Media Release – August 11, 2022 – Adult Bike Drive supports those in need

Media Release
For Immediate Release
August 11, 2022

ADULT BIKE DRIVE SUPPORTS THOSE IN NEED

PARRY SOUND, ON – In partnership with Parry Sound Bikes and Canadian Tire Parry Sound, the District of Parry Sound Social Services Administration Board (DSSAB) will be accepting new or gently used bikes at their Parry Sound Office every Monday during the month of August between the hours of 8:30am to
4:30pm as part of their Greener Pathways Adult Bike Drive.

“Here at the DSSAB, our Mission is to foster healthier communities by providing caring human services that empower the people we serve to improve their quality of life,” said JJ Blower, Communications Officer for the District of Parry Sound Social Services Administration Board. “This project is a great example of how we can put our words into action by empowering the people we serve to improve their mental & physical well-being, strengthen their independence, attend appointments, and support their employment.”

Bikes will be received by donation throughout the month of August, repaired if needed, and equipped with safety gear, before being donated to those in need in September. The concept of this project is credited to one of the DSSAB’s own Ontario Works Case Workers who saw the transportation barriers that many people were facing and developed the Greener Pathways Adult Bike Drive.

“This is a great staff-led initiative”, said Tammy MacKenzie, Chief Administrative Officer at the DSSAB. “Ingenuity, innovation, and initiative are attributes that we seek in all of our staff, as they are our closest link to the community and are best able to recognize the needs of those we serve. The collection of these bikes will help us reduce a barrier for those in need by providing them with access to free transportation.”

Bikes can be dropped off at the DSSAB office located at 1 Beechwood Drive in Parry Sound on Mondays this month, between 8:30-4:30pm. To make alternate arrangements for dropping off donations, please contact the DSSAB at 705-746-7777. Adults in financial need who are looking to request a bike are asked to contact the Parry Sound DSSAB office at 705-746-7777 to have their name added to the waitlist.

About the Ontario Works program: The DSSAB is the Service Manager for Ontario Works program throughout the District of Parry Sound. The focus of the Ontario Works program is to provide financial, employment and life stabilization support to those in need. Case workers provide personalized service and can
help clients navigate the broader system of supports and services available within the community.
To apply for Ontario works, please visit www.psdssab.org/ontarioworks

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For more information, please contact:
JJ Blower
Communications Officer
jblower@psdssab.org
(705) 746-7777 ext. 5264