The Town of Saugeen Shores' Accessibility Committee has teamed up with the Saugeen District Secondary School Construction Class once again on an accessibility project called StopGap. The program is a national initiative aimed at removing barriers by providing temporary ramps to local businesses, allowing persons with mobility devices to enter the buildings.
SDSS Students with StopGap ramps
"This is a great program that the Town is excited to be a part of," says Mayor Luke Charbonneau, member of the Accessibility Committee. "Working with the construction class means these teens are able to practice their skills while also learning about accessibility and the barriers people in our community face every day."
The StopGap ramps are built by the students under the supervision of teacher Bud Halpin. The entrance to each participating business is measured and the ramp is designed to fit the space. In the last three years, 20 businesses have stepped up to take part in the program and improve accessibility in Saugeen Shores. In 2019, new ramps were provided to Cathy's Flowers n Treasurers, Saugeen Curry House, King's Law Firm, and Ideal Custom Orthotics.
The students and the Accessibility Advisory Committee have distributed the ramps to this year's participating businesses just in time for Accessibility Awareness Day, taking place this Thursday, May 16.
"The purpose of Accessibility Awareness Day is to get people talking, thinking and learning about accessibility and inclusion for people with different disabilities," says Committee Chair, Maureen Crawford. "We hope that in addition to doing their intended job, these ramps help remind everyone that accessibility is essential throughout our community."
For more information
600 Tomlinson Drive, Box 820
Port Elgin, Ontario
Canada N0H 2C0
www.saugeenshores.ca
