Millions of Canadian low-income seniors eligible for free smartphone from TELUS

Dec 17 2020, 6:23 pm

While the pandemic has impacted the well-being and mental health of all Canadians, it’s been particularly hard on older family members, friends, neighbours and fellow citizens who have had to isolate from loved ones to stay safe.

This is why TELUS has launched a new program called TELUS Mobility for Good for Seniors to directly address the isolation, loneliness and other significant challenges faced by millions of low-income seniors that have been heightened throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2.2 million Canadian seniors on the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) from the federal government can now get a free refurbished smartphone while supplies last or bring their own device and receive a subsidized rate plan from TELUS.

This will enable them to stay safely connected to family and friends as well as vital information and resources – including the federal government’s COVID-19 alert app – through access to mobile devices and plans.

The TELUS Mobility for Good for Seniors subsidized rate plan includes 3GB of high-speed wireless data per month with Peace of Mind and unlimited Canada wide talk & text for $25 per month (plus applicable taxes). There is no long-term contract or cancellation fees, and digital literacy support is available at TELUS Learning Centres. Program members will also have access to free TELUS Wise workshops and resources, empowering them to participate safely in the digital world.

Photo by fizkes

You can apply for the TELUS Mobility for Good for Seniors program if you receive the GIS benefit and can provide your Old Age Security statement, also known as the T4A(OAS), indicating an amount paid to you in box 21 (net supplements paid).

Here are the steps you need to take to apply for the program:

  • Confirm that you are eligible

  • To protect your privacy, black out your SIN and OAS numbers on your Old Age Security document, leaving only the last 4 digits visible

  • Send your approved documentation via:

Email[email protected] (preferred)

Mail: TELUS, Attention: Mobility for Good Program

510 West Georgia Street – Floor 23

Vancouver, BC V6B 0M3

Applicants are asked to include their full name, return address, email address (if applicable) and contact phone number so TELUS can contact you about your application.

“At a time when the human connection has never been more important, TELUS remains committed to ensuring all Canadians can stay connected to the people and information that matter the most,” said Darren Entwistle, TELUS President and CEO.

“Throughout the pandemic, our globally leading network has enabled Canadians to work and learn remotely, access critical government resources, receive medical support and stay in touch with family and friends. Our country’s seniors have contributed significantly to the fabric of this nation, having built and supported the infrastructure, economy and social services that we enjoy today. Disconcertingly, these same elderly Canadians have been disproportionately impacted throughout the health emergency as many have had to isolate from loved ones and support networks in order to stay safe.

“Through Mobility for Good for Seniors, we are providing some of our most vulnerable Canadians with access to the vital tools and resources they need to stay safely and meaningfully connected, and in time for the holiday season.”

For additional details on TELUS Mobility for Good for Seniors, visit telus.com/mobilityforgood. More information can be found by following @TELUSNews on Twitter and @Darren_Entwistle on Instagram.

Daniel ChaiDaniel Chai

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