A key goal for the CAA was to assist healthcare workers and first responders, by enabling them to work effectively during the crisis. To achieve this, besides roadside assistance, vehicles, masks, and other medical equipment were provided throughout the country free of charge. In line with this strategy, the British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA), a CAA affiliate, and its Car Share Evo, allocated 250 vehicles for the exclusive use of healthcare workers, in partnership with local health authorities. Each car came sanitized, with a full tank, and free to be used until the end of April, with the possibility of an extension.  

Another CAA affiliated club, the CAA Club Group, distributed masks and PPE to local hospitals. Further, their CEO Jay Woo conducted weekly medical relief flights to remote hospitals in rural and Northern Ontario and delivered over 11,000 pieces of medical equipment in one weekend alone. CAA Niagara, in partnership with the Sewing Army, a North America-wide organisation of volunteers who sow face masks and scrub caps for frontline workers, was able to provide over 100 PPE to a local hospital in one week.  

Another major area of support was directed towards vulnerable users and those in need. Seniors and other vulnerable members and users were assisted with deliveries of food and medicines. For a wider reach, assistance was provided by directly supporting community charitable agencies, such as Food Banks, Meals on Wheels, and the Canadian Blood Services. The BCAA has so far delivered over 1,000 prepared food package donations to families, as well as over 2,000 PPE items to care homes across British Columbia’s Lower Mainland. Joining in the effort of food supplies, CAA Saskatchewan’s tow-truck operators helped the Regina Food Bank with the pickup and delivery of much needed non-perishable food items. The food bank’s CEO stated that the “CAA has been incredibly responsive to [the need for contactless delivery] and are playing a key role in the delivery of hampers.”  

A key concern for the CAA was connecting with vulnerable and mobility impaired members to ensure their safety.To address the issue, CCG created the Operation Outreach program, an initiative piloted in response to COVID-19 to proactively reach out to active Members aged 75+ across Manitoba and Ontario. Members were given the opportunity to chat with a live agent equipped with a script to effectively connect with Members. Also, the CAA NEO offered social check-in calls for those who are vulnerable or self-isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic.