Easter Seals Ontario is a charitable organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth with long-term physical disabilities.

We believe that every child, regardless of their abilities, should have the chance to overcome obstacles and make their mark on the world. With our programs and services, we aim to create a more inclusive and accessible society where kids with physical disabilities are valued, respected, and given the opportunities they need to succeed.

For over 100 years, we have broken down barriers and provided the support and resources kids with physical disabilities need to reach their full potential and achieve their dreams. This is only made possible through the generosity and dedication of our donors and supporters.

“With your unwavering support, we will continue to create new pathways for Easter Seals kids to thrive and reach their full potential. As we move forward into another year of growth and innovation, we invite you to join us in this transformative journey.”

Kevin j. Collins, President and CEO / KEVIN KELLY, Chair of the Board

At Easter Seals Ontario, we believe that every child deserves the chance to thrive and make their mark on the world, regardless of their physical abilities. Our programs and services are designed to provide the right environment and support system for children and youth with long-term physical disabilities to reach their full potential.

Thanks to the dedication and generosity of our donors and supporters, we have been able to continue breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for children and youth with physical disabilities to achieve their dreams. Our success in making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve is a testament to the transformative power of our programs and the unwavering support of our community.

Fully Accessible Camp

In 1937, Easter Seals Ontario opened Canada’s first fully accessible summer camp. Today, we own and operate two camp properties and offer industry-leading camping programs that foster confidence and community for kids with physical disabilities.

The Problem & Our Impact

Social and recreational activities are essential for a child’s development, providing opportunities to learn important social skills, creative thinking, problem-solving, and self-regulation. Children and youth with physical disabilities can face additional barriers that limit their participation in these activities. Easter Seals camps provide an inclusive, fully accessible environment that fosters personal growth and independence by removing physical barriers and allowing children to explore a variety of adapted recreational activities. Our camps give kids a chance to build friendships, push boundaries, and discover their full potential.

Education, Advocacy, and Awareness

Post-Secondary Scholarships

There are many students with disabilities that are highly motivated, ambitious, and actively chasing academic goals, but they face financial barriers to education. It can be difficult for families of children with physical disabilities, who incur a lot of expenses, to send their child to post-secondary school. That’s why we’ve created a scholarship program. To give children and youth with disabilities the financial ability to achieve their academic dreams.

Advocacy and Awareness

Easter Seals has been and will always be a voice for children and youth with disabilities. Some of the greatest barriers they face require systemic and societal changes. Through public education initiatives, government consulting, and conference participation, we raise awareness and tackle major issues children and youth with disabilities face.

Our staff have a wealth of knowledge in special education and lead a team of volunteers who participate on Special Education Advisory Committees (SEAC) on school boards across the province to represent the needs of kids with physical disabilities. In 2022, our volunteers participated in over 632 hours of SEAC meetings.