More Than Just an Elevator: Celebrating Accessibility and Belonging

On September 17, 2026 we gathered for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the official opening of our new self-operating elevator! 

While an elevator may seem like a standard building infrastructure for our community members who navigate physical barriers it represents independence, dignity, and personal choice. Replacing our old attendant-operated keyed lift with a reliable self-serve elevator ensures that people can better access meals and supports.

Moving from the Margins to the Middle of Community
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During the celebration, RCM Executive Director Kevin Coghill reflected on the deeper purpose behind the new addition: 

"It is not just about getting from one floor to another. It is about getting people from the margins into the middle of community. It is about giving people without options another option. Giving people without choice a little more choice. Giving people independence and dignity. Accessibility isn't simply about getting people through a door. It is about making sure they know they belong once they get through it."

Royal City Mission Executive Director Kevin Coghill (left) holds the ribbon as Chris Schuett of Delta Elevator Company cuts it to celebrate the official opening of the new elevator.

Honoured with a Provincial Access Recognition Award

We were deeply privileged to welcome Guelph MPP Mike Schreiner to the ceremony, who presented Royal City Mission with a provincial Access Recognition Award. This recognition builds on the award RCM received earlier this summer from the Guelph Barrier-Free Committee for our accessible washroom, shower, and laundry project.

"I deeply appreciate that Royal City Mission empowers people in an inclusive, barrier-free, accessible space for everyone," said MPP Mike Schreiner.

Caption: Guelph MPP Mike Schreiner (right) presents Royal City Mission Executive Director Kevin Coghill with the provincial Access Recognition Award.

​Why Accessibility Matters

Accessibility and community health go hand-in-hand. Results from the 2024 Point-in-Time Count in Guelph highlight just how closely health, mobility, and poverty intersect among the 335 unhoused individuals identified in our city:

• 33% reported physical mobility challenges.
• 43% reported an illness or medical condition.
• 34% reported sight or hearing challenges.
• 34% reported a learning, intellectual, developmental, or cognitive challenge.
• 71% reported mental health issues, and 31% reported an acquired brain injury.
• 79% experienced two or more of these intersecting challenges.

Removing physical barriers at our downtown space ensures that neighbours navigating these complex challenges can sit at the table, share a meal, and connect with a supportive community without extra obstacles in their way.

Heartfelt Thanks to Our Partners & Community

This project was made possible through the generosity and hard work of so many dedicated partners:

• Lohr Builders Limited for leading construction with care.
• Delta Elevator for expert installation and generous financial support as a major donor.
• OPIRG Guelph and our incredible individual donors whose gifts brought this project to life.
• Barrier Free Guelph for their city-wide leadership and advocacy.
• Daniel Bell, RCM Facilities Manager and project lead, for guiding this transformation from start to finish.
  
• Our Community Members for graciously navigating the building during construction.

Thank you to everyone who believes that accessible spaces create stronger communities. Today is a great step forward and we will keep working to build a space where everyone is welcomed, valued, and included!

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