SaskAbilities 2020 Annual Report

SASKATOON
BRANCH
A YEAR IN REVIEW
The Saskatoon Branch experienced a great deal of change in 2020,
much of which was necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Programs
and services became increasingly diverse and innovative as the Branch
sought new ways to engage safely with clients. Clients were provided
with additional choices in the delivery of programs and services –
staying connected through remote resources like Microsoft Teams
and other video software, as well as individual one-to-one in-person
meetings instead of the more typical group formats.
Clients and staff adapted to these changes quickly and successfully as
the increased flexibility of program offerings and delivery were well
received. The Training Centre remained operational throughout the
pandemic. With help and support from across the Branch, customer
products were manufactured and delivered on time. The Sewing
Department answered the community’s call for personal protective
equipment by manufacturing face masks.
Additional changes included the creation and launch of the Respite
Program which focuses on providing additional supports to caregivers
and individuals experiencing disability. In late 2020, the Saskatoon
Branch was awarded two new day programs which increased capacity
and additional services for adults experiencing intellectual disability.
While the COVID-19 pandemic brought immense uncertainty and
change, the Saskatoon Branch reflects on the continued support
of the many members with such gratitude. It is with the support of
the clients, staff members and management, Board of Directors and
funders that the Saskatoon Branch was able to move forward in this
unusual time.
THE
NUMBERS
116
vocational evaluations
in 2020
101
clients in Quality of Life
452
jobs for clients found
through Partners in
Employment programs
22,400,000
containers processed at
SARCAN Saskatoon
29
families and caregivers
supported through the
Saskatoon Branch Respite
Program
8