PDD cuts force closure of Calgary work experience program

Axed program provided jobs for 36 adults with severe disabilities

EDMONTON – “By cutting half a million dollars from community support programs for Persons with Developmental Disabilities, the PC government has turned its back on at least three dozen Calgarians and their families,” NDP MLA Rachel Notley said today.

Today is the last day Calgary’s Hull Services will operate the HOPE Work Experience program, which offers job placements to 36 people with disabilities and provides them with opportunities for development, improved self-esteem and life skills.

The program ends following a reduction in PDD funding from the Stelmach government, which has negatively affected several service providers.

Notley has received letters from Calgary parents of PDD clients frustrated by the loss of the HOPE program.

“Care-givers now face the difficult decision of trying to care for high-needs individuals on their own, or placing them with other agencies - many of which pay staff low wages and do not offer services comparable to HOPE,” Notley said.

She said individuals with developmental disabilities are being victimized by government cuts.

“This government continues to attack the poor and vulnerable by targeting cuts towards marginalized groups. Quality of life will continue to suffer for PDD clients so long as this government continues to treat them like second-class citizens.”