RENOVATIONS BENEFIT PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES IN SASKATOON

Renovations to a group home in Saskatoon to create a new three-bedroom independent living suite mean three people with disabilities are now able to live more independently and to stay in their home community. The individuals were previously living in group home settings or in their family homes.

Through the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, Community Resources and Employment provided a one-time capital contribution of $45,000 toward the cost of renovations, and will fund $36,660 annually through its Community Living Division for additional supports for the new residents.

"People with disabilities have made it very clear they want to be independent and part of their communities," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said today while attending the opening of the new suite on behalf of Community Resources and Employment Minister Joanne Crofford. "The province is helping them do just that through partnerships with community-based organizations like Autism Treatment Services and by focusing on the needs of individuals." Cline noted this investment is part of the province's long-term strategy of inclusion in communities for people with disabilities.

"With the support of Community Resources and Employment, we've been able to offer the right amount of support for individuals with Autism that ensures their safety and well-being," Autism Treatment Services of Saskatchewan Inc. Director of Residential Programs Liz Shoofey Stabler said. Autism Treatment Services currently operates two group homes in Saskatoon. They also offer a number of supports, informational and educational services to families in and around Saskatoon who are living with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

October is Autism Awareness Month and Community Living Month in Saskatchewan, an opportunity to promote the importance and benefits of involving people with intellectual disabilities is all aspects of community life.

Since release of the Saskatchewan Council on Disability Action Plan in June 2001, the Saskatchewan government has invested over $17 million to support people with disabilities. This fiscal year, over $2 million has been earmarked to increase capacity within communities to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Miller Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306)787-0531

Liz Shoofey Stabler Autism Treatment Services of Sask. Saskatoon Phone: (306)665-7013