The project aims to increase accessibility to vital services for Canadians with disabilities in Mississauga
The federal government recently announced a $2.7m investment through the Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) to support an infrastructure project at the Luso Canadian Charitable Society in Mississauga, Ontario.
The project will enhance accessibility to the organization’s day programs and services for persons with disabilities.
This investment aligns with the government's ongoing efforts to improve access to community services and programs for Canadians with disabilities, reinforcing their commitment to building more inclusive and accessible spaces across the country.
Minister Kamal Khera, who serves as Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, emphasized that investing in accessible infrastructure and enhancing facilities is crucial to enabling Canadians with disabilities to fully participate in society.
Through the EAF, the government is committed to fostering inclusive environments by reducing barriers to services and programs.
The Luso Canadian Charitable Society project will result in new and upgraded infrastructure, including accessible washrooms, ramps, an elevator, and a drop-off area.
These improvements will not only increase accessibility for participants but also create job opportunities for persons with disabilities, further contributing to their social and economic inclusion.
Minister Khera was joined by Rechie Valdez, Member of Parliament for Mississauga—Streetsville and Minister of Small Business, Charles Sousa, MP for Mississauga—Lakeshore, and Peter Fonseca, MP for Mississauga—Cooksville, to highlight this initiative.
Minister Khera emphasized the broader vision of these efforts, she said “Organizations like Luso Canadian Charitable Society here in Peel region provide a safe and supportive space for persons with disabilities to reach their potential.”
“By investing in projects like the one led by Luso Canadian Charitable Society, we are working with grass-roots organizations to become more accessible and improve disability inclusion.”
Through this project, the Luso Canadian Charitable Society will develop new infrastructure, including multisensory rooms, accessible washrooms, ramps, an elevator, and an accessible drop-off area.
The project not only increases accessibility but also creates employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
“We are addressing a gap in supportive housing for aging persons with disabilities while investing in increasing intake capacity for Day Programs,” said Jack Prazeres, president of Luso Canadian Charitable Society.
The Luso Canadian Charitable Society has long served as a vital resource for persons with complex disabilities. Its infrastructure improvements, supported by the EAF, are part of a wider effort to remove existing barriers and foster inclusivity.
Charles Sousa highlighted the impact of these developments, noting, “Luso’s tremendous work over many years has reduced barriers and promoted a more inclusive and accessible society.”
Families benefiting from Luso’s services have also shared how the organization has positively impacted their lives.
Rick Dorian, the father of a participant, expressed his gratitude, “Luso transformed our lives by providing us with 8 hours of program access daily, giving us time to live our lives and restore our energies.”
Rechie Valdez praised the community-driven approach of the project, saying, “The Luso Canadian Charitable Society project is an example of the many reasons I am proud to represent our community in Parliament. Together, we get things done, including making programs and services in the region more inclusive and accessible for everyone.”
Since its launch in 2007, the EAF has supported over 7,700 projects, improving access to programs, services, and employment opportunities for Canadians with disabilities.
The 2022 Canada Survey on Disability reports that 27 percent of Canadians aged 15 and over, or roughly eight million people, live with at least one disability. In 2023, the federal government committed $10 million over two years to support mid-sized EAF projects, furthering efforts to address ongoing barriers faced by persons with disabilities.
As a result, projects like the Luso Canadian Charitable Society’s will continue to play a pivotal role in creating a more inclusive and accessible Canada for all.
