In 2008, the Government of Manitoba committed $3 million to be distributed over five years to support the solutions process and translational research in Manitoba. Under the leadership of CPA Manitoba, working collaboratively with individuals with SCI and the other stakeholder organizations who serve the province, a provincial SCI Solutions strategy has been developed.

A Provincial Solutions Team has been established to create and implement solutions that respond to the priority needs of people with SCI and related mobility disabilities in Manitoba. In addition, a rehabilitation counsellor has been hired to fill the gaps and augment existing services, and the process is currently underway to hire a second counsellor in the coming year.

The recent implementation of the Manitoba Spinal Cord Injury Research Committee marks the beginning of a coordinated approach to cultivating SCI research in Manitoba. This volunteer group is made up of leaders in the SCI-related research field who are demonstrating a commitment and motivation to ensure local researchers progress with important and relevant SCI-related research allowing Manitoba to provide leadership in this field. It will be important to continue to enhance the linkages between SCI research in Manitoba and that of the Rick Hansen Institute.

Participants in the Manitoba solutions movement include representatives from CPA Manitoba, the Manitoba Wheelchair Sports Association, the SCI research field, acute care and rehab facilities, Ten Ten Sinclair Housing and other organizations, along with individuals living with SCI.

For more information about Rick Hansen Institute activities in Manitoba, please contact:

Ron Burky, Executive Director, CPA Manitoba
204-786-4753
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