’re not cute. They are sold.</p>
<p>Pia Vanessa Domingo, is a caregiver and also a top dealer of Avon cosmetics. She ranked 9 among 208 dealers in the Thornhill area in 2009 – a remarkable feat for someone who has to juggle between her full-time as a caregiver and an Avon dealer. To be awarded as a Prestige President Dealer in the Avon Company, one must have a total personal sales amounting to 18,000CAD. Pia had a record sale of CAD 21,800.00 within eight months. Among the top dealers, Pia is the only nanny in the group. </p>
<p>This recognition she achieved did not come overnight.</p>
<p>Pia started selling Avon cosmetics a few months just after her arrival in Canada in 2007. She would bring her brochure with her whenever she brings her ward to the park. Her fellow nannies were her first customers.</p>
<p>“My ward’s stroller became my delivery truck,” she describes. When my customer’s orders arrive, the stroller would be loaded with deodorants, lipsticks, lip glosses, lotions and others. Luckily for her, her employers were very supportive. They understand that she has to make extra money since she is a single mother for her two children in the Philippines. Her employer’s house became her office where her customers would pick-up or drop off orders.</p>
<p>“Lists of orders from my customers is scattered all over the dining room. My employer would even sometime receive deliveries for me,” Pia shares.</p>
<p>From taking orders in the park, Pia realized that she can reach a higher goal: that is to become a level 1 dealer for Avon which means having a personal sale of CAD 12,800.00.</p>
<p>To reach this goal, Pia made a plan to meet at least 120 people per week and take their e-mail addresses to have wider potential customers. She was able to achieve this by distributing her brochures among her fellow Filipino at the Promenade and Centerpoint malls during Saturdays and Sundays. This is a very smart move since most Filipino nannies and their families love to head on the mall during weekends.</p>
<p>She also launched garage sales in their yard and advertised this making sign posts and posting it singlehandedly all along Bathurst Street and Thornhill areas.  She was thrilled to note that she was able to earn CAD 1, 300.00 that day!</p>
<p>Pia developed a strong customer base from her hardwork and determination. As such, she was also able to share her success with her fellow nannies. In fact, she was able to create her own Avon fashion show for the Association of Caregivers-Thornhill last May 28, 2011. Her models were all caregivers who are passionate for fashion and cosmetics. She was able to create a venue for other caregivers interested in modelling and showcasing her products at the same time. Currently, she is training other caregivers on how to become a top seller in Avon.</p>
<p>Pia admits that it is not easy to achieve one’s goal. She also has to take some risks for her to become a top dealer and maintain being one. “But I believe in the beauty of my dream and that’s why I was able to reach for it. And I wish that other nannies would also believe in the beauty of their dreams. These dreams cannot be reached in a split of a second but is the product of hardwork, determination and dedication.” Pia concludes.</p>
<p>a</p>
<p><a href="http://caregiversonline.org/pia-vanessa-caregiver-businesswoman/">Pia Vanessa &#8211; caregiver, businesswoman</a></p>
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		<title>Big Changes On Caregivers Online</title>
		<link>http://caregiversonline.org/big-changes-on-caregivers-online/</link>
		<comments>http://caregiversonline.org/big-changes-on-caregivers-online/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jun 2011 19:42:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>publisher</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://caregiversonline.org/?p=561</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I hope you like the new Caregivers Online&#8217;s New look! We&#8217;ve listened to you and want to make your visit more pleasurable.   If you subscribed through our update services, then you are getting this update in your e-mail. We&#8217;ve changed our mailing services and to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>I hope you like the new Caregivers Online&#8217;s New look!</p>
<p>We&#8217;ve listened to you and want to make your visit more pleasurable.   If you subscribed through our update services, then you are getting this update in your e-mail. We&#8217;ve changed our mailing services and to ensure you continue receiving our services, please visit the site and subscribe to our newsletter.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.caregiversonline.org">www.caregiversonline.org</a></p>
<p>Thank you for your support!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>a</p>
<p><a href="http://caregiversonline.org/big-changes-on-caregivers-online/">Big Changes On Caregivers Online</a></p>
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		<title>Caregiver Skills Training</title>
		<link>http://caregiversonline.org/caregiver-skills-training/</link>
		<comments>http://caregiversonline.org/caregiver-skills-training/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jun 2011 19:50:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>publisher</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Caregivers Services]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://caregiversonline.org/?p=552</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Power Me Up! “knowledge creates opportunity” Invest in yourself, build skills, save money and get results! The majority of caregivers we&#8217;ve spoken to didn&#8217;t choose to be caregivers.  Caregiving is an entry to the world of possibilities. While working as a caregiver, investing in yourself [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><h2><a href="http://powermeup.ca">Power Me Up!</a></h2>
<h1>“knowledge creates opportunity”</h1>
<p><strong><em>Invest in yourself, build skills, save money and get results!</em></strong></p>
<p>The majority of caregivers we&#8217;ve spoken to didn&#8217;t choose to be caregivers.  Caregiving is an entry to the world of possibilities.</p>
<p>While working as a caregiver, investing in yourself and expanding your knowledge and skills will create more opportunities for you in the near future.</p>
<p>Increasing your skills can mean increasing your value and income.  You become more valuable to your employer and can demand a higher pay.</p>
<p>Power Me Up has been training individuals and business owners become more effective in the areas of:</p>
<ul>
<li>Communication</li>
<li>Relationship</li>
<li>Work</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://powermeup.ca">Empower yourself to succeed &#8211; click here!</a></p>
<p>a</p>
<p><a href="http://caregiversonline.org/caregiver-skills-training/">Caregiver Skills Training</a></p>
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