In 2003, the Ontario government committed to closing Ontario's last three institutions by 2009. The government invested $276 million to help move nearly 1,000 people into new homes and strengthen community services and supports.

The average age of the residents at Huronia Regional Centre, Rideau Regional Centre and Southwestern Regional Centre was 51, and most had lived in institutions for about 39 years. The government worked closely with residents, families and agencies to find homes with the supports people needed to live in the community.

Through the hard work of communities, agencies, staff and families, many people from these three institutions have re-established relationships with their families, explored opportunities in their new communities, and enjoyed experiences that were simply not possible in an institution.