London, Ontario, July 5, 2012—Three organizations in London are increasing accessibility for people with disabilities to enable them to participate more fully in their community through investments by the federal government. The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, Regional Minister for Southwestern Ontario and Member of Parliament for Haldimand–Norfolk made the announcement today.
“Our government recognizes the abilities of all Canadians and is committed to removing barriers for people with disabilities,” said Minister Finley. “We are proud to work with the London Employment Help Centre, Scouts Canada and the London Potters Guild in helping Canadians gain greater access to facilities, programs and services here in London.”
Through the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund, the London Employment Help Centre is purchasing and installing automated door openers and purchasing computers to meet the needs of individuals with hearing and visual disabilities. Scouts Canada – Tri Shores Council is improving accessibility to its washroom and shower facilities, creating two barrier-free entrances and making its storage area and fire exit accessible. The London Potters Guild is making multiple improvements to its facility including its entrances, the washroom area and its parking lot.
Through the Enabling Accessibility Fund, the Government of Canada has supported over 800 projects across the country, including 192 new projects totalling $6.4 million that were recently approved.
To learn more about the Fund, visit www.hrsdc.gc.ca/disability.
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For more information, contact:
Marian Ngo
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and
Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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Enabling Accessibility Fund
The Enabling Accessibility Fund was originally announced in 2007 as a three-year, $45-million program to support community-based projects across Canada. In 2010, the Fund was extended with an additional three-year, $45-million commitment and the creation of a new mid-sized component.
Our government’s top priorities are job creation, economic growth and long-term prosperity, and an additional benefit of the Enabling Accessibility Fund is that it creates jobs in construction and renovation, many of which are in smaller communities. Since the first call for proposals in 2008, over 800 projects have been awarded funding to improve accessibility in Canadian communities.
As part of the government’s continued commitment to supporting Canadians with disabilities, Canada’s Economic Action Plan 2012 also provided an additional $30 million invested over three years in the Opportunities Fund. This funding will enable more Canadians with disabilities to obtain work experience with small- and medium-sized businesses. As well, through the Registered Disability Savings Plan, beneficiaries and their families will have increased flexibility to establish, contribute to and get access to savings from their plans.
