MINISTER’S MESSAGE
STATEMENT from THE honourable Paul MERRIMAN, MINISTER of Social SERVICES
The Government of Saskatchewan has joined the world in recognizing and celebrating December 3, 2018, as International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was first proclaimed by the United Nations in 1992 to increase awareness and understanding of disability issues and trends, and to mobilize support for practical action by, with and for persons with disabilities. This year’s theme is “empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality.” In 2018, the Government of Saskatchewan promoted the inclusion of persons with disabilities with a number of actions:
Autism Spectrum Disorder Individualized Funding was successfully launched in July.
So far this year, 34 people have transitioned out of Valley View Centre into communities of choice and the province has funded 11 group homes that have opened this year.
The Early Learning Deaf and Hard of Hearing “Children Communicating, Connecting and in Community” pilot program was launched in Regina and Saskatoon.
Homecare Individualized Funding was increased by $1.2 million annually, so more Saskatchewan residents can access the funding option and have choice over their services.
The Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Program is being set up to provide all babies born in the majority of Saskatchewan hospitals with a screening test to detect hearing loss at an earlier age.
Streamlined application process for students with permanent disabilities seeking post-secondary education grants.