April 11, 2008

Improving Accessibility for People with Disabilities

Earlier this month, a Call for Proposals was issued for the Federal Government’s new Enabling Accessibility Fund.  The money will help cover the costs of construction and renovation needed to improve accessibility for people with disabilities.

In my travels across the riding, I’ve listened to numerous people with disabilities talk about the barriers that limit their daily activities, including inaccessible buildings, inadequate support or aids and a lack of awareness. 

As a result, Canadian communities are not fully benefiting from the participation of people with disabilities.  The objective of the Enabling Accessibility Fund is to support community-based projects across Canada that improve accessibility and enable Canadians, regardless of physical ability, to participate in and contribute to their community and the economy. 

There are two components to this new program.  The first is funding for major projects and the second is money for smaller initiatives.

Major projects include such things as the construction of a new participatory abilities centre or the expansion of an existing facility to create a participatory abilities centre within Canada .  An organization may apply for a minimum of $1 million and a max im um of $15 million in funding.

Smaller eligible activities include renovations for buildings or modifications of existing vehicles within Canada that improve physical, and/or communication accessibility.  All projects must be accessible to the public and organizations may apply for a maximum of $50,000

Some examples of eligible projects include:

• - building an interior or exterior ramp;
• - installing wider doors or installing automated door openers;
• - lowering sinks or counters;
• - improving lighting and increasing colour contrast;
• - building an accessible washroom;
• - installing accessible door handles and light switches;
• - modification or enhancement of media such as an assisted listening device;
• - installing a computer that is voice-interactive; and
• - installing a wheelchair lift in a community-based vehicle.

Those interested in applying need to be non-governmental organizations, such as community-based groups and non-profit organizations; public sector organizations such as small municipalities (with a population under 250,000) and small private-sector organizations with fewer than 50 employees and under $5 million in gross annual revenue.

Information about the application process for the Enabling Accessibility Fund can be found at www.hrsdc-rhdsc.gc.ca/disability

Please note that time is of the essence.  The deadline for applications is April 30^th.  If you are not able to meet the deadline of the current Call for Proposals, there will be another chance to apply later this year.