Orange County Coastkeeper and the California State Coastal Conservancy have partnered to provide funding for organizations to purchase and maintain accessibility equipment across the state.
Orange County Coastkeeper (Coastkeeper) is accepting applications for the Beach and Coast Accessibility Program, a statewide initiative reducing barriers to California’s beautiful coastline.
The program will provide grants of up to $30,000 to tribes, nonprofit organizations, and public entities, enabling them to employ accessibility equipment such as beach wheelchairs, walkers, mats, and other devices. In addition to improving beach access, proposals can address accessibility issues impacting communities near coastal lakes, rivers, and bays.
Beginning today, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Before submitting proposals, applicants are encouraged to consult with Coastkeeper staff regarding their projects. As this opportunity is expected to be highly popular, interested parties are advised to apply early. For more information on how to apply, visit coastkeeper.org/bcap.
“Everyone loves California’s coastline, yet not everyone has the same opportunities to enjoy it,” said Garry Brown, founder and president of Orange County Coastkeeper. “We hope that with the funding from this program, organizations and groups around the state can help us break down the barriers that inhibit people from visiting the state’s most precious places, its beaches.”
The Beach and Coast Accessibility Program is the latest iteration of Coastkeeper and the Conservancy’s long-time partnership and commitment to equitable outdoor recreation. This joint effort will expand upon the Conservancy’s already successful beach wheelchair program.
Amy Hutzel, executive officer of the Coastal Conservancy, stated, “The ability for all Californians to access the coast is central to the mission of the State Coastal Conservancy. Adaptive equipment, like beach wheelchairs and mobility mats, enable people with disabilities to experience the sights, sounds, feelings, and fun of our coast. We are excited to team up with Orange County Coastkeeper to get more of this equipment distributed to access points up and down the California coast.”
