PROVINCE INVESTS IN EXPANDED PROGRAMMING FOR PEOPLE WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES

The Government of Saskatchewan is investing in a new program offered by the Saskatchewan Abilities Council in Regina. The funding, delivered through the Ministry of Social Services, will enable the Abilities Council to expand its existing facility in Regina and launch the new Quality of Life day program. The province is providing $350,000 in capital funding for the project, and will invest $98,000 a year in operational funding.

"This is money very well invested," Social Services Minister June Draude said. "Our government is happy to support our community partners, such as the Abilities Council, in their efforts to help people with intellectual disabilities play a full and active role in their communities. This investment will make a big difference in the lives of the people who take part in the program."

The Quality of Life program works with individuals who require a non-vocational day program, including people with recurring behavioural challenges, declining skills and increasing age. It concentrates on providing community-based opportunities to improve existing skills while facilitating the learning of new skills and providing support to the changes in the lives of participants.

"The Saskatchewan Abilities Council is pleased that the Ministry of Social Services is making this investment in the Council to assist individuals with disabilities in Regina," Saskatchewan Abilities Council Regional Director Karen Moore said. "The Quality of Life Centre expands our service delivery and offers a community-based program that will help individuals to improve their quality of life. Our employees are excited about the renovation project and planning is well underway."

Once the building expansion is completed, the Abilities Council will offer programming for 21 people through the Quality of Life program. Four people from the Community Living waitlist will take part in the program while the construction work is underway. Construction is expected to begin by the end of the year.

The funding for this initiative is part of the provincial government's multi-year commitment to address the waitlist of 440 Saskatchewan people with intellectual disabilities who need specialized, residential and day programs. The government is on track to complete the wait list initiative by the end of March, 2013.

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For more information, contact:

Pete Paczko
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0531
Email: pete.paczko@gov.sk.ca