Sudbury MPP Jamie west was among many Northern Ontario political leaders who spoke out last week about the need to lend financial support to Hope Air, the not-for-profit service that provides flights and accommodations for people and families that need help for non-emergency medical travel.
West spoke out in the Ontario Legislature to urge the Conservative government to improve access to healthcare for Northern communities. West mentioned the plight of a sick child named Chas and the struggles of his family.
"Chas's family has to travel all the way to Toronto's SickKids hospital for care with little support from the government. During an affordability crisis, Chas and his family had to pay for hotel, gas, and food, up front. Then, they could apply for the Northern Health Travel Grant and hope that in 6-8 weeks, they get some, and only some, of the money back."
As June 7th was declared Hope Air Day in Sudbury and across the North, West was also pushing for funding for Hope Air, a charity that provides free flights and services for patients living in underserved and remote communities. Provincial support for Hope Air would go a long way in relieving families, said a new release from West's office.
"Municipalities are waking up to the crisis and doing everything they can to bring awareness. Now it's the Conservative government's turn to invest in our healthcare workers, into Ontarians, and into a better future for all," said West.
"People should be able to access health care no matter where they live, and this government could make that a reality today."
The Ontario NDP is calling on the Conservatives to finally address the Northern Health Travel Grant and ensure it stays in line with the cost of living in the province so Northern Ontarians can get the care they deserve, said the release.