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 Help You Navigate the Grant Process and Build Your Project
Securing grants is just the first step, the real challenge is turning that funding into a safe, compliant, beautifully executed facility. HKC Construction specializes in helping child care operators and educational facilities navigate the full journey from grant approval to project completion.
Grant and Permit Support
Grant Application Assistance: We help you prepare comprehensive applications for the Liam Riazati Memorial Fund and other early learning funding programs, ensuring all documentation is complete and competitive.
Permit and Compliance: HKC manages all required permits, zoning approvals, and regulatory compliance with Ontario's child care and building codes.
Documentation and Planning: We provide detailed site assessments, plans, and specifications that support your grant application and ensure smooth project execution.
Complete Construction and Renovation Services
Once your grant is approved, HKC handles the entire build, from design through final inspection:
Barrier Installation: Professional installation of safety barriers, bollards, and protective measures that meet Ontario's safety standards and the grant fund requirements.
Site Upgrades: Parking lot safety improvements, playground enhancements, entrance modifications, and other infrastructure work to support the grant scope.
Renovation and Build: For child care centres expanding or upgrading beyond barrier installation, HKC offers full renovation services including structural work, MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), finishes, and accessibility improvements.
Project Management: End-to-end oversight ensuring projects stay on budget, on schedule, and fully compliant with regulations.
Why Partner with HKC
Experience in the Sector: HKC understands the unique requirements of child care facilities, early learning centres, and educational spaces.
Grant-Ready Expertise: We know what funders expect and deliver projects that meet and exceed compliance standards.
Transparent Communication: Regular updates and clear cost management help you maximize grant funding and minimize surprises.
Quality and Safety First: Every project is built to the highest safety and quality standards, protecting children and providing peace of mind.
Contact HKC Construction today to discuss how we can help you secure grant funding, obtain permits, and complete your child care facility project on time and within budget.
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