The Ontario government is extending the Ontario Community Support Program (OCSP) until 2022 to ensure that low-income seniors and people with disabilities have access to food, medicine and other essentials during COVID-19.
The program was established in April 2020, and involves an innovative partnership with the Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) and its large volunteer base in communities across the province. During that period nearly 800,000 deliveries have been made.
“The Ontario Community Support Program is a made-in-Ontario success story that shows the true Ontario spirit, and our government offers our thanks to the army of dedicated workers and volunteers,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Through the generous and tireless efforts of these people, Ontarians with disabilities and older Ontarians have the food and necessities they need to stay home and stay safe.”
The OCSP operates in communities across the province by matching volunteer services with seniors, people with disabilities and other vulnerable Ontarians through an online registration system. Volunteers are stepping up in significant numbers to give their time and efforts to fellow Ontarians who need support to meet the challenges of COVID-19.
“This program is critical because it keeps our seniors and people with disabilities safe, by allowing them to receive essential items like food and medicine right at their door, without the need to go out during the pandemic,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “Extending this program will ensure that we continue to support our most vulnerable when they need it most.”
During the Fall Economic Update, the government announced plans to extend the program until March, 2022, in recognition of its positive impact on vulnerable Ontarians.
Seniors, people with disabilities, and others in need of assistance, including mental health supports can connect to essential services in their community by visiting www.211ontario.ca. Services are available 7 days a week in over 150 languages.
