OTTAWA – Budget 2007 announced the creation of a $45 million Enabling Accessibility Fund. The fund will provide money for projects that will allow people with disabilities to participate more fully in their communities.

“At present, Canada is not fully benefiting from the employment potential, skills and talents of people with disabilities,” said Lauzon.  “Likewise, people with disabilities in Canada are not always living to their fullest potential.”

The first Call for Proposals for the Enabling Accessibility Fund opened on April 1, 2008, and will close on April 30, 2008. Approved projects will have strong ties to, and support from, the communities they serve and must demonstrate improvements in accessibility for people with disabilities.

“By addressing the accessibility issues that people with disabilities often cite, we are helping them to participate socially and economically in their communities,” said Lauzon.

“Whether it’s through funding a world-class abilities centre, building a ramp on a church, modifying vehicles or making information and communication technology more accessibly by removing barriers, we can improve accessibility in our neighborhoods and all across the country.”

Eligible organizations include the following: non-governmental organizations such as community-based groups and non-profit organizations; public sector organizations such as small municipalities with a population under 250,000; small private-sector organizations; provincial, territorial and Aboriginal governments.

For more information about the fund, please visit hrsdc-rhdsc.gc.ca or call 1 800 O-Canada. For TTY service, call 1-800-926-9105