Ontario Building More Inclusive Communities

The Ontario government is investing up to $740,000 to improve accessibility and support people of all ages and abilities throughout the province. Through the Inclusive Community Grants Program, 20 projects will receive funding to improve community life for older Ontarians and people with disabilities.

“Inclusive communities are important because they help people with disabilities and seniors participate in community life by removing barriers,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “Through the Inclusive Community Grants Program, we are fighting social isolation and creating new opportunities for all Ontarians to stay active, healthy and independent.”

The Inclusive Community Grants Program provides funding of up to $60,000 for projects to help ensure local government and community organizations consider Ontarians of all ages and abilities at every stage of community planning and development.

Since the Inclusive Community Grants Program was created in 2020, it has provided over $5 million to support 107 projects promoting inclusivity and accessibility across the province. The 2024-25 funding cycle is supporting important projects, such as:

• Creating an accessible outdoor library space at the Newcastle Library of the Clarington Library, Museums & Archives with a sensory garden and programming space for people of all ages and abilities in Bowmanville.
• Making accessibility upgrades to the Ed Newland Pool facility in Cambridge, including new parking spaces, paths and ramps around and into the building.
• Installing accessible outdoor seating and sun coverings and developing activities at Algoma Park in Espanola.
• Creating an accessible outdoor space with shade, seating, gardens and mobility aid charging stations in Port Hope.

Find a full list of projects that received a 2024-25 Inclusive Community Grant.