NICKEL BELT-GREATER SUDBURY – Recently, the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion of Canada launched the call for proposals period for the new Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) Small Projects Component on Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC).

This stream will provide up to $25 million, over two years, to improve the accessibility and safety of approximately 350 regulated and/or licensed early learning and child centres across the country. The goal of this funding is to support persons with disabilities, including children, parents or guardians, and early childhood educators with disabilities and to ensure that all families across Canada have access to high-quality, affordable, and inclusive early learning and child care, no matter where they live.

Eligible organizations can apply for up to $70,000 for:

• new construction, renovation, or retrofit activities that will increase accessibility and expand access to early learning and child care centres; and/or
• accessible information and communication technologies.

The deadline for organizations to submit applications is January 28, 2022.

Quote

“This funding directly addresses current barriers to accessibility and safety for persons with disabilities including children, parents/guardians with disabilities, and employees with disabilities. Nickle Belt – Greater Sudbury’s social and economic strength develops when we prioritize the inclusivity of all. Other streams of the Enabling Accessibility Fund have positively benefitted projects such as the Azilda Therapeutic Pool ($1 million,) the Gogama Heritage Museum ($53,537), the Valley Community Theatre and Millennium Resource Centre ($33,000) and many more. Hoping all eligible organizations take advantage of this new funding program.” – Marc G. Serré, MP Nickel Belt

Links

• Details on how to apply can be found at: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/enabling-accessibility-fund-early-learning-child-care.html
• Minister Qualtrough Press Release: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2021/12/government-of-canada-funds-improved-access-for-inclusive-early-learning-and-child-care-centres-across-the-country.htm

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Media Contact:
Kaylie Dudgeon, Special Assistant
Marc G. Serré, MP Nickel Belt
705-507-2416, [email protected]