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Ontario Investing in More Accessible Communities

TORONTO – The Ontario government is providing up to $1.5 million this year to not-for-profits and organizations across the province so they can develop tools and educational resources to raise awareness about the value and benefits of accessibility and help make Ontario open to people of all abilities.

“We are moving forward on the journey to make Ontario more accessible and inclusive,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “The projects our government supports through the EnAbling Change Program are one more way we are ensuring Ontario is accessible for everyone.”

“The EnAbling Change Program is the next step in our government’s efforts to build a more accessible Ontario,” said Graham McGregor, MPP for Brampton North. “The funding provided through this program will help not-for-profit organizations, including many right here in Brampton, to promote accessibility in the workplace and community and foster a more inclusive Ontario.”

Applications for the 2023-24 EnAbling Change Program funding are open now through to June 29 and will focus on projects that create equitable opportunities in the labour market, drive a culture of respect and dignity for people with disabilities, and support awareness and regulatory compliance of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).

Examples of projects currently funded through the 2022-23 program include:

  • up to $150,000 to the Ontario Tourism Education Corporation (OTEC) to deliver an employer awareness campaign providing sector leaders with disability awareness training.
  • up to $119,800 to Retail Council of Canada helps retailers through its “EnAbling Change for Retailers – Creating an Inclusive Culture within the Retail Store” project.
  • up to $119,125 to Breaking Down Barriers An Independent Living Centre Inc. “Start the Conversation AODA 2025” includes guides and workshops that cover areas such as accessible customer service, digital accessibility and the design of public spaces.
  • up to $150,000 to Peel Career Assessment Services Inc. for its “Ability Works” project to help people with disabilities access equitable employment opportunities and employers support inclusive employment.
  • up to $36,750 to the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board is updating the board’s Special Education Plan, Individual Education Plan Guide and Alternative Report Card. People with disabilities will be included in planning stages and a summary report will be provided to stakeholders to drive a culture of respect and dignity.
  • up to $116,438 to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) “CNIB Kids – Inclusive and Accessible Education in Ontario” project. Fully accessible presentations will be made in schools across Ontario and will provide accessibility and sight loss education, and challenge stigmas.
  • up to $16,450 to Carassauga Festival Inc. to help event organizers plan, assess and deliver accessible events through its “Accessibility at the Festival – Celebrating Inclusion and Diversity” project.
  • up to $104,516 to ParaGolf Ontario “Driving Toward InclusiON – changing attitudes and increasing opportunities for everybody in the sport of golf” project. The program features new teaching guidelines, coach and ambassador training, and golf events for all abilities.

The Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility’s Age-friendly and accessibility grants web page has information on how to apply for the 2023-24 EnAbling Change Program.

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