The Federal Government announced that two programs are now taking call for proposals on Thursday, July 3 — one is for the $10 million national recreational trails program, while the other is for $8 million in funding to enable accessibility.
On the National Recreational Trails Program, David Wilks, Member of Parliament for Kootenay Columbia said local trail organizations in Canada are invited to submit project proposals directly to the National Trails Coalition. The coalition is responsible for selecting and approving projects.
"Canada has a vast network of recreational trails which allow Canadians to experience the outdoors and appreciate this country's natural beauty," said Wilks. "Thanks to a partnership between the Government of Canada and the National Trails Coalition, $10 million will be available between 2014 and 2016 to help expand and rehabilitate Canada's snowmobile, all-terrain vehicle and non-motorized trail system."
This funding is meant to help build and renew multi-purpose trails for walking, running, cross-country skiing, biking, all-terrain vehicle use and snowmobiling.
Between 150 and 200 projects are expected to be supported across Canada.
The coalition is made up of the following non-profit organizations and their provincial/territorial affiliates: Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations, the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council and the Canadian Trails Federation. Organizations can access information, applications and guidelines for project proposal submissions at: www.ntc-canada.ca
The second program is the Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAP) Call for Proposals for projects that increase accessibility in Canadian communities.
"Organizations are encouraged to apply for funding through the 2014 call for proposals for projects that will help improve accessibility in community facilities for Canadians with disabilities," Wilks said.
The deadline for submitting proposals to the fund is for the Friday, August 1, 2014.
Wilks said over $8 million in funding is available through this year's call for proposals. Applications are reviewed against eligibility criteria, call for proposal requirements and program objectives.
Examples of projects include renovations to widen hallways and doorways, installing elevator, installing automated power doors, replacing difficult to grasp doorknobs and installing accessible washrooms and showers, and upgrading facilities that offer programs for children and/or adults with autism and other cognitive/intellectual impairments.
Application information is available on Employment and Social Development Canada's website at http://www.esdc.gc.ca/eng/disability/eaf