Federal funding aimed at improving accessibility

YorkRegion.com
April 8, 2015
Chris Simon

You can improve local accessibility, thanks to a new federal fund.

Local organizations are encouraged to submit a proposal through the federal government's Enabling Accessibility Fund, which will provide cash for projects that help improve accessibility at community facilities. Proposals can involve a wide variety of projects, however, priority will be given to items that enhance access for children, veterans or seniors with disabilities.

“This is a great program that will increase accessibility right here," Newmarket-Aurora MP Lois Brown said in a media release. "I encourage local organizations to take a look at how these available funds may help them to increase accessibility in our community.”

More than $11 million in funding is available this year. All applications are reviewed against eligibility criteria, call for proposal requirements and program objectives. Under this round, organizations can receive a grant of up to $50,000. Non-profit organizations, small businesses and municipalities can apply. Eligible activities include renovation, retrofit or construction specifically designed to eliminate obstacles for people with disabilities, such as playgrounds, hallway or doorway widening, improved lighting or acoustics or the installation of assistive technology, for example.

Since the first call for proposals in 2008, more than 1,800 projects have been awarded funding.

The deadline for submissions is April 27.

SIDEBAR
For more information, visit esdc.gc.ca.