On March 29th, 2022, the NS Government tabled its budget with large investments in the Disability Support Program. We are very excited to continue to work with the Department of Community Services/ Disability Support program, to advocate for the best supports, and help transition our clients into inclusive community based settings. Since 2014, Breton Ability Centre has reduced its census in our ARC/RRC from 106 to 85 by preparing and transitioning individuals into community based settings and appropriate term care placements. We have also expanded our suite of Community Homes, from 2 homes to 8 homes. Every home supports the unique needs of those who live there, with a focus on person centered and person directed philosophy. Our clients have access to learning, skill building, and training hubs at our specialized Learning and Employment Centre, employment opportunities at our Social Enterprises, and a vibrant social life filled with inclusive community based, and in-house recreation.
Here is the highlights of the 2022-23 budget.
Supporting Nova Scotians
- $54.2 million increase for programs that support adults and children with disabilities
- $18.8 million increase to the Disability Support Program in residential and community-based settings
- $16.4 million to help more clients transition from adult residential centres and residential rehabilitation centres into community-based settings
- $8.8 million to remove the cap on the Independent Living Support program, which helps semi-independent people who need additional support to live on their own
- $3.5 million more to expand the eligibility and increase funding to families under the Direct Family Support for Children program
- $3.5 million to support young adults to transition them out of long-term care homes
- $3.2 million increase for the Disability Support Flex Program which provides individualized funding to people living at home with their families or who live independently with support from their families or personal support networks
- $2.5 million more for the Supportive Care program to provide Nova Scotians with cognitive impairments home support services like personal care, respite, meal preparation and household chores