Grant and Funding Programs Offered by The McKay Cross Foundation

Role of The McKay Cross Foundation in the funding ecosystem

The McKay Cross Foundation is a privately financed charitable foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life of adults with developmental, physical and high complex care needs. Created in response to the underfunding of adults with special needs by provincial and other sources, the foundation provides targeted financial support to initiatives that help these individuals live more comfortable and meaningful lives.

Operating in the Province of Ontario, the foundation directs its grants to projects that are associated with registered charitable organizations. Its support is intentionally flexible, allowing it to fund a range of activities that directly benefit adults with disabilities and those who care for them.

Main funding themes and types of support

• Proven programs: Funding for established programs that have demonstrated effectiveness in improving the lives of individuals with physical, developmental or complex needs.
• Innovative projects: Support for new, creative initiatives that have strong potential to enhance the independence, inclusion or well-being of disabled adults.
• Caregiver training: Grants for training initiatives that strengthen the skills and capacity of caregivers who support adults with special needs.

The foundation typically provides grants of up to $5,000 per project, with the possibility of awards up to $10,000 in exceptional circumstances. This scale of funding is designed to make a tangible difference for community-based organizations and programs, while enabling the foundation to support multiple initiatives over time.

Eligibility and application process

Eligible projects must be based in Ontario and connected to a registered charitable organization. The foundation emphasizes a clear benefit for adults with developmental, physical or complex care needs, whether through direct services, innovative program design, or enhanced caregiver capacity.

Prospective applicants are invited to submit proposals through the foundation’s online "Apply for Funding" form. Once an application is submitted, the foundation’s team reviews the proposal and follows up with applicants regarding next steps, which may include clarification questions, additional documentation or a funding decision.

Publics supported and overall impact

By focusing on a group that is often underserved in existing funding systems, The McKay Cross Foundation fills an important gap in the support ecosystem for adults with disabilities in Ontario. Its grants help charities pilot new approaches, strengthen effective programs and invest in the people providing day-to-day care. Over time, this targeted financial assistance aims to expand choice, dignity and quality of life for adults with special needs and their families.