Program will help people with mobility issues receive their vaccine shots

June 22, 2021

Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility

TORONTO — Building on recent success in getting millions of people vaccinated, the Ontario government is investing $3.7 million in a partnership with the Ontario Community Support Association to help people with disabilities, including seniors with mobility issues, get to and from vaccination sites so they can get their shot and help stop the spread of COVID-19.

To date, over three-quarters of all adults in Ontario have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, with nearly 26 per cent fully immunized. The Accessible Drive To Vaccines program will ensure that anyone who wants a vaccine is able to by connecting eligible individuals with staff and volunteers who will drive them to and from local vaccination sites across the province. This includes individuals who have not yet received their first shot, or anyone who may require additional support to access their second.

“Our government understands that some Ontario residents may face barriers in traveling to a vaccination site,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “This program will ensure that transportation is not a barrier to vaccination. It will help many Ontarians with mobility issues get vaccinated.”

This initiative will focus on helping people who do not have access to accessible transportation through family, neighbours or community organizations.

“In many communities across Ontario, the dedicated staff and volunteers who work in the community support sector have been providing safe rides to vaccination sites for several months,” said Deborah Simon, OCSA’s Chief Executive Officer. “As demand continues to grow, we’re pleased to be involved in coordinating this project, which recognizes, supports, and extends the capacity of these hard-working organizations to help vulnerable people protect themselves against COVID-19.”

Getting as many Ontarians as possible vaccinated is a critical part of the government’s strategy to fight COVID-19.

Quick Facts

Individuals must have a vaccine appointment booked for the date of transportation requested. Eligible individuals must be a person with a disability within the meaning of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005.
Depending on logistics it may be the same driver both ways or two separate drivers. One caregiver or support person will also be permitted to accompany the person on this accessible transportation initiative.

Additional Resources

– COVID-19: Supports for seniors and people with disabilities
– 2021 Budget – Ontario’s Action Plan: Protecting People’s Health and Our Economy

Media Contacts

Elric Pereira
Minister’s office
elric.pereira@ontario.ca

Media Desk

Communications Branch
msaa.media@ontario.ca