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May 19, 2005
McGuinty Announcement regarding Specialized Services is an encouraging beginning!
David Barber, President of Simcoe Community Services, was encouraged by the McGuinty government’s announcement regarding “specialized services” to be established over the next three years.
Simcoe Community Services is currently in the process of revamping and enhancing their accommodation services. Until recently, group homes, SIL (supported independent living) settings and Family Homes were the community residential options available for individuals who have an intellectual disability. In the recent past, Simcoe Community Services has established O’Brien House, a retirement residence, as well as opportunities for some adults to live on their own while still receiving staff support as needed.
“Perhaps the outcomes of this announcement will help to address some of the service gaps existing currently in the community. It also pledges some monies towards additional accommodation options. While welcome, the announcement does not address the under-compensated workers in the field of developmental services or the low rate of subsidy received by individuals who have an intellectual disability.”
It is unclear whether this initiative will assist current families living in the community or those individuals slated to be depopulated in the next four years from the remaining three institutions in Ontario.
David Barber is Past President of Community Living Ontario. For more information contact Reet Skelton at (705) 726-9082 ext 238.