Released on September 8, 2011
A new group home for people with intellectual disabilities officially opened today in Meadow Lake.
The project was made possible by a partnership between Multiworks Vocational Training Corporation, Inc., a community-based organization (CBO) and the Ministry of Social Services, which provided capital funding of $250,000 toward the construction costs.
"We applaud the tremendous vision and commitment of the board of directors and staff of Multiworks Vocational Training Corporation, Inc. for completing this project on behalf of people with intellectual disabilities and their families in Meadow Lake and area," Enterprise Minister Jeremy Harrison said on behalf of Social Services Minister June Draude. "Community-based organizations such as Multiworks play a valuable role in supporting people with intellectual disabilities to be included in their communities."
The new group home will serve four people with intellectual disabilities. In addition to the capital funding, Social Services will also provide more than $336,000 in annualized operating funding to Multiworks in 2011-12 for operation of the new group home, as well as for increased day program funding to support people with intellectual disabilities.
"We are thrilled with the generous financial support provided to this project by the Government of Saskatchewan through the Ministry of Social Services," Multiworks Chair Unita Esau said. "Our CBO now operates three group homes for people with intellectual disabilities in Meadow Lake, as well as a group living home, a day program, and a supported independent living program."
The capital funding allocated to this project is part of the provincial government's four-year, $76.9 million commitment to eliminate the waitlist of 440 Saskatchewan people with intellectual disabilities who require programs and services.
First announced in October 2008, the $76.9 million waitlist initiative includes $27.8 million in funding for capital projects. It is the largest investment in Saskatchewan history to support people with intellectual disabilities. By the end of 2011-12, services for 373 people - or 85 per cent of the waitlist - will be in place or in development with CBOs across Saskatchewan.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Brian Miller
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0531
Email: brian.miller3@gov.sk.ca