New Monies Support Increased Services to Children with Special Needs

FOR RELEASE #09-080
March 27, 2009

WHITEHORSE – Health and Social Services Minister Glenn Hart announced an increase in funding to the Child Development Centre (CDC), pending legislative approval.The centre provides speech and language services, social and emotional development and integrated therapeutic programming for children from birth to preschool age. Child Development Centre will use the additional $100,000 in funding to hire a psychologist.

“It is important to have the appropriate supports in place during the critical growth and developmental stages in a young child’s life. The Child Development Centre is fundamental to the development and success of special needs children,” Hart said. “Having a psychologist on staff will further assist both children and their families.”

“The mental and emotional well-being of young children is critical to their healthy development and we applaud this government for recognizing the importance of the child psychologist in providing this support,” CDC executive director Irene Szabla said. “With early diagnosis of autism, fetal alcohol syndrome, as well as the effects of trauma and other conditions that affect youngsters, the psychologist plays a significant role in helping children to achieve their fullest potential.”

“The CDC is experiencing an increase in referrals and service requests from throughout Yukon,” Hart added. “Fortunately, CDC staff is very skilled at what they do and responds in ways that benefit all.”

For more information visit: www.cdcyukon.ca.

-30-

Contact:

Roxanne Vallevand
Cabinet Communications
867-633-7949
roxanne.vallevand@gov.yk.ca

Patricia Living
Communications, Health & Social Services
867-667-3673
patricia.living@gov.yk.ca