The Manitoba government is taking another step to enhance the quality of life and community inclusiveness for adults with intellectual disabilities, by transitioning residents of Manitoba Developmental Centre (MDC) in Portage la Prairie to community living.
Families Minister Rochelle Squires says this gives them a choice and control over their lives, “It provides opportunities for engagement in their communities, and as a result, their lives are enhanced and enriched. In Canada and around the world, there is a trend away from institutional care toward community living and inclusion, where individuals with intellectual disabilities live as members of their communities, and are valued for their abilities and uniqueness.”
Squires says a total of 133 residents of MDC will make the transition to supportive community living over the next three years, and there will be no immediate changes for MDC staff.
“We recognize the excellent work of staff at MDC and their special relationship with the residents who rely on their care, professionalism and expertise,” said Squires. “We will share information about next steps regularly as we continue to move through this process.”
The minister noted that experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted additional factors supporting the decision to make this change including increased risks associated with institutional settings and the capacity that community agencies have demonstrated to adapt quickly.
In recent years, the province has made a number of significant investments to support Portage la Prairie and the surrounding areas, and planning is underway to build and expand homes in the region to support community living and ongoing economic development.
