PROVINCE ANNOUNCES $76.9 MILLION INVESTMENT AND NEW INCOME PLAN FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

The Province today announced the largest-ever investment in programming for people with intellectual disabilities, as well as the introduction of a new income plan for people with disabilities.

A new $76.9 million, multi-year initiative will help people with intellectual disabilities to live safe, secure and meaningful lives in their communities. This investment will eliminate the current 440-person waitlist for residential, day and specialized programs for people with intellectual disabilities. It will be phased in over a four year period and includes $27.8 million in funding for capital projects. The initiative will also introduce programming standards ensuring the appropriate level of support is provided to individuals and it will improve supports to Approved Private Service Home providers.

"This is the largest investment in the history of the province to support people with intellectual disabilities," Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer said. "Over four years, we will be able to help more than 400 people who are currently on a waiting list for new or expanded services. Support for people with disabilities is a priority for this government, and we are committed to ensuring that everyone in Saskatchewan benefits from the province's prosperity."

Harpauer also announced that the government is committed to developing a new income assistance plan specifically for people with disabilities, separate from the Saskatchewan Assistance Plan. The first phase of the new plan will be initiated in 2009-10.

"In response to requests from the disability community, we will implement a separate assistance plan for people with disabilities beginning in the next budget year," Harpauer said. "We will be consulting with stakeholders in the design and rollout of this program."

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For more information, contact:

Rosann Semchuk
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0980
Email: rosann.semchuk@gov.sk.ca