Sunshine Coast Community Services Society (SCCSS) has received almost $30,000 from Disability Alliance BC (DABC), for an initiative that empowers people with mental health disabilities to have equitable access to emergency response planning.
SCCSS applied for the funds for its Accessible Emergency Response for All Project, through the alliance’s Accessibility Projects Grants and will receive $29,311.96. This past summer, organizations from across the province were invited to apply for up to $40,000 for year-long projects that promote better access to cultural, recreational, emergency planning, educational and community participation opportunities for people with disabilities across the province.
After an extensive review process by representatives from the disability and community sectors, 14 projects were funded in total this year, including Accessible Emergency Response for All.
"This funding is so important for so many people. The heart, work and passion within every application is evident,” said Accessibility Projects Grants Review Committee member Lise Gillies, who identifies as a Cree/Métis neurodivergent mom to a neurodivergent daughter with complex support needs in a news release. “There is incredible thoughtfulness in these submissions by organizations who have identified huge needs and design projects that are aligned to meet those needs through true inclusion, creativity, and innovation."
The recipients were announced on Dec. 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This year, the provincial government provided $450,000 to be distributed by DABC to non-profits throughout British Columbia. Since 2018, DABC has distributed more than $3 million to more than 90 non-profit organizations across the province.
Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, said the accessibility projects are meant to help people “live good lives and fully participate in their communities.”
“Through our partnership with DABC, accessibility projects are clearing the path, removing barriers and creating opportunities for people with disabilities. A more inclusive and accessible B.C. is possible when we work together,” Malcolmson said in the news release.
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