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On September 9, 2004, the Minister of Community and Social Services, the Honourable Sandra Pupatello
announced that the McGuinty government will close Huronia Regional Centre (HRC) in Orillia, a centre for
the developmentally disabled along with two other centres by March 31, 2009. The government states,
“The closure of the facilities completes the move from an institution-based system to a community-based
system that promotes inclusion, independence and choice.”
I have a sister, Shirley, with severe Downs Syndrome, who is 52 years old and this has been her home for
46 years. HRC is a safe, secure community oriented centre with qualified caregivers, with all the needed
services on site. Not a jail like the government’s word “institution” likes to portray.
HRC has been upgraded with provincial tax dollars (yours and mine) to provide specific needs of the
physically and mentally disabled and recognizes and supports the specific needs of this aging population.
Most of the 350 residents are seniors who require intensive care. The centre has its own doctor, special
care unit, dentist, dietician, physiotherapist, audio services, and a pool for aqua therapy. Where are these
going to come from in communities that already have a shortfall?
Shirley does go out into the community to shop and attend community events accompanied by staff and
then returns to her safe and secure home. At her home she can travel through underground safe
corridors to get to where she wants or needs to go without crossing a street or going out in inclement
weather.
Many residents have no idea of right from wrong. Many cannot cope with any kind of change and their
behaviours are NOT going to change at this stage of their lives. Why does the government want to evict
these residents from their community and families that have developed over years of being together, to
group homes? This devastating and ill thought out decision has to be reversed.
I am hoping you will consider helping me by signing a petition and/or writing a short note to our MPP, Carol
Mitchell and ask her to express the communities concern to the Honourable Sandra Pupatello and her
Ministry. I have a meeting planned with Carol Mitchell on February 3rd at her Clinton office and it would
help for her to know of your concerns. For more information or if you are willing to help, please call me at
887-8860, there is also a website you can visit (www.savehuroniacenter.com).