Released on July 23, 2015
Today sod was turned to officially mark the start of construction for the Battlefords Trade and Education Centre’s (BTEC) new day program facility that will serve 66 individuals with intellectual disabilities in North Battleford and area. The Battlefords MLA Herb Cox was joined by North Battleford Mayor Ian Hamilton, Battleford Mayor Derek Mahon and other dignitaries at the ceremony held at the facility’s future site, located at the corner of Railway Avenue and 105th Street.
“Today is an exciting day for the entire Battlefords community and especially to those individuals who will take part in various activities at this future centre,” Cox said. “Our government is committed to seeing a new day program facility constructed in North Battleford and ensuring the project meets current and future needs.”
The Government of Saskatchewan provided a total of $4.4 million in capital funding toward the project. Capital funding in the amount of $635,000 was previously advanced to purchase the land and complete architectural drawings.
“Today is an historic day both for the individuals we serve, as well as our organization as a whole,” BTEC Executive Director Mona Leece said. “Our current facility that we have been operating out of for the past two decades is more than 100 years old. The facility has served us well during this time; however, now is a great time to invest in the future of the clients we serve, along with their families.”
The new facility will support 66 individuals in various day programming activities. The future 20,000 square foot (1,858 square metres) building will provide the space needed to expand programming to serve up to 100 individuals in the future. The new facility will feature a room that provides a soothing and stimulating environment, along with several training rooms aimed at developing life and interaction skills for day program participants.
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For more information, contact:
Leya Moore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3610
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca
Mona Leece
Battlefords Trade and Education Centre
North Battleford
Phone: 306-445-6141
Email: mleece.btec@sasktel.net