A NEW service in the city will expand opportunities for both support of people with disabilities and employment in the region.
Officially opening its doors this week, Minda will offer a range of services and programs locally as they work to engage with the community.
“Minda has a strong presence and reputation for excellence in the southern metropolitan area and more recently in Adelaide’s north, so it is fantastic to now expand into other parts of the state,” chief executive officer Cathy Miller said.
“We already support more than 1700 people with disability in metropolitan and regional South Australia and the community has told us there is significant unmet need in the Limestone Coast region due to the limited existing services available.
“In partnership with the State Government through a Future Jobs fund grant, this will also create 100 jobs and provide a range of additional economic benefits to the local community.”
With the rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) late last year, Ms Miller said Minda will also provide advice to local families on how the changes may impact on their specific circumstances and needs.
“Disability Choices is the gateway to services and support at Minda and we are proud to set the benchmark in South Australia when it comes to individualised program options that put a person at the very centre of decision making,” she said.
“Families have told us they are lost when it comes to knowing what they or their child wants or needs and are confused about what is available to them.
“Minda will help them to better understand the NDIS and what it means to individuals and their families.”
However, Ms Miller said there were several other services provided by Minda that will also benefit the community.
“We expect strong local demand for our highly popular MyPATH day program, as well as allied health services, and we also plan to explore the need for accommodation and respite service options for people with disability in the region,” she said.
“This week we had our first psychologist visit with the other services available in due course.”
Welcoming Minda to the city at the official opening, Mayor Andrew Lee said it was a great first step following the NDIS rollout and a chance to assist people with a disability to feel valued in the community.
“We are very happy to welcome Minda to Mount Gambier and the region and look forward to developing a good and long relationship with them,” he said.
“The City of Mount Gambier will continue to work with and assist in provision of services for community members.”
