• The 2009 program will be offered from June 1, 2009 to October 12, 2009.
• The deadline for fully executed applications is March 1, 2009.
• Applications are available online
• Qualified applicants will have completed treatment between March 1, 2008 and March 1, 2009

If you have questions about the deadline please call us at 705-457-9100.

At this time we are unable to place those deemed palliative and those outside the above dates.

Cottage Dreams is a free service available to Ontario resident cancer survivors and was created as a way for you to spend quality time with those who helped you come through an incredibly difficult time.  Cottage Dreams promotes nature in healing and looks forward to hearing from you.  Below you will find answers to some frequently asked questions.

Who are the recipients?
When do I apply?
Is anyone able to apply?
How do we apply and what is the process?
How long is the stay?
How much does it cost to participate?
How many people can accompany me?
What happens if property damage occurs while we're there?
Can we bring the family pet?

Who are the recipients?

Ontario based adult and child recent cancer survivors who want to get away to a cottage to recover, reconnect and rebuild their lives with those who mean so much.

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When Can I Apply?

Cottage Dreams matches donated recreational properties with qualified recipients, who have completed their primary treatment between March 1, 2008 and March 1, 2009.

We strongly encourage those currently in treatment, who have been given a tentative treatment completion date to apply so they can get away shortly after completion of treatment.

Please note there is no guarantee for placement as each application is reviewed on an individual basis. The decisions of Cottage Dreams are final.

Again, you do not have to wait until your have completed your treatment to apply.  It is best to complete your application as early as possible to help us find your preferred dates and location 

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Is anyone able to apply?

Yes, any Ontario resident cancer survivor who has completed their primary treatment* within the dates stated above.

At the time of the cottage visit the guests will have completed their treatment and be feeling strong enough to  enjoy their time away and also to reduce the chance that a cancer-related emergency will occur.

*Definition of primary treatment - recent surgery, chemotherapy, radiation treatment. At this time, we are able to invite those who fall within our criteria to apply but please contact us program.support@cottagedreams.org if you are unsure if you qualify.

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How do we apply? Very Important

The application process for visitors begins upon receipt of the completed online application prior to March 1, 2009.  A fully completed application form is required to proceed. The originals must be received by Cottage Dreams on or before March 1, 2009 to qualify. This will include medical disclosure from the applicant's oncologist or physician to support his/her participation in the program.  A legal waiver releasing Cottage Dreams and the cottage owners from liability is also included.  Due to the number of applications we receive, we regret that no extensions will be granted.

An informal meeting with take place with a Cottage Dreams representative to discuss the program and answer any questions you may have. This meeting will generally take place shortly after the completed application is recieved.

The submitted medical information will be reviewed by a medical professional, who will submit a written assessment to Cottage Dreams for consideration.

Once we are satisfied the applicant is eligible, they are well to travel and have completed the informal meeting, we will finalize visit details and match the applicant's wish list with available cottages (as best we can!).

PLEASE NOTE:
Cottage Dreams is a charitable organization and operates to its maximum capacity and therefore we cannot guarantee that each applicant will be offered a placement.  As we continue to grow, we will increase the number of families that participate in the Cottage Dreams program. We appreciate your understanding.

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How long is the stay?

The cottage visiting week is Sunday 2 pm arrival and Friday 12 pm departure.  We cannot guarantee your preferred date and location but again, we will do our best to accommodate both visitors and cottage owners.

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How much does it cost to participate?

There will be no cost to participate.  Each visiting family is responsible for groceries and transportation.

How many family members are able to participate?

You may choose to spend your time away alone but if you bring guests, the maximum number will be 6 visitors per cottage including the applicant.

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What happens if there is an accident or property damage has occurred?

Prior to confirming a placement, Cottage Dreams and the designated family representative will sign a legal waiver releasing the cottage owner, Cottage Dreams and any other third party rental agency from all liability. All properties will be insured prior to the visit. With regard to cleanliness and care, we expect the visiting family to respect the generosity of the cottage owner and care for their cottage as if it were their own.

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Can we bring the family pet?

There is a strict no pet policy in place. We regret any inconvenience that this may cause and cannot make exceptions.  Special arrangements will be made for registered assistive animals. While we understand that many family pets don't pose a threat in cottage country, some pets can become distracted in the new natural setting.  Also, our property owners may have allergy issues or may simply not want pets on their property.

Can we bring any motorized vehicles?

As with the pet policy, no motorized vehicles are allowed to be used or transported to the donor for use during the week.  This includes:  motor boat (any size), Personal Watercraft, ATV's, snowmobiles, dirt bikes.