SDSS construction students and teacher Bud Halpin (back, centre) with their StopGap ramps for businesses in Saugeen Shores.

The Town of Saugeen Shores’ Accessibility Committee has once again teamed up with the Saugeen District Secondary School (SDSS) construction class on the StopGap accessibility project. In a Town media release, StopGap is a national initiative aimed at removing barriers by providing temporary ramps to local businesses, allowing persons with mobility devices to enter the buildings.

Saugeen Shores first partnered with the construction class to bring StopGap to Saugeen Shores in 2016.

See: Eight businesses soon to be accessible through StopGap[https://saugeenshoreshub.ca/news/2006-eight-businesses-soon-to-be-accessible-through-stopgap.html]

“This is a great program that the Town is excited to be a part of,” said Saugeen Shores Mayor and Accessibility Committee member Luke Charbonneau. “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," he said.

Under the supervision of teacher Bud Halpin, construction students measure the entrance to participating businesses and build the ramps to fit the space.

Since 2016 a total of 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 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,” said Accessibility 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.”

The Town of Saugeen Shores’ Accessibility Advisory Committee provides guidance to Town facilities and parks, as well as businesses and special events, to identify and remove barriers in Saugeen Shores. For those looking to learn more, the committee will have a booth at the Health and Wellness Fair taking place at the Southampton Curling Club on Saturday, June 1 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

From left, Cathy Fenton from Cathy's Flowers 'N Treasures, Accessibility Committee member Bill McKee and Saugeen Shores Mayor Luke Charbonneau.