Ontario Extends Critical Delivery Program for Seniors and People with Disabilities
Deliveries of food and essentials will continue into 2021
TORONTO - September 24, 2020 — The Ontario government is extending the Ontario Community Support Program until March 2021. This will ensure that low-income seniors and people with disabilities, many who are self isolating due to COVID-19, can continue to get meals and other essential supplies delivered to their homes in the upcoming winter months.
The announcement was made today by Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility.
“Our government is committed to protecting the health and safety of Ontarians. Over the past few months, these deliveries have provided real and meaningful support directly to people with disabilities and seniors in isolation” said Minister Cho. “As we continue to work together to stop the spread of COVID-19, we will ensure that the Ontario Community Support Program will continue to be there for Ontarians with disabilities and older Ontarians when they need it most.”
The program was launched in partnership with Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) in April. Since then, it has enabled more than 230,000 deliveries of meals and essential supplies across the province, helping seniors and people with disabilities as they stayed home to protect themselves from COVID-19.
“While many Ontarians are returning to work, this pandemic is far from over for vulnerable people who need continued support to stay healthy and safe at home,” said Deborah Simon, CEO of the Ontario Community Support Association. “The extension of this program means our members can keep meeting the unprecedented demand for help and support in our communities, and provides certainty and stability for the clients they serve as we head into the second wave of this virus and upcoming flu season.”
To access the Ontario Community Support Program and request a service, visit www.ontariocommunitysupport.ca. Those without Internet access or who require service in a language other than English or French, can dial 211 or 1-877-330-3213 (toll free). TTY service is also available by calling 1-888-340-1001.
QUICK FACTS
- In April, Ontario announced the launch of the Ontario Community Support Program with an $11 million investment to support the delivery of meals, medications and other essentials to low-income seniors and people with disabilities.
- People living with physical disabilities who are in supportive housing or independent living situations, socially isolated and unable to perform activities of daily living without help are eligible to participate in the program.
- Seniors who are low income, socially isolated, with limited or no transportation options are also eligible to participate in the program.
- OCSA is a not-for-profit, community-based organization with a province-wide network providing health and well-being services.
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