'By supporting those who are leading this work on the ground, we will continue to build a barrier-free country'
The federal government is looking to accelerate the work that several organizations do to eliminate barriers to accessibility and inclusion faced by the disability community.
Ottawa has launched a competitive call for proposals for funding of $6 million annually, for a total of up to $18 million over three years, from national disability organizations through the Social Development Partnership Program – Disability (SDPP-D) component.
"In the spirit of 'Nothing Without Us', we are continuing to invest in organizations across Canada who are working to make their communities more disability inclusive,” says Carla Qualtrough, minister of employment, workforce development and disability inclusion. "By supporting those who are leading this work on the ground, we will continue to build the barrier-free country that all Canadians deserve."
The maximum funding available per agreement will be:
- up to $200,000 annually or $600,000 over three years for organizations not currently funded under the SDPP-D national operating stream
- up to their current funding allocation, or up to the maximum eligible amount of $200,000 annually or $600,000 over three years – whichever amount is higher, for organizations currently funded under the SDPP-D national operating stream
More than six million Canadians aged 15 and over – equivalent to 22 per cent of the population – identify as having a disability, according to the 2017 Canadian Survey on Disability. And it is expected actual numbers are likely higher, according to the federal government.
Read more: Toronto-based Lime Connect won a $50,000 grant for its support of university students and professionals (including veterans) with disabilities in accessing work.
Organizations can receive funding to increase the social inclusion of persons with disabilities in learning, work and community life, but they must build capacity in:
- governance and accountability
- effective leadership and operations
- developing and maintaining partnerships
- measurable impact
The funding aims to support such things as better strategic planning, enhanced recruitment and retention and improved analysis of policies, programs and services, according to the government.
Not-for-profit organizations can apply here until May 13, 2022.
Previously, the federal government called for feedback on changes to the Accessible Canada Act.
And in March, Ottawa said it is investing $3 million through the National Workplace Accessibility Stream for the Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW) and its Accommodation and Inclusion Management (AIM) program.
