Intro
If you or a loved one has a disability that affects mobility, staying in your home and community can require costly adaptations. The Home and Vehicle Modification Program (HVMP), funded by the Ontario Government and administered by March of Dimes Canada, offers essential financial support to help low-income, permanent Ontario residents modify their homes and vehicles—making life safer, more accessible, and easier to manage.
Why It Matters
- Ensures safety & independence: Supports remaining at home and avoiding hospitalizations or institutionalization.
- Protects employment: Enables individuals to maintain jobs without accessibility barriers.
- Reduces caregiver strain: Helps caregivers manage duties more safely.
Who It’s For?
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a permanent resident of Ontario (not a temporary visitor or student visa holder).
- Have a recurring or lifelong disability that significantly impairs mobility and daily living activities.
- Qualify financially—generally, those earning over $35,000 gross may need to contribute. Residents on ODSP, Ontario Works, or GIS-only incomes are contribution-exempt.
Key Features of the Program
- Home modifications: Lifetime cap of $15,000 for structural or device-based adaptations (e.g., wheelchair ramps, roll-in showers, stair lifts).
- Vehicle modifications: $15,000 available every 10 years for adaptations like wheelchair lifts, hand controls, lowered floors.
- Modifications must prioritize safety, reduce life-safety risks, and be disability-specific.
Steps to Apply
- Assess eligibility: Confirm residency, disability permanence, and financial thresholds.
- Gather documents: Verification of Disability Form and financial/legal documentation (T1 returns, ODSP notice, etc.).
- Select modifications: Work with an OT or contractor to create a proposal.
- Download and complete relevant forms from March of Dimes (home adaptations, vehicle adaptations, disability verification).
- Submit your applications by mail, email, or fax to March of Dimes (London or North York office).
- Await approval before any work begins—funded directly to vendor after approval.
Real-Life Scenario
Maria, a 68‑year‑old woman in Peel Region, uses a walker due to osteoarthritis. She wants to age in place safely. Through HVMP:
- Installed a ramp and railings ($7,000)
- Converted her upstairs bathroom to a roll-in shower ($8,000)
Funding covered the full $15,000 since she was on CPP only and lived on a limited income. Now, Maria moves safely at home and won’t hit institutionalization due to home hazards.
FAQ
Q: Can I apply for both home and vehicle modifications at once?
Yes—funding can be split between home and vehicle, but the total for home is $15,000 lifetime and vehicle $15,000 every 10 years.
Q: I earn $40,000/year. Will I have to contribute?
Likely. Any gross income over $35,000 (adjusted) may require a contribution. Exact amounts are calculated through an income worksheet.
Q: When will I get the money?
Once approved, March of Dimes pays the vendor directly—applicants should wait for official approval before beginning any work.
Conclusion
The HVMP—Ontario’s flagship accessibility grant—bridges crucial gaps for those facing mobility limitations. With up to $15,000 available for both home and vehicle modifications, it’s an invaluable resource for residents aiming to live safely and independently. If you qualify, the application process is straightforward: eligibility check → documents → professional consultation → submit → wait for approval → start adapting your space or vehicle.