Breaking Down Barriers Funding Announcement

Breaking Down Barriers, ILRC has been awarded a provincial grant aimed at developing tools and educational resources to raise awareness about the value and benefits of accessibility and help make Ontario open to people of all abilities.

The provincial grant, EnAbling Change Program, supports Breaking Down Barriers’ project “Start the Conversation AODA 2025” recognizing the importance of inclusive and accessible businesses and customer service for all people of all abilities. Breaking Down Barriers has played a vital role promoting and supporting accessibility for individuals with diverse disabilities for 38 years. Under this grant, the business community will have access to resources and guidance regarding their own accessibility concerns and solutions.

“This EnAbling Change Program grant of up to $119,125 is recognition by this Government of the important work Breaking Down Barriers does in our region,” said Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe-Grey. “Congratulations to Teresa Gal and her Team at Breaking Down Barriers, on the Start the Conversation program and working with local business in the retail and hospitality sectors to raise awareness about serving clients with diverse disabilities.”

“Start The Conversation AODA 2025” launches this month and will incorporate educational components for the private sector and community, workshops, onsite accessibility reviews and recommendations”, says Teresa Gal, Executive Director for Breaking Down Barriers. “We are grateful for this provincial grant as it will allow us to dedicate staff, resources and educational material necessary to not only support local businesses on their accessibility matters but also raise awareness across communities to “start the conversation” about the importance of accessibility for all people of all abilities”, adds Gal.

Founding Board Member Kathryn Bloomfield (above left) continues to provide invaluable experience accumulated from her long-time affiliation with Breaking Down Barriers to Executive Director Teresa Gal (above right) on a daily basis.

For 38 years, Breaking Down Barriers has been providing programs, supports, services, resources and referrals to enhance opportunities for people with diverse disabilities to live independently in communities they call home. Serving Simcoe, Grey and Bruce Counties, Breaking Down Barriers provides advocacy, peer support programs, Direct Funding opportunities and independent living skills training.

Learn more – visit Breaking Down Barriers website