ABOUT US

About us

"The Rideau Regional Centre Association (RRCA) was established in 1962 to help promote a better quality of life for the residents of the Rideau Regional Centre, to enhance and support the Centre's administration and staff, and to bring to the attention of the society (including government) the needs of persons with developmental disabilities. The Association aims to be responsive to the needs of the families and friends of the residents.

Over the years, the Association has provided support and funds to the administration of the Centre for initiatives including Grippen Lake Camp, RRC pool, staff training, safety equipment, social events, furnishings, and many other "extras".

On September 9, 2004 Sandra Pupatello Minister of Community and Social Services, annnounced plans to phase out the three remaining residential institutions for adults with developmental disabilities by March 2009.

RRCA POSITION RRCA is opposed to the Ontario government's closure of the Rideau Regional Centre. This home for over 420 developmentally disabled adults provides comprehensive specialized care that is not available in the community. Closing Rideau will tear residents with multiple physical and intellectual challenges away from their home, their friends, and the programs and services they now enjoy. Families of residents fear severe medical, emotional and psychologically adverse events if these individuals are moved from the Centre.

RRCA PROPOSAL RRCA proposes that the Rideau Regional Centre remain open to capitalize upon, and enhance, the excellent care currently available. The facility has ample accommodation space... its services could easily be broadened to provide specialized care not only to the current population but to individuals in the community who could benefit from palliative, respite, medication stabilization, Alzheimer's, dementia or long term care."
Conni Scott, President, Rideau Regional Centre Association

Since MCSS Minister Sandra Pupatello’s announcement September 4, 2004 that the facility would close March 2009 with discharges to begin September 2005, the Association has waged an active campaign against the closure.