Canadian Hard of Hearing Association - Manitoba Chapter

Overview

The Canadian Hard of Hearing Association (CHHA) - Manitoba Chapter is a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of people with hearing loss. It is registered as a charity with the Canada Revenue Agency under the number 131620742RR0001, ensuring that its activities are compliant with national regulations. As a provincial branch of the larger Canadian Hard of Hearing Association, the Manitoba Chapter focuses on supporting individuals with hearing impairments, promoting public understanding, and advocating for their rights.

Mission and Philosophy

The mission of the CHHA Manitoba Chapter is to enhance the lives of hard-of-hearing Manitobans by raising public awareness about issues related to hearing loss. It aims to foster the integration of individuals with hearing impairments into their communities and remove barriers to their full participation in society. The organization's philosophy emphasizes empowering individuals with hearing loss to be knowledgeable consumers who can effectively meet their needs.

Services and Activities

The Manitoba Chapter provides several essential services to support those with hearing loss:

• Public Education: The organization offers public education on hearing loss and related issues, contributing to better awareness and understanding among the general public.
• Support Services: It provides support for people with cochlear implants and those who have become deafened, offering them resources and a sense of community.
• Support Group Meetings: Regular support group meetings are held in Winnipeg to help individuals cope with hearing loss.
• Speech Reading Classes: The organization offers classes in speech reading (lip reading), enhancing communication skills for those with hearing impairments.
• Quarterly Newsletter: A quarterly newsletter is published to keep members informed about relevant topics and updates.
• Hospital Kits: CHHA Manitoba provides hospital kits designed to assist hard-of-hearing patients during their hospital stays.

Membership and Governance

Membership in the CHHA Manitoba Chapter is open to individuals and families, with annual fees applying. A portion of the membership fees remains within the provincial chapter, while the remainder supports national CHHA activities. Members receive a membership card indicating their paid status and regular emails from CHHA. The organization is structured as a self-help consumer group run by and for hard-of-hearing individuals. General meetings are held four times a year, featuring presentations on topics of interest to members and the broader community.

Role in Advocacy

As part of the larger Canadian Hard of Hearing Association network, the Manitoba Chapter plays a crucial role in advocating for the rights of hard-of-hearing Manitobans. It works to create a more inclusive society where individuals with hearing loss can fully participate in community life.