Investment in Developmental Services Welcome Relief for Families

TORONTO, April 11, 2014 /CNW/ - Congratulations to the Wynne government and Minister Ted McMeekin for an unprecedented investment in the developmental services sector and families and individuals with a developmental disability. 

"This is great news for our sector. It is clear from this morning's announcement that the system has been in desperate need of a serious investment for some time now," says Michelle Palmer, Chair of the Provincial Network. "We are very pleased that the government has developed an action plan to address the thousands of people waiting for support and to stabilize the sector for future generations of people with a developmental disability." 

Today's announcement will address the 16,000 people waiting for direct support over the next four years while providing support to those families and individuals in urgent need, or facing a life transition. Further investment in frontline staff and agencies will help to stabilize the sector and support innovation in housing and employment.

The Provincial Network thanks Minister McMeekin for investing in people with a developmental disability.  "We believe that our continued partnership with government will support the changes necessary to make full inclusion possible," says Palmer. "Transformation of the developmental services sector will be realized when every person in Ontario is supported and living in their community. Today's announcement is a giant step in that direction and we look forward to continue working with government to realize that vision." 

About the Provincial Network

The Provincial Network on Developmental Services represents over 300 non-profit agencies throughout Ontario, consisting of membership from Christian Horizons, Community Living Ontario, Faith and Culture Inclusion Network, Great Lakes Society, Toronto Developmental Services Alliance (TDSA – formerly MARC)), Ontario Agencies Supporting Individuals with Special Needs (OASIS), and the Ontario Association on Developmental Disabilities (OADD). Together we are a network of grass roots volunteer organizations that have played a vital role in the building of inclusive communities throughout the province.

SOURCE: Community Living Toronto

Karen Bell, Community Living Toronto, 416.568.5010