Earlier this fall, it was my pleasure to participate in the official opening of the newly renovated community room at Ten Ten Sinclair Housing.
This renovation is part of our efforts to make Old Kildonan more accessible for people of all abilities. I am familiar with the challenges of people living with physical disabilities and I believe these renovations are very important.
Facilities like Ten Ten Sinclair are valuable as they provide affordable housing and supportive resources for those living with disabilities who desire to live independently. As Debbie Van Ettinger, Ten Ten Sinclair’s executive director, said at the opening, “Tenants will enjoy the community room for years to come. It will enhance the opportunity for peer learning and sharing of ideas.”
The community room is a place of gathering for families and friends. Many enjoy leisure activities in this multi-purpose room. Additionally, Ten Ten Sinclair makes this room available to community groups. Thus, it’s very important to ensure these spaces are physically accessible for all members of our community.
I was happy to work through the City of Winnipeg community incentive grant program to support this project financially, and it is a joy to see the accessible features of this facility. The community room now has new flooring that is durable for mobility devices and footwear, a wedge ramp for sliding door access, new furniture that improves accessibility and comfort, as well as lower placement of light switches and electrical outlets to increase accessibility.