New program will help people with disabilities and seniors stay safe and engaged in their neighbourhoods
November 9, 2020 Seniors and Accessibility
TORONTO — Ontario is investing $2 million over two years through its new Inclusive Community Grants program to strengthen communities and provide local opportunities for older adults and people with disabilities. Municipalities and local organizations can use the funding towards projects such as:
- undertaking local needs assessments to determine gaps in existing supports for seniors and people with disabilities;
- developing action plans and implementing virtual programs;
- retrofitting buildings with ramps and accessible washrooms; and
- installing self-serve kiosks with software that people with vision or hearing loss can use.
"Our government is committed to helping seniors and people with disabilities stay safe, active and socially connected, especially during COVID-19," said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. "After hosting numerous consultations with Ontario's seniors and disability advocates, we have heard our older adults want services that will keep them engaged and have strong ties with their neighbours and communities. Our government's new Inclusive Community Grants program will support projects that allow Ontarians of all ages and abilities to participate in local programs across our great province."
Through the Inclusive Community Grant, municipalities and local organizations across Ontario can receive up to $60,000 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 government is committed to working cooperatively with municipalities and local organizations to create community-based supports that enable aging in one's own home and focus on aspects of daily life that reflect the individual needs of all Ontarians, including housing, transit, healthcare and economic opportunities.
Quick Facts
- Grant applications for the Inclusive Community Grant are open now. The last day to submit applications is on: December 21, 2020.
- 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 focus on both the physical and social dimensions that contribute to independent and active living, leading to benefits such as improved accessibility, walkability, and safety of communities.