IN THE NEWS
A mental health agency with a 4.7-star Google Review Rating!
A-Way Express is an Ontario Health-funded alternative business located in East Toronto Health Partners’ (ETHP) catchment area. A-Way employs people with lived experience of mental health and substance use challenges in a courier business and offers unique employment services. According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, unemployment rates might otherwise be as high as 70% to 90% for those with the most severe illnesses.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, A-Way has been an essential services provider on two counts — as a community mental health agency and a courier delivery service. With help from ETHP partners who provide regular information and resources, A-Way has had zero workplace-place related COVID-19 cases.
Research has proven repeatedly that alternative businesses save Ontario’s health system millions of dollars every year by reducing the use of mental health crisis services and in-patient days. By addressing social determinants of health, A-Way supports employees and services users on their recovery journeys, reducing demand on the broader health system.
Health care organizations like WoodGreen Community Services, LOFT Community Services, South Riverdale Community Health Centre, Red Door Family Shelter, The Neighbourhood Group and Inner City Health Associates use A-Way Express services regularly.
A-Way delivery and customer service are truly outstanding, and it helps us so much, especially as a health care agency during COVID, to have a courier service we can rely on!
– Shannon, Inner City Health Associates
Every delivery makes a local impact!
How does A-Way earn a 4.7-star Google Review Rating?
It’s simple, really. We level the playing field for our couriers.
Wraparound supports for A-Way employees include job success coaching, learning and wellness programming, supplementary groceries from our food pantry, access to a Fred Victor community social worker and referrals as needed to health, housing and income support services.
Most important of all are the peer relationships formed at A-Way Express. Our employees tell us that being able to talk about mental health openly in a work environment is “liberating!”
At A-Way Express, great delivery services are the byproduct of a work environment that works for our employees.
You can learn more about A-Way Express delivery services at www.awayexpress.ca