Ontario Building More Accessible Communities

TORONTO — The Ontario government is investing $2.2 million to help protect and strengthen access to inclusive spaces for all Ontarians. The Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone (EASE) Grant awards up to $60,000 for projects that improve accessibility and support active lifestyles for people with disabilities and older adults.

"With the launch of the EASE Grant, we are taking action to ensure more seniors and people with disabilities can participate fully in their communities,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government will continue to protect Ontario by investing in infrastructure projects that create jobs and allow people to live healthy and active lifestyles.”

EASE Grants will provide municipalities, non-profit organizations and Indigenous governing bodies funding for capital projects and retrofits that help older adults and people with disabilities participate in community life. Examples of potential projects include installing charging stations for mobility devices, installing mobility mats at beaches and building accessible washrooms at parks.

To protect seniors, the Ontario government is investing in a historic number of community programs and active living centres that support healthy and socially connected living. This includes an additional $1 million designated for programs dedicated to improving the quality of life for senior veterans and expanding Seniors Active Living Centres (SALCs) to over 400 sites to increase access to services that connect seniors to activities and programs close to home.

Applications for EASE Grants are now open at Ontario.ca/GetFunding. Eligible organizations have until August 14, 2025, to submit their applications.

Quick Facts

• To support interested applicants for the EASE Grant, the ministry will be hosting four webinars during the application window to provide program information and guidance on completing and submitting the application form. To register for a webinar, please click one of the links below:

  • July 17, 2025 English webinar

  • July 17, 2025 French webinar

  • August 6, 2025 English webinar

  • August 6, 2025 French webinar

•  Eligible organizations must apply for an Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone Grant through Transfer Payment Ontario.

• The new program replaces the EnAbling Change Program and the Inclusive Community Grants Program to maximize impact for older adults and people living with a disability.

  
  

Additional Resources

• Creating a more inclusive Ontario: age-friendly community planning guide for municipalities and community organizations

• Accessibility in Ontario

• Programs and services to support Ontario’s seniors