Our personal assistance for leisure activities (PAL) program makes joining our programs possible, comfortable and more enjoyable for people with disabilities.
On this page:
About the PAL card program
With a PAL card, people with disabilities can bring a helper, often a friend or family member, to help them take part in city-run programs. In most cases, there is no extra cost as the helper is there to make sure you can participate and enjoy the activity and not there to participate themselves.
We accept the PAL card for city-run programs, including:
- public swims
- public skates at arenas
- community centres
- golf courses
To use your PAL card, present the card when paying your program fees. The membership will also be listed on your ActiveNet account.
You cannot use the PAL card for ticketed events at our facilities run by third party organizations, businesses or promoters.
Eligibility
Anyone who is older than four years old and has a disability that restricts them from performing activities, which has lasted longer than six months and cannot be eliminated by the use of a technical aide, such as eyeglasses, is eligible for a PAL card.
Temporary PAL cards are available for those with temporary disabilities.
Attendants must be 15 years of age or older. Different attendants can help the program participant on different days.
Application
You can apply for a PAL card online. If you have any questions or need help, call 519-741-2200, ext. 7228
You will need to include two references on your application. We will contact both references to ensure you're eligible for a PAL card.
If your application is approved, we will mail your PAL card to you.
Partners
Open the accordions below to learn about our PAL card partners and use criteria.
If a program or business is not included on our list, and you would like to use your PAL card to take part, please contact them directly to ask if they PAL card is accepted. If you are aware of a program that accepts the PAL card and it is not listed, please let us know and we'll add it to our list.
When the PAL card is not accepted
The PAL card is not accepted for ticketed events held at municipal facilities that are run by external organizations, businesses or promoters.
Adult supervision
Where program or facility policies require adult supervision of a child, the PAL card will not be accepted and the adult participating with the child who has a disability will have to pay the program fee (for example, a family swim where a child is too young to swim alone).
Access 2 Card
The Access 2 Card through Easter Seals offers access to entertainment venues (Cineplex, Imagine, Landmark and Rainbow Cinemas). It is not part of the PAL card program. Apply for an Access 2 Card on their website.