MPP Daisy Wai and MPP Michael Parsa announce $45,000 for Richmond Hill
MPP Daisy Wai and MPP Michael Parsa today announced that on behalf of Premier Ford and the entire government, Ontario is investing in An Inclusive Nature Retreat: The Lake Wilcox Fish and Wildlife Sanctuary Accessibility Enhancements Project making Richmond Hill more inclusive for people of all ages and abilities.
“I am thrilled to welcome Ontario’s investment in enhancing accessibility at Lake Wilcox through the Inclusive Community Grants Program,” said Daisy Wai, MPP for Richmond Hill. “Our government recognizes the importance of ensuring shared spaces are accessible to all, and this funding will make a meaningful difference in promoting healthy living and inclusion across Richmond Hill.”
“Our government is improving accessibility through the Inclusive Community Grants Program so that people of all ages and diverse abilities can safely and comfortably enjoy the natural beauties at the Lake Wilcox Fish and Wildlife Sanctuary,” said Michael Parsa, MPP for Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill. “This investment ensures that everyone can enjoy the outdoors, promoting inclusion through meaningful access to nature.”
Through the Inclusive Community Grants Program, the City of Richmond Hill will receive up to $45,000 in funding to create an inclusive greenspace by installing a ramp to the boardwalk at the Lake Wilcox Fish and Wildlife Sanctuary. Additional improvements include installing two benches and wayfinding signage on the existing trail.
“Inclusive communities create more accessible environments for older adults and people with disabilities to participate in all aspects of community life,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “Through the Inclusive Community Grants Program, we are fostering community involvement and fighting social isolation by removing barriers to help Ontarians stay active, healthy and independent.”
The investment in the Inclusive Community Grants Program has increased to up to $1.55 million for this years 18 projects. Since this initiative was created in 2020, it has provided over $5 million to support 125 projects promoting inclusivity and accessibility in Ontario.
“Thanks to this investment by the Provincial Government, people of all ages and abilities will be able to access our beautiful greenspace here in Richmond Hill,” said David West, Mayor of Richmond Hill. “This improvement will help our city continue to grow as an inclusive community, by making our public spaces accessible to all residents and visitors. And I am proud to say, this investment was a result of collaboration with the City and its Accessibility Advisory Committee. With these accessibility enhancements, I look forward to having more people experience and connect with the nature of the Oak Ridges Moraine’s largest lake.”
QUICK FACTS
§Ontario is investing in a total of 38 community-based projects as part this years Inclusive Community Grants Program.
§The first 20 Inclusive Community Grants for this year were announced in September.
§Inclusive and Age-Friendly Communities work to promote accessibility and active living for people of all ages and abilities.
§Inclusive Community Grant recipients can receive up to $60,000 for projects that foster inclusive community involvement for older adults and people of all abilities.