Ontario Building More Inclusive Communities

Beamsville – The Ontario government is investing $750,000 this year to help communities across the province become more age-friendly and accessible for people of all ages and abilities.

Applications for the 2024-25 cycle of Inclusive Community Grants opened today. These grants provide municipalities, non-profit organizations, and Indigenous communities with up to $60,000 for local projects that will help older adults and people with disabilities participate in community life.

“Previous local projects that have qualified for the Inclusive Community Grants Program have helped make a big difference in the lives of older Ontarians here in Niagara,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West.

“They offer meaningful opportunities for older adults to safely take part in local life and keep connected to friends, family and the community.”

Previous projects in West Niagara have included a series of older adult workshops, hosted by the Township of West Lincoln at the West Lincoln Community Centre in Smithville; a seniors recreational and well-being program, facilitated by the Town of Grimsby and the Museum Memories project, facilitated by the Town of Lincoln.

“We know that everyone benefits from inclusive communities that support independent, active living and help reduce social isolation by removing barriers,” said Hon. Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility.

“That is why I am proud to announce the launch of the latest round of funding for Inclusive Community Grants Program, which will help enable older adults and people with disabilities to contribute to all aspects of community life.”

Since the Inclusive Community Grants Program was created in 2020, the Ontario government has provided up to $4.5 million to support eighty-seven projects in communities across Ontario.

This year, Ontario is prioritizing projects focused on increasing access to outdoor spaces and promoting and increasing accessible housing and transportation.

Applications for Inclusive Community Grants are available at Ontario.ca/GetFunding. Eligible organizations have until Wednesday, May 22, 2024, to submit their applications.