Thanks to a $4000 donation from Saskatchewan Families for Effective Autism Treatment (SaskFEAT), the Yorkton branch of SaskAbilities will be support the service delivery of respite and mentorship services, for children and youth with autism.
SaskFEAT is a provincial organization made up of families, friends and dedicated professionals who have a genuine interest and concern with the well-being and development of individuals with autism or within the autism spectrum. For over 17 years, SaskFEAT has actively been supporting individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorder, their families, caregivers, and their communities. It is estimated that one in every 68 children is born with an Autism Spectrum Disorder in Canada; this number does not include the numerous family members and caregivers whose lives are impacted by autism.
In a release SaskAbilities stated it was honoured to align with SaskFEAT; a provincial organization that provides resources and strength to those of all ages impacted by autism.
“With the funds received from SaskFEAT, SaskAbilities will offer planned and emergency respite services, as well as quality mentoring time to children and youth that require one to one supports to participate in the community,” said Program Manager of SaskAbilities Yorkton Branch, Aleks Hoeber.
Respite Services is a priority need for families and individuals experiencing disability. It is the goal of SaskAbilities to provide qualified respite workers to families in need. The approach is to provide families breaks from caregiving, as well as an opportunity for children and youth experiencing disability, including autism, to develop connections with others through mentorship by participating in safe, fun, and preferred activities in an environment of their choice (facility, community, home). A variety of respite options are available to meet the diverse needs of the individuals and families utilizing the respite services, stared the release.
SaskAbilities continues to expand the innovative programs and services that are available to individuals experiencing disability and their families. The Grand Opening of the Sensory Gym is planned for July 2018. The SaskAbilities Sensory Gym will be committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and fun environment to foster exploration and safe sensory experiences for children experiencing disabilities, their siblings, and friends. The Sensory Gym will provide children with a fun and motivational environment to help them in the areas of strength, movement, sensory processing, social interactions, and self-regulations skills. The unique equipment will assist these children in their neurological growth and development.
Arden Fiola from SaskFEAT visited the Yorkton Branch to deliver the donation.
“SaskFEAT is grateful for the services and supports that are provided by SaskAbilities to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and their families and caregivers that are impacted by Autism. Thank you SaskAbilities for continuing the growing partnership with SaskFEAT, and making a positive impact on individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Parkland,” he said.
The funds received will have a lasting and far-reaching positive impact on many individuals and their families.
For more information please contact: Aleks Hoeber Program Manager Yorkton Branch [email protected] (306)782-2463 or Deana Jesmer Community Relations Coordinator SaskAbilities Yorkton Branch SaskAbilities [email protected] (306)782-2463
