Better accessibility remains an ongoing task for institutions

Oct 15, 2021 | News

Anthony Frisina, media director for the Ontario Disability Coalition, is quick to acknowledge improving attitudes toward people with physical disabilities, better access in public spaces, and supports provided by governments and service agencies.

But, Frisina told Humber Et Cetera there’s still a lot of work to do.

“I’ve been working to help pave the way so that acceptance is more prevalent for the disability community,” said Frisina, who also founded the organization Above and Beyond.

“It comes in the way of providing more accessible streets, providing more accessible areas whether it be in a commercial building, public building,” he said. “Just utilizing the lived experience of people with disabilities when it comes to decisions that are made.”

PeopleAccess reports that in Ontario, more than 15 per cent of the population, or about 1.9 million people, have either a long-term or permanent disability. Most of those are over age 65.

Statistics Canada stated in a report on accessibility in federal sectors for 2021, about 73 per cent of Canadians with a disability reported encountering an access barrier.

Accessibility often determines whether people with disabilities can find work and build financial stability. Mobility devices and other supports often cost considerable amounts of money.

“You’ve got to look at personal care, other medical medicines or devices that aren’t covered, but come out of pocket as well,” Frisina said.

Statistics Canada says students with a disability in Canada receive up to $4,000 annually.

The Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services provides basic needs such as food, clothes, water and shelter. The amount is based on the number of people in a family, if a spouse has a disability and the age of family members.

Anthony Frisina, media director for the Ontario Disability Coalition, is quick to acknowledge improving attitudes toward people with physical disabilities. PHOTO CREDIT/MARK NEWMAN

For children, cerebral palsy is the most common disability, affecting both communication and movement control. According to the Ontario Brain Institute, it affects more than 34,000 people in the province.

Vanessa Giancaterini, an eight-year para-athlete with cerebral palsy, said basketball was great in helping her cope.

“I think it’s the community,” she said. “They’re so welcoming and it’s a judgment-free zone, which I love. I needed that as a teenager.”

Josee Matte, high-performance manager for the Ontario Para Network, says the social aspect of para-athletics is hugely important and everyone felt the effects when facilities were closed and events were canceled during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We had one of the longest lockdowns in Canada, in the world, and I think that really took a mental toll,” Matte said. “Especially on some of the younger people who are in high school or just starting post-secondary.”