Applications now being accepted for Community Projects to Increase Accessibility

MP Bev Shipley encourages organizations to start submitting applications.

Organizations are encouraged to apply for funding for projects that will help improve accessibility in community facilities. The deadline for submissions is April 27, 2015. Proposals can involve a wide variety of projects, however priority will be given to projects that enhance access for children with disabilities (e.g. playgrounds and recreational facilities), veterans with disabilities or seniors with disabilities.

It is important to note that municipalities are also eligible to apply in support of the first priority (access for children with disabilities) since a large number of recreational facilities are under their management. As such, all municipalities, irrespective of size, have been included as eligible recipients under this priority only and are strongly encouraged to apply.

Over 11 million in funding is available through this year’s call for proposals. All applications are reviewed against eligibility criteria, call for proposal requirements and program objectives.

Application information is available on Employment and Social Development Canada’s website at http://www.esdc.gc.ca/eng/disability/eaf/

Quick Facts:

• Since the creation of the EAF in 2007, the Government of Canada has funded over 1,800 projects, helping thousands of Canadians gain better access to their communities’ facilities, programs and services.

• Under this call for proposals, organizations can receive a grant of up to $50,000.

• Examples of eligible projects could include:

• building accessible playgrounds;
• widening hallways and doorways, installing elevators and automated power doors;
• improving lighting, acoustics or contrast;
• installing accessible washrooms and service counters;
• upgrading facilities that offer programs for adults and/or children with autism and other cognitive/intellectual impairments;
• installing assistive technology, installing or updating information technology.

Backgrounder:

The Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) was originally announced in 2007 as a three-year, $45-million program to support community-based projects across Canada. Economic Action Plan 2013 extended the EAF on an ongoing basis at $15 million per year to continue to help improve communities and workplaces accessibility for Canadians with disabilities.

Since the first call for proposals in 2008, over 1,800 projects have been awarded funding to improve accessibility in Canadian communities and workplaces.

The community accessibility stream of the Enabling Accessibility Fund provides funding to eligible recipients for capital cost projects that improve accessibility. To be considered eligible for funding, projects must be directly related to removing barriers and increasing accessibility for people with disabilities in Canadian communities. All projects must also respond to funding priorities identified during the present call for proposals, including support from their community.

For further information on how to submit proposals under the current call for community-based projects, please visit: www.esdc.gc.ca/eng/disability/eaf/ .