Funding for Church Building Accessibility

Most people in churches want to include people with disabilities in the life and ministry of the congregation. Most people understand that the Bible gives clear reasons for full inclusion of all people in the life of a congregation.

But making changes of buildings, programs, and attitudes requires a cost.

If your church is part of a denomination, have you considered your regional body - classis, presbytery, judicatory, regional synod? Many such regional bodies have grant funds to assist churches in various ways. Find out whether accessibility improvements might be eligible for funding. 

The following organizations may also provide financial assistance: 

Ontario: The Ontario Trillium Foundation, an agency of the government of Ontario, distributes its funding to charities and not-for-profits in four sectors: Arts and Culture, Environment, Sports and Recreation, and Human and Social Services. A number of churches have received funding for accessibility improvements. Be advised that the Foundation receives its funding through the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation. Your church will want to consider carefully the wisdom of accepting money that is gained this way. If your church chose to accept or not accept money from the Trillium Foundation, we'd love to hear about it.

Canada: The Enabling Accessibility Fund is a federal Grants and Contributions program that supports capital costs of construction and renovations related to improving physical accessibility and safety for people with disabilities in Canadian communities and workplaces. From installing automated door openers, constructing a universally designed office or retrofitting a washroom with an accessible toilet, grab bars and taps, the Enabling Accessibility Fund works to enable Canadians with disabilities to participate in their community and the economy.

United States: Christian Fund for the Disabled is a grant program administered by Joni and Friends. CFD provides one-time matching grants up to $2,500 to qualifying individuals and to churches or Christian organizations. Requests must reflect a disability-related need. Grants are also available to evangelical churches and organizations for educational grants up to a maximum of $1,500. If you know of other organizations that provide grant money to make churches accessible, please let us know.