York Region's most vulnerable benefit from grants, province says

Yorkregion.com
July 7, 2016
By Ali Raza

Ontario’s most vulnerable citizens are getting a helping hand from the province, starting with $756,200 for community agencies in Markham and the surrounding area.

Minister of Community and Social Services and Oak Ridges-Markham MPP Helena Jaczek made an announcement today at Participation House in Markham of the province’s plan to provide grants to repair and upgrade community agencies’ facilities.

Participation House serves 114 men and women ranging in ages from 20 to 86 across seven different sites in York Region. The agency aims to enhance the quality of life of people with disabilities through a variety of services.

“People here have an education room, some residents learn how to handle money, how to be part of society, how to take the bus,” Jaczek said. “I think people in general believe we should care for people and provide a safe environment and encourage them to be part of our community.”

Its Markham facility, near Markham Stouffville Hospital, is set to receive $440,600 in funding. The funding will go to repair the driveways and the air conditioning system, while a new roof, new flooring and new brickwork will be installed as well.

In total, the government of Ontario is investing $16 million across the province to more than 170 community agencies as part of its annual Partner Facility Renewal (PFR) program.

“PFR grants are provided to agencies that provide support and services to the developmental disabilities,” Jaczek said. “To women and children who have experienced domestic violence, to First Nations for their culturally appropriate indigenous healing and wellness services, and also for interpreter services for the deaf and blind.”

A press release from the province explains PFR is part of the government’s four-part plan to grow the economy and create jobs. More funding announcements will be made this summer across Ontario. Community agencies received $16 million last year as well.

Other agencies in the Markham area set to receive funding include $67,000 for Christian Horizons, $78,000 for Community Living Toronto, $6,500 for Community Living York South, $86,200 for L’Arche Daybreak, $120,700 for Vita Community Living Services and $21,800 for Xeorixs Homes.

“Decisions (on funding) are made by administrative staff,” Jaczek said. “We have five administrative regions across the province … some (agencies) are more urgent than others, it’s all done on a priority-basis.”

So far, approved projects for the agencies include accessible washroom upgrades, window replacements, furnace repairs, carbon monoxide and fire alarm installations, roof repairs and expanding program space.