Today, Canora-Pelly MLA Terry Dennis on behalf of Social Services Minister Paul Merriman, celebrated the grand reopening of a newly renovated day program with Mackenzie Society Ventures Inc. (MSVI).
The government provided $322,500 for the renovations which included making the bathroom barrier-free, making the front door automatic for accessibility, completely renovating the kitchen, adding office space and building a personal care room. The day program will support up to 31 people with intellectual disabilities.
“Day programs play a vital role in helping to create inclusive and diverse communities in our province,” Dennis said. “They provide opportunities for employment, social interactions, life skills and often create lifelong friendships for the participants.”
Mackenzie Society Ventures has been supporting people with intellectual disabilities since 1975. Along with this day program, they operate five group homes and a supported independent living program.
“The renovations have been a tremendous rejuvenation to the day program,” Mackenzie Society Ventures Executive Director Gailene Pasiechnik said. “The day program is now a place to come to where the atmosphere is warm, spacious and inviting. The renovations have provided us a building totally accessible and inclusive for all individuals. MSVI wishes to express our sincere appreciation and thanks to the Government of Saskatchewan who are committed to improving the lives of individuals experiencing disabilities in our province. Saskatchewan is truly the best place in Canada to live for people with disabilities.”
This day program renovation supports the Saskatchewan Disability Strategy by creating accessibility and opportunities for inclusion. Saskatchewan residents and communities that have done work that aligns with the Disability Strategy are encouraged to share their accomplishments using the hashtag #SKDisability.
For information on how to access supports for intellectual disabilities, please contact the Community Living Service Delivery office nearest you or email clsd.info@gov.sk.ca.
You can find the nearest office at www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/family-and-social-support/find-a-social-services-office.
