Ontario Supporting Inclusive Communities for All Ages and Abilities

Province’s investment will help people participate and stay connected to their neighbourhoods

TORONTO — The Ontario Government is investing $2.9 million through the Inclusive Community Grants program to support 55 diverse community projects that will keep people of all ages and abilities healthy and engaged across the province. This funding will help municipal partners, Indigenous groups and community organizations strengthen and build more inclusive communities.

“These projects will make a huge difference in the quality of life for older adults and people with disabilities,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “Through the Inclusive Community Grants we are taking steps to ensure that municipalities and local organizations are able to make our communities more inclusive and accessible – it’s a great example of what we can achieve when we work together!”

Projects being supported by this year’s Inclusive Community Grants include:

  • Making public buildings and outdoor spaces more accessible in 13 rural communities in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock;
  • Accessibility upgrades for public beach access in Kenora;
  • Establishing an Age-Friendly Francophone community in London;
  • Wellness outreach and service referrals for rural seniors in Sudbury-St. Charles;
  • Refresher driving courses for seniors in Chatham-Kent; and
  • Culturally appropriate resources (medicine to pray, smudge and wear) for Haudenosaunee Elders at Six Nations.

Municipalities and local organizations across Ontario can receive up to $60,000 through Inclusive Community Grants for projects that foster inclusive community involvement for older adults and people of all abilities, using the province’s age-friendly community planning guide.

The program is part of the government’s plan to help older adults and people with disabilities become more active in their local communities.

QUICK FACTS

  • Fifteen per cent of Ontarians have a disability and this number will increase as the population ages.
  • By 2023, there will be 3 million Ontarians over the age of 65 – older adults are the province’s fastest growing demographic.
  • Inclusive and Age-Friendly Communities work to promote accessibility, safety and active living for older adults and people with disabilities.

SOURCE  Province of Ontario

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