Local organizations supporting those with disabilities and multiple barriers have been working to maintain that assistance through the pandemic. (submitted photo/Prairie Employment Program)

By Josh Ryan

Maintaining assistance

Local organizations supporting special needs residents adjusting to pandemic

Apr 2, 2021 | 8:50 AM

Amongst the services adjusting to the COVID-19 pandemic, in spite of specific challenges, are those supporting people with disabilities and/or multiple barriers.

Several groups that provide support to disabled individuals have been able to keep much of their workflow the same, but are severely limiting their face-to-face interactions. Kim Morrison of Catholic Family Services in the Battlefords, said they still partner with Haven-4-8 to provide housing for clients with disabilities but have had to adjust their two programs. One is a supported independent living program, the other helps clients participate in different activities and interact with others.

“It’s to have a social network and have things and activities to do as part of their day, to enhance quality of life,” Morrison said.

These group programs have largely been put to the side. Morrison said that part of the reasoning is many clients are nervous.

“Some feel uncomfortable with accessing services and activities right now,” she said. “We really keep safety as a priority and we do the best we can.”

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Because a lot of support work takes place in homes, Morrison said that’s ultimately been the biggest challenge.

“We help people find places to live but also help them in their home and that’s required a shift,” she said. “Where necessary we’re doing that, but it hasn’t been easy.”

Morrison said both staff and clients are looking forward to the summer, despite not knowing exactly what restrictions will be in place by then. Currently, they’re looking at client-driven fundraisers, which include activities that involve creating items that can be sold later for program supplies and future activities. One already in the works in sewing.

“They’re going to learn how to sew and make some pillowcase sets that we’ll sell on a small scale,” Morrison said.

Kathy Wickstrand, executive director of Prairie Employment Program in North Battleford, said the lack of face-to-face interaction has presented the biggest issue for them as well. Wickstrand said some clients don’t have phones, internet, which has made introductions tricky.

“When someone is new to us, we try to bring them in at least once for a face-to-face meeting,” she said. “Of course, following all the protocols.”

Wickstrand said their work to connect clients with employers and help them maintain employment has mostly maintained, but they’ve also had some difficulty, with many clients losing their jobs. However, she’s been pleased with the support of business owners

“In that situation, we helped people get onto CERB, EI, and those kinds of supports for people that need assistance,” she said. “But we also have people back working again, so it’s a positive thing to know we have employers who understand the value of hiring and employing underrepresented people.”

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