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.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Programs and services to help seniors be healthy, active and engaged

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OCSA Joins Communities Across Ontario to Celebrate March For Meals 2025

By Karla Sealy • March 1, 2025

ONTARIO, March 1, 2025 - This March, the Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) is proud to stand with communities across Ontario in support of March for Meals, an annual campaign highlighting the essential role of Meals on Wheels programs. Delivered in 181 communities across the province, these programs provide nutritious meals, social connection, and safety checks for vulnerable seniors and adults with disabilities. Meals on Wheels Ontario, with the support of belairdirect, encourages Ontarians to show their support for March for Meals and the local Meals on Wheels programs that serve their communities. Together, these programs deliver over 3 million meals annually and provide vital assistance to nearly 70,000 Ontarians. As the demand for nutritious and affordable meals grows, so too do the challenges faced by local programs—including underfunding and volunteer shortages. Now more than ever, community support is essential to ensuring these programs continue to provide a lifeline to those who need it most. “Meals on Wheels programs are a cornerstone of home and community care in Ontario, ensuring that seniors and adults with disabilities have access to healthy meals, social connection, and safety checks,” says Deborah Simon, CEO of OCSA. “However, these programs face growing demand and funding challenges. March for Meals is an opportunity for all Ontarians to rally around these essential services and support their sustainability so that no one is left behind.” During the month of March, community-based Meals on Wheels programs across the province will host special events, engage local officials, and encourage community participation to raise awareness and support for these critical services. OCSA invites Ontarians to learn more about the impact of Meals on Wheels and explore ways to get involved. For more information on March for Meals and how you can support your local Meals on Wheels program, visit Meals on Wheels Ontario . About OCSA The Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) champions a strong, sustainable home and community care sector in Ontario. The association represents over 220 not-for-profit organizations that deliver high-quality services that help seniors, people with disabilities, and those with complex care needs remain independent in their homes and communities. These proactive and cost-effective services prevent unnecessary hospitalizations, emergency room visits and premature institutionalization. For more information visit www.ocsa.on.ca or @OCSATweets For media inquiries please contact: Karla Sealy (she/her) Manager of Communications 416-256-3010/1-800-267-6272, ext 242 karla.sealy@ocsa.on.ca