Executive Council
Health and Community Services
Education and Early Childhood Development
October 3, 2016
Promoting Awareness for Health and Well-Being
Autism Awareness Month Officially Proclaimed in Newfoundland and Labrador
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is joining individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder to recognize October as Autism Awareness Month.
"As a government we are focused on enhancing access to high quality services for individuals affected by
Autism Spectrum Disorder. Working with key stakeholder organizations such as the Autism Society ensures we
develop a unified approach to challenges faced by families throughout our province. I encourage all
residents to join in celebrating the vital roles played by our community organizations as we recognize
October as being Autism Awareness Month."
- The Honourable Dwight Ball, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
The Department of Health and Community Services works with the regional health authorities to improve access to clinical services such as speech language pathology, occupational therapy and Autism Spectrum Disorder assessment and diagnosis.
"We recognize the challenges individuals and families are facing. We are working to improve capacity
within the regional health authorities, and we are researching options to implement a more person-centred,
needs-based approach to service delivery. We are committed to ensuring individuals and families receive
accessible, high quality treatments and services that are based on proven effectiveness. We stand together
with our community and government partners as we assist individuals and families affected by Autism
Spectrum Disorder."
- The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services
The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development supports students through a wide variety of services provided by educational professionals such as speech language pathologists, educational psychologists, guidance counsellors, instructional resource teachers and student assistants.
"The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development provides educators with professional learning
opportunities in relation to ASD. We are committed to providing supports to help students with Autism Spectrum
Disorder reach their full potential within the education system."
- The Honourable Dale Kirby, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development
The Provincial Government provides support to the Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador with an annual grant of approximately $507,500, as well as approximately $143,000 for ASNL's Transitions Program.
"This month, we spread awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder and how it impacts not only individuals diagnosed,
but also their families and communities across the province. Together, we can spread awareness, make an impact
and improve people's lives."
- Scott Crocker, Executive Director, Autism Society, Newfoundland and Labrador
For more information about Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, visit
www.autism.nf.net 
.
QUICK FACTS
- The Provincial Government has proclaimed October as Autism Awareness Month in Newfoundland and Labrador.
- The Provincial Government offers an array of programs and services to support individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder in Newfoundland and Labrador.
- The Provincial Government provides support to the Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador with an annual grant of approximately $507,500, as well as approximately $143,000 for ASNL's Transitions Program.
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Media contacts:
|
Michelle Cannizzaro Media Relations Manager Office of the Premier 709-729-3960 michellecannizzaro@gov.nl.ca |
Tina Williams Director of Communications Department of Health and Community Services 709-729-1377, 728-2837 tinawilliams@gov.nl.ca |
|
Lauren Wiseman Director of Communications Department of Education and Early Childhood Development 709-729-0048, 691-7668 laurenwiseman@gov.nl.ca |
Tess Hemeon Manager Advocacy & Communications Autism Society, Newfoundland Labrador 709-722-2803 ext. 232 themeon@autism.nf.net |
2016 10 03 10:45 a.m.