PROVINCE ENHANCES SUPPORT TO GROUP HOME IN ITUNA

Deer Park Villa Inc. of Ituna today received a $29,000 increase in their annual funding from the provincial government, for a total of $584,000 this year, to add program staff and enhance support for two new residents.

The new funding will enable the organization to increase supervision and support for successful transition and placement of two new individuals with disabilities. The individuals recently moved from Valley View Centre in Moose Jaw to the Ituna agency to be closer to their families and home communities.

"The province is pleased to support individuals with disabilities so they can reside and work closer to their home communities with some independence," Community Resources and Employment Minister Glenn Hagel said during a recent event in Ituna. "This initiative is part of the $6 million in new funding this year by the provincial government to support citizenship and participation for persons with disabilities."

"Deer Park Villa has been providing residential and vocational services to individuals with disabilities in Ituna for the past 13 years," Deer Park Villa Chairperson Diane Olech said. "We are proud to respond to the needs of individuals and families, and to provide services to meet those needs here in our community."

Deer Park Villa Inc. currently operates five programs that support 20 people with disabilities in Ituna. They provide in-house day programs, a supportive living program, an activity centre, a supportive employment service, and operation of three group homes.

The government's support for this initiative is consistent with its vision that all Saskatchewan people have opportunities to contribute to and be included in the economic and social life of the province.

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For More Information, Contact:

Herman Hulshof Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306)787-0916

Diane Olech or Lucy Mazden Deer Park Villa Inc. Ituna Phone: (306)795-3154