Released on September 4, 2019
Today, Social Services Minister Paul Merriman joined community members, dignitaries and day program participants in Saskatoon to celebrate two grand openings for an expanded day program and a new day program with Cosmopolitan Industries.
The Government of Saskatchewan provides more than $8 million in annual funding to Cosmopolitan Industries to provide day program supports for people with intellectual disabilities. Funding of $20,000 was provided for the expansion of the day program in Market Mall to support an additional 10 people. Funding of $120,000 was provided to cover startup costs for the new day program on Acadia Drive that will support 20 people.
“Day programs play a valuable role in supporting people to be included in their communities,” Merriman said. “I want to applaud Cosmo Industries for being a part of creating an inclusive community right here in Saskatoon.”
Since 1970, Cosmopolitan Industries has been supporting people with intellectual disabilities. They currently support more than 400 people in Saskatoon.
“We are extremely proud of the programs we provide, recognizing they are highly sought after,” Cosmopolitan Industries Executive Director Sharlene Duquette said. “This is made possible by our very dedicated and qualified staff team and the support of our Board of Directors. We all have the same common goal which is to continue to create opportunities for the men and women within our community with intellectual disabilities. Cosmo is very pleased that in partnership with the Ministry of Social Services’ Community Living Service Delivery we have once again responded to the growing need of programs with the opening and expansion of Acadia and Market Mall. We have been doing amazing things for almost 50 years and don’t plan on stopping.”
These day programs support the Saskatchewan Disability Strategy by providing access to personal supports for people with disabilities. Saskatchewan residents and communities that have done work which aligns with the Disability Strategy are encouraged to share their accomplishments using the hashtag #SKDisability.
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For more information, contact:
Leya Moore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3610
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca