In a bid to champion inclusivity and support active living for individuals of all abilities, the Ontario government has announced a significant investment of $750,000 through the Inclusive Community Grants Program. The initiative, administered by the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility, aims to break down barriers, reduce social isolation, and create new opportunities for older Ontarians and people with disabilities to fully participate in community life.
Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility, emphasized the importance of inclusive communities in enabling individuals with disabilities and seniors facing mobility challenges to engage fully in community activities. He highlighted the role of the Inclusive Community Grants Program in fostering social cohesion and ensuring that all Ontarians have access to opportunities for active, healthy, and independent living.
Congratulations @stclairregionca on receiving an Inclusive Community Grant!
With this funding, they have built an #accessible trail loop with rest stops and picnic tables at Coldstream Conservation Area. pic.twitter.com/rkouGL0hj2
— Raymond Cho (@RaymondChoPC) March 13, 2024
Since its inception in 2020, the Inclusive Community Grants Program has provided vital support to 87 projects across the province, totaling up to $4.5 million in funding. This year, the program will fund 15 projects aimed at enhancing accessibility and community life in various regions of Ontario.
Among the notable projects receiving funding are:
- Abbey Gardens Community Trust in Haliburton, which will establish an accessible recreational trail system catering to people of all abilities.
- The City of Kenora’s third phase of the Norman Park Accessibility project, aiming to create the only fully accessible park in the area with lake/beach access.
- Madawaska Valley’s installation of new fully accessible, wheelchair-friendly, all-weather picnic tables in seven municipal parks.
- Sault Ste. Marie’s enhancements at Pointe Des Chenes Day Park and Beach, including updates to paths, addition of Mobi mats for beach access, and improvements to wheelchair accessibility in bathroom and change rooms.
- Tay Valley Township’s introduction of new accessible, age-friendly sports and recreation activities and programs for 300 local residents across eight rural communities.
These projects underscore Ontario’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and enhancing accessibility, ensuring that individuals of all abilities can actively participate in community life. The ongoing investment in the Inclusive Community Grants Program reflects the government’s dedication to promoting social equity and improving the quality of life for all Ontarians.
For more information about the Inclusive Community Grants Program and the projects funded in the 2023-24 cycle, interested parties can click here .
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