Community Living Toronto Receives Employment and Modernization Fund

TORONTO, March 10, 2015 /CNW/ - Community Living Toronto has received a $404,097 grant from the Ministry of Community and Social Services' Employment and Modernization Fund to shift our site-based day programs toward increased community-based activities.

The government's investment of $404,097 will allow Community Living Toronto:

• Create the foundation to shift site-based day programs towards increased community-based activities
• Provide all site-based staff with the skills to develop community connections and train the participants in community readiness and travel training
• Develop two pilots that will strategically integrate the participants into community options
• Create a gradual process of sustainability including a train-the-trainer model and options for individuals with Passport dollars to access these services
• Make all processes available throughout the sector via ConnectABILITY.ca

"The grant for our Community First project will enable us to expand our capacity and responsiveness as we shift from a centre-based model to one that offers a variety of options," says Bob Ferguson, Service Development Manager "It will enable us to offer individuals we support a variety of options, including continuing education, supported work, social enterprise, volunteering and participation in social-recreational activities."

This fund is part of the Ontario government's $810 million investment strategy for community and developmental services. It will support the ongoing transformation of the developmental services sector towards greater inclusion and independence for individuals, and to encourage agencies in identifying and providing new approaches and innovative services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities.

To read more about the Employment and Modernization Fund click here: http://www.mcss.gov.on.ca/en/mcss/programs/developmental/emf/index.aspx

About Community Living Toronto

Since 1948 Community Living Toronto has been a grassroots leader in developing community-based services and supports for people with an intellectual disability and their family. One of the largest organizations of its kind in Canada, Community Living Toronto provides services and support to over 6,000 people and their families across Toronto. Our mission is to change the lives of people with an intellectual disability by giving them a voice, and supporting their choices where they live, learn, work and play.

SOURCE Community Living Toronto

Karolina Kluska, Communications Coordinator, Community Living Toronto, t: 647-729-1254, cell: 647-501-2075, e-mail: [email protected]