The Government of Canada Improves Accessibility for Canadians

The goal of the EAF is to promote vibrant communities that benefit from the participation of people with varying abilities in everyday life activities. Projects include the renovations of buildings, the modifications of existing vehicles or other improvements that make the physical environment, information and/or communication more accessible for all Canadians regardless of their physical ability.

"Our government is committed to helping all Canadians have full access to opportunities and services in their communities," said Minister Solberg. "These investments through the Enabling Accessibility Fund will help people with disabilities by improving access to facilities that many people take for granted. This is why I am very proud to announce that under the first tranche of the EAF, we will support 165 projects."

The EAF supports both small and major community-based projects across Canada. Funding for small projects improves accessibility and enables Canadians who are living with a disability to participate in and contribute to their communities and the economy. Projects may include installing ramps, improving lighting, building accessible washrooms and installing voice-interactive computers.

Funding for major projects under EAF provides contributions for participatory abilities centres for either the construction of new centres or the expansion of existing centres. The objective of abilities centres is to enrich the quality of life of people with varying abilities by helping them develop the skills required to achieve goals as well as the knowledge, confidence and opportunity to lead healthy, active lifestyles in their communities. These centres emphasize a holistic approach to individuals with a focus on social and labour-market integration.

Today's announcement includes two large projects. In Calgary, the Genesis Centre of Community Wellness project supports the construction of a 225,000 square foot complex to meet the recreational needs of people in Calgary's growing northeast neighbourhoods, including those with disabilities. The barrier-free building will offer fitness activities, educational services and various programs to meet Calgary's urgent need for an accessible and affordable recreational infrastructure.

In Whitby, the project supports the Abilities Centre Durham, which plans to build a fully accessible recreational, athletic and performing arts facility that will be used by individuals and groups of all ages who have varying abilities. It is planned that the Abilities Centre Durham will be an international leader in helping people of all ages focus on their abilities and enhance their confidence and independence. The organization will also provide supportive services such as life management counselling, training and assistance in order to gain employment.

Today's announcement also includes 163 smaller projects. The EAF provides grants of up to $50,000 for small projects enabling accessibility. Projects will improve accessibility and increase social and economic participation for people living with disabilities. All projects must be accessible to the public.

A list of all projects is included in the backgrounder. Federal financial support for these EAF projects is conditional on the projects' meeting all EAF eligibility requirements and those of other applicable federal programs, including the successful conclusion of an EAF contribution agreement and secured financing.

For more information about the program, please visit http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/en/disability_issues/eaf/call2008/index.shtml or call 1-866-268-2502.

This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.

The backgrounder is available at the following address: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/kkk.pdf

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