MISSION
To build a community in which persons with disabilities have equitable access to the same opportunities as every other citizen of the City of Ottawa.
OBJECTIVES
To provide a forum to explore shared systemic and issues of concern for persons with disabilities and to prepare and deliver a response to relevant stakeholders.
To engage with decision makers (government, funders and other relevant individuals/groups) on issues of shared concern.
To promote & improve person-centered services and supports for people with disabilities.
To facilitate partnerships that will leverage and maximize human and financial resources.
To engender increased awareness and support of disability matters in the community that are reflective of relevant legislative frameworks.
PRIORITIES
Community Support Services
That the range and supply of affordable and appropriate services are available to match the diverse needs of persons with disabilities. this may include grooming, dressing, bathing, transferring, bed care, medication compliance, simple wound dressings, blood sugar and blood pressure monitoring and respite care, home management, meal preparation, companionship (live-in, overnight or visiting), light housekeeping, accompaniment to appointments, shopping and errands.
Housing Choice
That the range and supply of affordable and appropriate housing are available to match the diverse needs of persons with disabilities. They must provide a safe, clean and healthy environment. This will include independent living in existing owned or rental homes and apartments; supportive housing; housing with support; retirement homes; long term care facilities, age appropriate housing.
Financial Support/Employment/Education
That barriers faced by persons with disabilities that prevent them from acquiring an education, learning skills, being employed to their capacity, earning a fair wage or having sufficient income to maintain an independent, healthy, safe and decent lifestyle are removed. This also includes adequate financial supports where independent living cannot be achieved by the individual themselves.
Disability Friendly Barrier Free/Universal Design
That physical barriers are removed and all places where the public normally accesses are “accessible” to all. This may include replacing steps and curbs with ramps; adding tactile surfaces; adding curb cuts and ramps; clearing debris; clearing snow; extending crossing times at controlled intersections; more audible crossing signals; adding power door operators; ensuring pathways are appropriate; making accessible public washrooms available..
Public Transit
That there is an adequate supply of convenient, safe and affordable accessible public transit. This includes all aspects of booking, staff training, fees, frequency, time availability, pick-up/drop off location; intermodal transfers; transit station design and maintenance. It includes Para-Transpo, OC Transpo, LRT, Taxi, UBER, and Via Rail.