TORONTO— The Ontario Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility, announced their plan to help vulnerable Ontarians get safe and reliable access to COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots by extending the Accessibility Drive to Vaccine program to March 31, 2022.
The Government’s investment of $3.7 million will assist people with disabilities, including seniors with mobility issues, children aged 5-11 with disabilities or mobility issues, including their parent or caregiver, who will also be eligible for this program, to get transportation to and from vaccine sites.
Accessible Drive to Vaccines is delivered in partnership with the Ontario Community Support Association. The program connects eligible individuals with rides to vaccination sites across the province, provided by staff and volunteers who will pick them up and take them home after their vaccine appointment.
Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility, commented that, “Our government is supporting Ontarians who may have trouble getting to a vaccination site due to mobility issues and lack of accessibility transportation. Extending this program will mean more people can get their vaccinations and boosters, providing greater protection from COVID-19 to all Ontarians.”
The Government’s announcement added criteria to clarify how access to this funding would work. That criteria included that: 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. One caregiver or support person can accompany the eligible individual for their vaccine appointment.
All Ontarians over age 18 are eligible for COVID-19 booster shots three months after their second dose. The Government has continued to state that vaccinations and boosters are vital in Ontario’s fight against the pandemic.
Deborah Simon, CEO of the Ontario Community Support Association, reacted to this announcement by stating, “Our community support service providers have been providing safe, reliable rides to vaccination sites for vulnerable people from the start. This funding ensures they can continue to provide this vital support, and extends the reach of these important community programs so that people can continue to get vaccinated and stay healthy and protected in this pandemic.”
The Accessible Drive to Vaccines program prioritizes people who cannot get to vaccine sites through transportation from family members, neighbours or community organizations.
Additional information can be found by going to: COVID-19: Supports for seniors and people with disabilities How to book an Accessible Drive to Vaccine