Sault MP Terry Sheehan announces grants to improve access to programs and services
Two local organizations are receiving funding from the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF), Sault Ste. Marie MP Terry Sheehan announced this week.
The EAF is a federal grants and contributions program that supports construction projects that aim to improve the accessibility, safety and inclusion of persons with disabilities in public spaces and workplaces.
Glibota Dentistry will receive over $81,000 toward constructing an exterior ramp and retrofitting two accessible doors.
Therapeutic Ride Algoma will receive almost $4,000 toward purchasing mobility mats for increased accessibility for persons with disabilities.
“We are incredibly grateful to receive this federal funding to install an accessibility ramp at our business,” Dr. Mary-Catherine Glibota of Glibota Dentistry said.
“This investment not only helps us comply with accessibility standards, it also ensures that our doors are open to all customers. It is an important step toward fostering an inclusive environment, and we look forward to welcoming people with ease into our space.”
The funding is part of the Government of Canada’s investment of up to $14.7 million that will be allocated under the 2024 EAF small projects component call for proposals.
“We truly appreciate this opportunity to improve our program accessibility,” Lauren Mcilwrick of Therapeutic Ride Algoma said. “This will make our space more inclusive for persons with disabilities. We look forward to continuing to provide our community with adaptive riding opportunities. On behalf of the Therapeutic Ride Algoma team, thank you!”
Funding under the EAF supports the Government’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan and its goal of building a truly inclusive Canada, free of physical, societal, and attitudinal barriers, according to the MP.
“Through the Enabling Accessibility Fund, we are helping local organizations like these by supporting small-scale construction, renovation or retrofit projects that increase accessibility in community spaces or workplaces. One project at a time, we are creating a country where no one is left behind,” said Sheehan, who is also Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services and FedNor.
According to the 2022 Canada Survey on Disability, 27 per cent of Canadians aged 15 and over — or about eight million people — report as having at least one disability. The rate of disability in Canada has increased by five percentage points since 2017.
The EAF program funds vital accessible infrastructure such as ramps, automatic doors and accessible washrooms. Many organizations rely on this support so they can offer programs, services and employment opportunities to persons with disabilities.
Over 7,700 projects have been funded under the EAF since its launch in 2007, helping thousands of Canadians gain access to programs, services, and employment opportunities in their communities.
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