Canadian Hearing Society

Canadian Hearing Society

The Canadian Hearing Society (CHS) is a non-profit organization in Canada that provides services, products, and information to Deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Established in 1940, the CHS aims to remove communication barriers and promote equity for people with hearing loss.

History

The Canadian Hearing Society was founded in 1940 in Toronto, Ontario. It was established to address the needs of Deaf and hard of hearing Canadians, providing them with resources and support. Over the years, the organization has expanded its services across Canada, becoming a leading advocate for hearing health and accessibility.

Services

The CHS offers a wide range of services to support Deaf and hard of hearing individuals. These services include:

• Hearing Healthcare: The CHS provides hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, and other audiology services to help individuals manage their hearing loss.
• Communication Devices: The organization offers a variety of assistive devices, such as amplified telephones and alerting systems, to improve communication for those with hearing loss.
• Interpreting Services: CHS provides American Sign Language (ASL) and other interpreting services to facilitate communication in various settings, including medical appointments and legal proceedings.
• Employment Services: The CHS assists Deaf and hard of hearing individuals in finding and maintaining employment through job search support, resume writing, and interview preparation.
• Counselling Services: The organization offers counselling and support groups to help individuals and families cope with the challenges of hearing loss.

Advocacy

The Canadian Hearing Society is actively involved in advocacy efforts to promote accessibility and inclusion for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals. The organization works with government bodies, businesses, and community groups to improve policies and practices related to hearing health and accessibility.

Education and Awareness

CHS is committed to raising awareness about hearing loss and Deaf culture. The organization provides educational resources and workshops to schools, employers, and the general public to foster understanding and acceptance of hearing diversity.

Partnerships

The Canadian Hearing Society collaborates with various organizations and institutions to enhance its services and reach. These partnerships help CHS to deliver comprehensive support and resources to the Deaf and hard of hearing community.

See Also

• Deaf culture
• Hearing loss
• American Sign Language
• Accessibility