People with disabilities will be supported in living with independence and as full participants in their communities, through $500,000 for community projects that improve accessibility.

“Every day, people with disabilities overcome barriers that could otherwise impact their lives,” said Shane Simpson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “Organizations across B.C. are working to embrace diversity, create equal opportunities and improve social inclusion. This funding will support them in that important work and contribute to the Province’s commitment to building a better B.C. for people with disabilities.”

The funding announcement launches B.C.’s second annual AccessAbility Week, May 26 to June 1, 2019.  AccessAbility Week promotes and celebrates diversity and inclusion, and recognizes the importance of accessibility.

The funds will be distributed through grants administered by Disability Alliance BC (DABC). A call for proposals will be posted on the DABC website in summer 2019, and grants will be awarded by the end of the year.

“Disability Alliance BC is honoured to have the opportunity to once again support projects that promote greater accessibility and inclusivity for people with disabilities in B.C. communities,” said Justina Loh, executive director, Disability Alliance BC. “With funding from the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, we will help enrich and improve the lives of all people with disabilities. We are grateful to government for providing the funds and the opportunity to see more amazing projects come to life.”

During AccessAbility Week, communities throughout the province will host events and supporting activities that promote inclusion and accessibility. The celebrations are supported by $10,000 in provincial funding to the Social Planning and Research Council of BC (SPARC BC). AccessAbility Week 2019 will wrap up on June 1, Access Awareness Day.

Quick Facts:

• This is the second year that these grants are being made available. Last year, 16 community projects received funding for projects that will be completed by the end of this year.
• In B.C., more than 900,000 people aged 15 years and older, or 24.7% of the population, self-identify as having a disability.
• One in five Canadian adults has a disability.
• The provincial government provides up to $5 billion annually to fund services and supports for people with disabilities in B.C.

Learn More:

B.C. government accessibility initiatives: www.gov.bc.ca/accessibility

View the 2018 AccessAbility Projects: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2018SDPR0056-002319

Disability Alliance BC: www.disabilityalliancebc.org

SPARC Access Awareness Day: www.sparc.bc.ca/accessibility/

View the AccessAbility Week Proclamation: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/AccessAbility_Week_2019.pdf