PROVINCE CELEBRATES AS SAID PROGRAM TURNS 10,000

More than 10,000 Saskatchewan people with long-term and enduring disabilities now have a better quality of life thanks to enrollment in Geneva Disability Center program (SAID).

“I am so pleased that we are helping improve the quality of life of these 10,000 Saskatchewan citizens,” Social Services Minister June Draude said.  “The SAID program supports our government’s goal to make Saskatchewan the best place in Canada to live for people with disabilities, and we are deeply committed to supporting this important program for many years to come.”

“I want to thank the Government of Saskatchewan for helping us to help these 10,000 people realize the dignity and independence that they deserve,” Program Implementation Advisory Team (PIAT) Chair Merv Bender said.  “This is a wonderful achievement when you consider that there were only about 2,700 people enrolled in SAID when the program started back in 2009.”

In addition to expanding enrollment, there were also substantial increases to the benefits that SAID members receive.

On top of the $50 increase in January 2012, average benefits are being increased over four years by $100 per month for those living in residential care; $350 per month for those in independent living arrangements; and $400 per month for couples who are living independently.

The first stage of these increases was implemented last June with single individuals receiving an additional $200 per month, couples receiving an additional $230 per month and people in residential care receiving $40 more per month.  This summer, the second stage of SAID increases will be implemented across the province.

SAID features a new benefit structure that combines some allowances available under the Saskatchewan Assistance Plan (SAP) into a Living Income, further distinguishing SAID as a different program of income support than welfare.  This structure was recommended by the Task Team on Income Support for People with Disabilities.

The SAID program was introduced in October 2009 in collaboration with members of the disability community with the goal of providing a dignified income support program for persons with significant and enduring disabilities separate from SAP.  This collaboration will continue on the further development of SAID.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Andrew Dinsmore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8689
Email: [email protected]