Community Living Ontario applauds new budget increases for people who have an intellectual disability and their families

TORONTO, April 11, 2014 /CNW/ - Community Living Ontario applauds this morning's announcement by the Wynne government and Minister Ted McMeekin for their unprecedented investment in people who have an intellectual disability, and their families.

"Today's announced funding has the potential to significantly increase the availability of services for thousands of families and individuals in Ontario. We applaud the government for recognizing the tremendous need expressed by individuals and families throughout Ontario," says Chris Beesley, CEO of Community Living Ontario.

Prior to today's funding announcement, thousands of individuals and families were waiting for critical daily living supports and services with no indication when, if ever, their needs might be addressed.  The government today committed to eliminate, within four years, the wait lists for two critical programs - Special Services at Home and Passport. Once the new funding is fully allocated, the government predicts that all of the 21,000 individuals and families that are waiting will receive the help they need.  This commitment will greatly ease the stress that many currently experience - they can now plan for the future with a greater degree of confidence that they will soon receive the supports they require. In addition, this funding will provide assistance to more than 1,400 individuals who are waiting for housing support. This funding should also provide a degree of support for service organizations to remain effective in responding to the needs of people in their community.

About Community Living Ontario
Founded in 1953, Community Living Ontario is a non-profit, provincial association that advocates for people who have an intellectual disability to be fully included in all aspects of community life. The goal of Community Living Ontario is "that all persons live in a state of dignity, share in all elements of living in the community, and have the opportunity to participate effectively." Community Living Ontario has over 12,000 members and represents 107 local Community Living Associations across Ontario. Learn more at www.communitylivingontario.ca.

Image with caption: "Community Living Ontario applauds new budget increases for people who have an intellectual disability and their families (CNW Group/Community Living Ontario)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140411_C9587_PHOTO_EN_39170.jpg

SOURCE: Community Living Ontario

Kismet Baun 
Director of Marketing and Communications 
Community Living Ontario 
Direct [phone] ext. 223 
Cell: [phone] 
E-mail: [email protected]