Delta – Accessible infrastructure and meaningful improvements to facilities ensures more Canadians with disabilities can fully participate in their communities and readily access the services and programs they need. The Minister of Sport and Physical Activity, Carla Qualtrough, on behalf of the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, Kamal Khera, visited the BC & Alberta Guide Dogs organization in Delta, British Columbia. There, she announced up to $2.7 million in funding to support the development of a state-of-the-art breeding and training centre that will produce more purpose-bred dogs.
This funding is part of the Government of Canada’s investment under the Enabling Accessibility Fund mid-sized projects component that aims to eliminate or reduce existing waitlists and increase access to programs and services for persons with disabilities.
The project, entitled BC & Alberta Guide Dogs Breeding & Training Centre, will also improve the organization’s training departments, easing the experience of current and future purpose-bred dog owners with disabilities through the implementation of an on-site veterinary examination clinic, and an appropriate, equipped, and controlled training environment for Canadians and their dogs. This initiative seeks enhance access to – and the quality of – guided support for Canadians with disabilities across the country.
The funding announced today aligns with the Disability Inclusion Action Plan and the goal of building a truly inclusive Canada, free of physical, societal, and attitudinal barriers.
“With over 70 communities served, the BC & Alberta Guide Dogs bring essential services to Canadians of all ages who can benefit from the support that guide and service dogs can offer. Through the Enabling Accessibility Fund, we are proud to be partnering with organizations like this one who, project by project, are creating a Canada for everyone, where barrier-free access and disability inclusion are the norm.” – Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities
“Delta is proud to be home to. Delta families are proud to help raise puppies, board dogs, and help with breeding. BC & Alberta Guide Dogs empowers Canadians to live with greater independence and confidence. With our government’s $2.7 million investment, this organization can expand its work –training more dogs to help more Canadians navigate their communities safely and freely.” – Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Physical Activity