Accessibility
Accessibility Standards for Customer Service At FoodShare Toronto
FoodShare Toronto is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible environment for all of our members, including people with disabilities. We embrace the principles of dignity, independence, integration and equal opportunities to serve all of our members and our community at large.
In accordance with AODA Customer Service Standards, FoodShare Toronto has documented a series of policies and procedures that deal specifically with the following areas:
Assistive devices
We will ensure that our staff is trained and familiar with various assistive devices that may be used by members with disabilities while accessing our goods or services.
Communication
We will communicate with members in ways that take into account their abilities.
Service Animals
We welcome members with disabilities and their service animals. Service animals are allowed on parts of our premises, unless otherwise excluded by law.
Support Persons
A person with a disability who is accompanied by a support person will be allowed to have that person accompany them on our premises or to our workshops with no additional fee. A support person who chooses to purchase meals through our Good Food Café service will do so at the same fee as the general public.
Notice of Temporary Disruption
In the event of a planned or unexpected disruption to services or facilities for members with disabilities, such as the elevator, FoodShare Toronto will notify members promptly. This notice will be posted at the front entrance to our facilities with the anticipated length of time and alternative services, if available. Accommodations will be made, when available, to ensure that our members will be able to participate in our services in case of such disruptions.
Training for Staff
FoodShare Toronto will provide training to all employees, volunteers and others who deal with the public on our behalf. Training will be provided within two weeks of working within the FoodShare Organization.
Training will include:
- An overview of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 and the requirements of the customer service standard
- FoodShare Toronto’s plan related to the standard
- How to interact and communicate with people with various types of disabilities
- How to interact with people with disabilities who use an assistive device or require the assistance of a service animal or support person
- What to do if a person with a disability is having difficulty in accessing FoodShare Toronto’s goods and services
Staff and frontline volunteers will also be trained when changes are made to the plan.
Feedback Process
Members who wish to provide feedback on the way that FoodShare Toronto provides goods and services to people with disabilities can email info@foodshare.net, call 416-363-6441, give written feedback through the suggestion box located at the reception desk, or verbally provide feedback to a staff member.
All feedback will be directed to the Communications Department. Members can expect to hear back within 5 business days. Complaints will be addressed according to our organization’s regular complaint management procedures.
Modifications to this or other policies
Any policy of FoodShare Toronto that does not respect and promote the dignity and independence of people with disabilities will be modified or removed.