In Canada, persons with disabilities continue to face barriers to inclusion, and these barriers have only been exacerbated by COVID-19.
The Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough, announced an investment of more than $15.5 million for 218 projects under the Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) small projects. These projects will build communities that are more accessible to persons with disabilities, enabling them to more fully participate in day-to-day life and access important community services.
The EAF supports construction projects across the country aimed at improving the accessibility, safety and inclusion of persons with disabilities. This year, the small projects component of the EAF introduced a new simplified application process that provides more flexibility to organizations seeking funding of up to $100,000 per project.
The program funds important infrastructure such as ramps, automatic doors and accessible washrooms that persons with disabilities rely on. The EAF also supports organizations that break down barriers for persons with disabilities through programs, services and employment opportunities.
Minister Qualtrough also highlighted that organizations that have partnered with eligible Youth Accessibility Leaders have until Monday November 30 to submit funding applications for the . The EAF Youth Innovation Component offers youth the opportunity to have a direct impact in the lives of persons with disabilities by making their community more accessible.
