Independent Living in Sudbury hosts fundraiser and open house

A group that helps many people live more independently held a pancake fundraiser in Sudbury on Tuesday.

Independent Living Sudbury Manitoulin held a pancake breakfast and an open house Tuesday to make people aware of its programming and all it has to offer.

The group is a non-profit organization that helps people with disabilities achieve independence in their lives.

Organizers said Tuesday’s Pancake Pandemonium fundraiser was held in an environment where everyone belongs.

It’s just one part of the philosophy of the group.

“It’s just this amazing organization right here in our city that supports persons with disabilities to live independently in their homes,” said executive director Angela Gray.

“We teach them how to read, we teach them how to cook, how to budget.”

Officials with Downtown Sudbury came out to support the fundraiser -- and to enjoy some pancakes.

“A lot of members of our community need that bit of assistance to contribute or to feel that they are part of the community and Independent Living Sudbury is that bridge,” said executive director Jeff MacIntyre.

While the non-profit receives some government funding, it relies heavily on fundraising to support its 20 programs.

One that is fully funded by the provincial government is the self-managed attendant care program Independent Living oversees locally and helps members sign up.

Gray said it’s for people with permanent physical disabilities that need attended care but have a cognitive ability to be able to manage funds.

“We teach them how to access Ministry of Health funds on a monthly basis so they can hire their own attendant,” she said.

“You can’t even imagine how much flexibility and control they have in their daily lives.”

Independent Living covers a significant geographical catchment area, from Killarney to Chapleau to Elliot Lake, extending east to Markstay. It currently has more than 500 members.