Homecare PSWs Are Running On Empty

Skyrocketing gas prices are negatively affecting every Ontarian. But those who care for our most vulnerable citizens in their homes face a disheartening daily decision: fill up your gas tank to visit clients or afford to pay your bills.

Unfair Mileage Rates Are Hurting Homecare

Sadly, the personal support workers (PSWs) working in homecare are being negatively impacted more than most. The low mileage rates offered to them by their employers are making it increasingly difficult for them to make a living wage.

In an April 2022 survey conducted on homecare PSWs in the Durham Region:

  • 96 percent of those polled felt they are not being adequately reimbursed for the mileage they clock travelling to and from their clients’ homes

  • 75 percent of those considering leaving their current role or who are actively pursuing other work plan on leaving the homecare sector altogether

  • 60 percent spend $75 to upward of $100 on gas each week travelling between clients’ homes

  • 43 percent drive more than 100 kilometres each week in their duties as a PSW

Help Us Help Them

Homecare PSWs are the lifeblood of the province, sometimes travelling upwards of 200 kilometres each day to care for our sick and elderly.

If you feel strongly about this issue, show your support by reaching out to your member of provincial parliment or the Minister of Health.

Order your FREE campaign stickers, car decals, buttons, and more. The more visibility we have, the greater the impact we can make.

For More Information:

ParaMed employees picket Extendicare head office, June 29, 2022 (PHOTOS)

Gas prices punishing personal support workers, hurting home-care | The Star

Skyrocketing gas prices mean Durham’s homecare patients are being left behind (clac.ca)

OPINION: Out-of-control gas prices are putting home care at risk (Toronto Sun)

Forced to Choose: Ontario Homecare Workers Struggling Amid Rising Gas Prices (clac.ca)

Letter to Extendicare re: Mileage Reimbursement Rates (clac.ca)

Are you a homecare worker looking to join a union that cares?

CLAC advocates for your rights, answers the phone when you call, and shows up when you need them.

If you are interested in learning more about CLAC, please fill out the form below.

Contact Us

Who is CLAC?

CLAC is a national union representing over 60,000 workers in almost every sector of the economy. Based on values of respect, dignity, and fairness, CLAC is committed to building better workplaces, better communities, and better lives.

Learn More