2011-07-20

NEWS RELEASE
For immediate release
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
9:00 a.m. EDT

Western Fair District introduces new accessibility program

London, Ontario ... The Western Fair District today announced its Community Access Program (C.A.P.) for persons with disabilities who wish to enjoy the facilities of London and region’s entertainment district including the annual Western Fair.

Following extensive consultation with leaders in the field of accessibility including members of London’s Accessibility Advisory Committee (ACCAC), the new program demonstrates the commitment of the Western Fair District as a community-based organization and reflects the spirit and the letter of the newly enacted provincial legislation, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

"We have listened to special needs groups and persons with disabilities living in our community and have created an access program that is respectful, efficient and cost-free," said Hugh Mitchell, CEO of Western Fair District. “As a community-based organization, it is our privilege to make our facilities accessible. If persons with disabilities see the cost of admission as a barrier to their full participation, we are prepared to eliminate that barrier. "

The new program is designed to provide free entrance to the annual Western Fair for persons with disabilities and discounted access to other shows and events operated by Western Fair District such as the London Wine and Food Show, the Sports & Recreation Show and the Western Fair Farm Show. The CAP card that includes a photo-ID can be applied for, at no cost, on-line at: http://www.westernfairdistrict.com/the_fair/visitor_info/CAP_program Should the cardholder require the assistance of a support person in attendance, that person too will be given free entrance to the annual Western Fair and other shows and events.

"The CAP card program is respectful of the dignity of persons with disabilities,” said Kimber Bogema, Vice-Chair of the London Accessibility Advisory Committee. “It was evident throughout our many discussions that the folks at the Western Fair District were absolutely committed to doing the right thing; to making every person welcome. We were happy to help them create the program and now we are pleased to support it."

Application for a CAP card can be submitted by anyone with a permanent or temporary disability or a legal guardian or support worker on the applicant’s behalf. The application form requires the signature of an authorized health care service provider familiar with the applicant such as an attending physician, registered nurse, physiotherapist (full list is available with the application on the website). For those persons without online access applications can be made by calling: 519-438-7203 ext 381.

In addition to its new Community Access Program the Western Fair District administers a corporate donations program. Since 2001 through the Community Enhancement Program the Western Fair District has donated over $600,000 to local non-profit organizations that contribute to the overall well being of London and region such as: Family Services Thames Valley, Easter Seals Camp, St. Joseph's Health Care - Parkwood Hospital, Hutton House, Participation House and Merry Mount.

Western Fair District is the east-end entertainment anchor to London`s core and will prove to be a viable partner in the economic, social and cultural future of London and the region of Southwestern Ontario.

To request an interview with Hugh Mitchell, CEO of Western Fair District, or to arrange for a photo, please contact

Anna Marie McCallum
Western Fair District
519-438-7203 ext. 224
mccallum@westernfairdistrict.com

To learn more about the role of London Accessibility Advisory Committee, please contact

Kimber Bogema, Vice Chair
London Accessibility Advisory Committee
519-204-9381
kimberb@rogers.com

For more information on the C.A.P. application process please go to:http://www.westernfairdistrict.com/the_fair/visitor_info/CAP_program

For more information on the Western Fair District please go to www.westernfairdistrict.com