$18.3 MILLION INVESTMENT IN PEOPLE AND AGENCIES THAT HELP OTHERS

Largest Ever Single Year Funding Increase

Premier Brad Wall today announced an extra $18.3 million for agencies across the province providing crucial services to people in need. This represents the largest-ever single year increase from government to these agencies.

"Part of this money - $13.1 million - is intended to help these agencies recruit new workers or retain existing ones through salary increases and improved benefits," Wall said. "Combine that with the 2.3 per cent salary increase announced in the last provincial budget, and this represents an unprecedented $16 million increase (9.3 per cent)."

Today's announcement will benefit more than 6000 Community Based Organization (CBO) workers at 680 agencies across Saskatchewan.

"Places like Cosmo Learning Centre in Regina, The Society for the Involvement of Good Neighbours (SIGN) in Yorkton, The Saskatchewan Literacy Network headquartered in Saskatoon - these agencies and others like them, do most of the heavy lifting," Wall said. "And today's announcement is recognition of that."

The rest of this additional money - $5.2 million - will go to improving a variety of different services, including:

• $1.4 million more for mobile crisis units in Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert. These units provide after-hour emergency child protection and income assistance support;
• $1.3 million more for family support services;
• $2.1 million to increase assistance rates paid to approved private service homes and private care homes; and
• $132,000 for First Nations child and family services programs.

"We're committed to working proactively with CBOs to address the challenges and opportunities of Saskatchewan's healthy economy, and ensure the delivery of quality, sustainable services," Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer said. "This significant mid-year investment in CBOs demonstrates our appreciation for their invaluable contributions, dedication and commitment to the citizens of Saskatchewan."

Letters will be sent immediately to each agency funded with details of their funding increase.

Beginning September 15, the Province will again reach out to CBOs at five regional summits, with the goal of strengthening the delivery of services to Saskatchewan people. Additional information on the summits is available on the Internet at www.socialservices.gov.sk.ca/cbosummit.

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For more information, contact:

Brian Miller
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0531
Email: brian.miller3@gov.sk.ca

Kathy Young
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0425
Email: kathy.young@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-526-8927