Disability organization may be forced to close

A group that helps people with disabilities in Newfoundland and Labrador may close its doors soon.

The Coalition of Persons with Disabilities has said it can't survive cuts in provincial and federal funding.

In a letter to members, Michelle Murdoch, the president of the Coalition of Persons with Disabilities, said it would be irresponsible to operate without having stable yearly funding, and she has recommended the office be closed.

Murdoch said the group needs $160,000 annually to pay for an accessible office, an executive director, and someone to do policy research.

"We have responsibilities as a board. We have to pay our employees," said Murdoch. 

Group does lobbying and outreach work 

The Coalition of Persons with Disabilities helps people with disabilities and their families navigate through government bureaucracy to access support services. It also works with government to advocate for new policies and does education and outreach work. It has more than 700 members.

Murdoch said shutting down will leave a void and will upset the people and families who require its services.

"There's absolutely economic return to investing in persons with disabilities," said Murdoch.  "There's been so little actual investment over the last few years and it seems to be getting worse and worse."

"It's critical that we're not left behind during these times of surplus in our province, and that's what's happening."

The group will hold a general meeting on Feb. 6 to decide on her recommendation to close.