SOD-TURNING FOR NEW GROUP HOME IN PORCUPINE PLAIN

Construction will soon begin on a new four-space group home for people with intellectual disabilities in Porcupine Plain.

The project is the result of a partnership between Porcupine Opportunities Program Inc., a community-based organization (CBO), and the Ministry of Social Services, which is providing capital funding of $500,000 for the construction of the new group home, as well as for a new four-space enhanced supported living program for people with intellectual disabilities. Construction of the new group home is expected to be complete by August 2012.

"We applaud the board of directors and staff of Porcupine Opportunities Program for all of their ongoing efforts on behalf of people with intellectual disabilities and their families, including their leadership on this new group home project," Social Services Minister June Draude said. "Community-based organizations such as Porcupine Opportunities Program play a valuable role in supporting people with intellectual disabilities to be included in their communities."

In addition to the capital funding, Social Services will also provide more than $350,000 in annualized funding to Porcupine Opportunities Program for the new group home and enhanced supported living program, once they become operational.

"We are thankful for the support provided to these projects by the Government of Saskatchewan through the Ministry of Social Services," Porcupine Opportunities Program Inc. General Manager Shawn Elder said. "Our new group home and enhanced supported living program will make a tremendous difference in the lives of people with intellectual disabilities and their families in Porcupine Plain and area."

Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC), an agency of Social Services, will manage construction of the group home as a "turnkey project". SHC is working with CBOs across the province, in partnership with the Community Living branch of Social Services, to construct new group homes for people with intellectual disabilities using standard designs approved by the ministry. Porcupine Opportunities Program is the first CBO to participate in such an arrangement with SHC.

The capital funding allocated to this project is part of the provincial government's four-year, $76.9 million commitment to eliminate the waitlist of 440 Saskatchewan people with intellectual disabilities who require programs and services.

First announced in October 2008, the $76.9 million waitlist initiative includes $27.8 million in funding for capital projects. It is the largest investment in Saskatchewan history to support people with intellectual disabilities. By the end of 2011-12, services for 373 people - or 85 per cent of the waitlist - will be in place or in development with CBOs across Saskatchewan.

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For more information, contact:

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