BryanHayes        Supplied by Sault MP Bryan Hayes… Sault Ste. Marie, ON – Bryan Hayes, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie, on behalf of the Honourable Candice Bergen, Minister of State for Social Development, today encouraged local organizations to submit their projects for consideration under the newly launched Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) Call for Proposals.

Organizations are encouraged to apply for funding for projects that will help improve accessibility in community facilities. The deadline for submissions is April 27, 2015. Proposals can involve a wide variety of projects; however priority will be given to projects that enhance access for children with disabilities (e.g. playgrounds and recreational facilities), veterans with disabilities or seniors with disabilities.

It is important to note that municipalities are also eligible to apply in support of the first priority (access for children with disabilities) since a large number of recreational facilities are under their management.  As such, all municipalities, irrespective of size, have been included as eligible recipients under this priority only and are strongly encouraged to apply.

Over 11 million in funding is available through this year’s call for proposals.  All applications are reviewed against eligibility criteria, call for proposal requirements and program objectives.

Application information is available on Employment and Social Development Canada’s website at http://www.esdc.gc.ca/eng/disability/eaf/

Quick Facts ” Since the creation of the EAF in 2007, the Government of Canada has funded over 1,800 projects, helping thousands of Canadians gain better access to their communities’ facilities, programs and services.

” Under this call for proposals, organizations can receive a grant of up to $50,000.

” Examples of eligible projects could include:  ” building accessible playgrounds; ” widening hallways and doorways, installing elevators and automated power doors; ” improving lighting, acoustics or contrast; ” installing accessible washrooms and service counters; ” upgrading facilities that offer programs for adults and/or children with autism and other cognitive/intellectual impairments; ” installing assistive technology, installing or updating information technology.

Quotes

“This is a great program that will increase accessibility right here in Sault Ste. Marie.  I encourage organizations and the municipality to take a look at how these available funds may help with a project such as increasing accessibility in a playground or recreational facility.  We want to ensure that all Canadians can participate fully in our communities. – Bryan Hayes, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie