Access Awareness Week May 31-June 6

Affordable and accessible housing will be highlighted during Access Awareness Week, Sunday, May 31 to Saturday, June 6.

The week, with the theme Accessible Housing: Building the Foundation for Inclusive Communities, will promote the importance of bringing issues of disability and accessibility to the public.

"This year's theme celebrates the strides we have made in obtaining more accessible and affordable housing for Nova Scotians with disabilities," said Anne MacRae, executive director of the Disabled Persons Commission.

On June 1, a proclamation will be read and signed at the Breakfast of Inclusion, held at the Mariott Harbourfront Hotel in Halifax.

Dan Troke, director of housing services, Department of Community Services, will talk about the progress made by the province to provide accessible, affordable housing to for Nova Scotians with disabilities.

"All Nova Scotians, regardless of abilities, should have access to accessible and affordable housing," said Mr. Troke. "We are pleased to join in this celebration and look forward to continuing our partnership with the Disabled Persons Commission and the Partnership for Access Awareness Nova Scotia."

The Mel Hebb Hourglass Action Awards will also be presented at the breakfast. The awards are for Nova Scotians who have made a meaningful contribution to the lives of persons with disabilities.

The week will end with a scholarship luncheon Friday, June 5, at the World Trade and Convention Center in Halifax. Eight students from across the province will be presented with scholarships to begin or complete post-secondary education or training.

Access Awareness Week promotes and celebrates inclusion and accessibility in all forms. The week is organized by the Partnership for Access Awareness Nova Scotia, with help from the Disabled Persons Commission.

For a list of events and guest speakers visit the Partnership for Access Awareness Nova Scotia website at www.paans.ca .