The first progress report on the provincial Social Action Plan outlines achievements in the past year and provides information about future initiatives to create a supportive environment for vulnerable and low income Islanders, says Honourable Valerie E. Docherty, Minister of Community Services and Seniors.
“On behalf of government departments and our community partners, I am pleased that we have made progress and look forward to continuing our efforts to help improve the lives of those in need,” said Minister Docherty. “The Plan demonstrates government’s commitment to the social well-being of Islanders even during this time of fiscal restraint.”
The province’s first Social Action Plan was released in May 2012. In the past year, the province has made progress in providing additional units of affordable housing for Islanders, invested in early learning for Island children, introduced improved employment supports to assist Islanders to connect to employment services in their community and improved access to medications by reducing the cost of drugs.
The goals of the Social Action plan are:
• Support people to move out of poverty by strengthening their educational and economic opportunities and their participation in the labour force.
• Protect and enhance the standard of living and quality of life for those unable to participate in the labour force for whatever reason.
• Provide fair and equitable opportunities for Islanders to participate in and contribute to the cultural, economic and social environment of Prince Edward Island.
“I want to thank the Social Action Plan Working Group, who met frequently
throughout the year to monitor progress, recommend changes and identify action items
for next year,” said Minister Docherty. “Through their collaborative efforts we are in a better position to support each person to achieve his or her full potential and feel valued as a contributing member of the community.”
The 2013 Progress Report on the Prince Edward Island Social Action Plan is available online at www.peisocialactionplan.ca. Questions or comments can be directed to the Department of Community Services and Seniors at (902) 620-3777 or by email at socialactionplan@gov.pe.ca.