NEW CRISIS SUPPORT PROGRAM FOR PEOPLE WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES

A new province-wide crisis prevention and support program for people with intellectual disabilities was officially launched today in Yorkton.

The Crisis Prevention and Support Program, which will be operated by the Saskatchewan Abilities Council (SAC), aims to prevent people with intellectual disabilities who exhibit on-going severe challenging behaviours from losing placement in residential or day programs. The program will provide workshops and information sessions to service providers in the community. The program will also offer education and behavioural supports to the team of individuals who are supporting a person in crisis or potential crisis.

"This support program will help prevent some of our most vulnerable citizens from having to go through the trauma associated with displacement while furthering the education and skills of our partners who provide these important services," Yorkton MLA Greg Ottenbreit said on behalf of Social Services Minister June Draude.

"We are very pleased to deliver this important program to people of varying abilities and those who support and care for them," Saskatchewan Abilities Council Yorkton Regional Director John Denysek said. "The education, prevention and outreach services provided will make a real difference in the lives of everyone involved."

The Government of Saskatchewan is providing more than $372,000 in funding to SAC to help operate the Crisis Prevention and Support Program. The program is a collaborative initiative between the Ministry of Social Services, community stakeholders including the Regional Health Authority and community-based organizations.

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For more information, contact:

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