Grant Process for Barriers at Child Care Centres & Early Learning Facilities in Ontario
Ontario launched the Liam Riazati Memorial Fund to Protect Children in December 2025, a $20 million provincial initiative designed to help licensed child care centres install concrete safety barriers at no cost. This fund was created in response to a tragic incident in Richmond Hill in September 2025 and is now accepting applications.
Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply:
Licensed community-based child care operators in Ontario
Centres that have not yet installed safety barriers (the fund does not reimburse centres that have already independently invested in barriers)
Who Is Not Eligible (per current guidelines):
Child care centres that have already installed barriers at their own expense will not receive reimbursement or financial assistance at this time
Further details on eligibility for school-based or other program types will be clarified as the application process is finalized
Application Process and Timeline
When to Apply:
Applications will open in early 2026 (specific dates to be announced by Ontario Ministry of Education)
How to Apply:
Ontario is designing a streamlined application process to make it straightforward for operators
Detailed application instructions, forms, and deadlines will be provided to child care operators in early 2026 by the Ministry of Education
Operators should monitor the Ontario Ministry of Education website and expect communication directly from their regional licensing bodies
What You'll Need:
While specific documentation requirements are not yet finalized, typical applications for this type of program usually require:
Proof of child care licence
Site plans or photos showing areas where barriers are needed
Confirmation that the facility is community-based and enrolled in the CWELCC system (if applicable)
Details on the specific locations requiring barriers (parking lot perimeter, windows, playground areas, etc.)
What the Fund Covers
Free Barrier Supply and Installation:
Concrete barriers will be supplied and installed at no cost to participating child care centres
Pre-approved vendors will be used to ensure consistent quality and compliance
Barriers will cover temporary solutions while Ontario designs longer-term permanent safety requirements
Scope:
The fund focuses on protecting vulnerable entry and play areas, including:
Parking lot perimeters adjacent to playgrounds
Front windows and doors
Areas where vehicles could potentially enter play zones
Key Considerations
Timing and Budget:
$20 million is the initial provincial investment; Education Minister Paul Calandra has stated the government remains open to increasing funding if needed
This is a temporary solution while Ontario examines longer-term permanent safety requirements, such as bollards and legislative changes
Future Legislation:
Ontario plans to introduce formal legislative requirements for child care safety barriers over time
The province will consult with the sector and safety experts to establish technical standards and permanent solutions
For Centres That Already Installed Barriers:
Currently, there is no reimbursement program for centres that proactively installed barriers before this fund was launched
Ontario has acknowledged this concern but stated that initial funding is prioritized for centres with unmet safety needs
The government may explore additional support programs in future announcements
Steps to Take Now (Before Early 2026 Applications Open)
Document your facility's safety needs: Identify all high-risk areas where barriers would be beneficial (parking lot access, playground perimeter, building entrances).
Ensure your child care licence is current: Verify that your centre's licence is active and in good standing with the Ministry of Education.
Confirm CWELCC enrollment status (if applicable): If you operate under the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care system, ensure your enrollment is active.
Monitor official channels: Watch the Ontario Ministry of Education website and expect direct communication from your regional licensing authority with detailed application information.
Consult with your licensing officer: Reach out to your assigned licensing officer at your local CMSM (Consolidated Municipal Service Manager) or DSSAB (District Social Services Administration Board) to stay informed about rollout timelines specific to your region.
Additional Early Learning and Child Care Funding Opportunities
Beyond barrier installation, Ontario and Canada offer other grants for child care infrastructure:
Start-Up Grants (for new spaces):
Up to $350,000 per 20 centre-based child care spaces created
Up to $1,200 per home child care space created (maximum $7,200 per provider)
Requires participation in CWELCC for at least 7 years after opening
Early Learning and Child Care Infrastructure Fund:
For not-for-profit licensed child care centres aligned with Ontario's Access and Inclusion Framework
Supports creation of new spaces for children aged 0–4 in underserved communities
Contact and Information Sources
For the most current information on the Liam Riazati Memorial Fund, contact:
Ontario Ministry of Education (detailed application portal launching early 2026)
Your local CMSM or DSSAB (Municipal or District authorities overseeing child care in your area)
Your child care licensing officer (for region-specific guidance and timelines)
How HKC Construction Can Support Your Facility’s Safety Upgrades
While the Ontario government and the Liam Riazati Memorial Fund will manage the approval and supply of these barriers, preparing your facility for these upgrades often requires professional construction support. HKC Construction is here to help child care operators prepare their sites and manage the surrounding infrastructure improvements.
1. Site Preparation and Technical Support
Applying for funding often requires technical documentation. While we do not manage the grant process itself, we can provide the construction details you may need for your application:
Site Assessments: We can help identify high-risk areas in your parking lots and playgrounds.
Site Plans: We can assist in creating site sketches or documentation regarding your current layout, which may be required for your application.
Pre-Installation Site Prep: Once approved, your site may need grading, concrete pads, or clearing of existing structures before the government-funded barriers can be installed. HKC ensures your ground is ready for the installation teams.
2. Permit Assistance
If your project requires municipal permits for site alterations or zoning compliance, HKC Construction can assist you in navigating these requirements. We help ensure that any site modifications comply with local building codes and safety standards.
3. Complete Renovation & Infrastructure Services
The government fund covers the barriers, but many centres take this opportunity to upgrade the rest of their facility. HKC Construction specializes in:
Parking Lot Repairs: Fixing potholes, asphalt paving, and line painting while the barriers are being installed.
Playground Enhancements: Updating fencing, grading, or play surfaces adjacent to the new safety zones.
General Renovations: From interior classroom upgrades to accessibility improvements, we provide full general contracting services for child care centres.
Why Partner with HKC Construction?
Sector Experience: We understand the safety protocols and unique needs of operating child care facilities.
Quality Workmanship: Whether it is site preparation or a full renovation, we build to high standards.
Transparent Communication: We work with you to ensure any construction work we perform minimizes disruption to your daily operations.
Contact HKC Construction today to discuss how we can help prepare your facility for safety upgrades and handle your renovation needs.
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