OASIS recognizes support for families, agencies to mark International Day for Persons with Disabilities

Technology promises hope for nearly a million Ontarians with disabilities

TORONTO, Dec. 3, 2014 /CNW/ - Ottawa, one of Canada's largest cities, has 950,000 people. Now, imagine this whole population struggling to work good jobs and live comfortably. This is a harsh reality for the over 900,000 Ontarians living with disabilities. Fortunately, with more funding and assistance flowing to families and agencies, the reality is improving. Today, on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, OASIS is recognizing the Ministry of Community and Social Services' efforts to end the wait for Ontario's families in line for social assistance.

"The Ministry's eager to get funding out to improve the lives of individuals and their families," said David Barber, president of OASIS. "But there's progress to make. When we hear stories about families having to choose between keeping a child or having them receive proper care elsewhere, it's easy to understand the importance of highlighting this day."

The theme for the 2014 day is "Sustainable Development: The Promise of Technology." It will focus on the role of technology in:

• Developing disaster risk reduction and emergency response programs;
• Creating enabling work environments for persons with disabilities and,
• Crafting disability-inclusive sustainable development goals.

"Technology presents so many opportunities for families and individuals affected by disabilities," said Michelle Marshall, Vice President Executive Director of OASIS. "There's untapped potential in the disability community and through the assistance of technology we can help create better paying jobs, more accessible work environments and more comfortable homes."

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed December 3^rd the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 1992. It aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of those living with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains that will come from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of life. Each year, the day focuses on a different theme.

About OASIS:
OASIS is a volunteer-run, member-driven organization. Its member agencies serve over 65,000 of Ontario's most vulnerable citizens and employ 25,000 full and part-time staff. Its 179 member agencies currently provide more than 85 per cent of all developmental services funded by the Ministry of Community and Social Services.

Image with caption: "Ontario Agencies Supporting Individuals with Special Needs (OASIS) (CNW Group/Ontario Agencies Supporting Individuals with Special Needs (OASIS))". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20141203_C7031_PHOTO_EN_8930.jpg

SOURCE: Ontario Agencies Supporting Individuals with Special Needs (OASIS)

Media contact: David Barber, President, OASIS, [email protected], 1-800-961-9144