For immediate release February 18, 2021
[HURON-BRUCE] Local MPP Lisa Thompson has announced two projects in Huron-Bruce are receiving grants from the Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility.
The Bluffs at Huron, an adult living community, is receiving $12,250 to help organize social activities for the members. The social activities will encourage social interaction and participation with the dog park, trail to the beach, social events, Canada Day Celebration, and other recreational activities.
The Saugeen Lawn Bowling Club is receiving $3,000 to help make the facility more accessible.
“At the best of times it’s important to keep our seniors active and healthy,” Thompson said. “But during the pandemic, we also want to keep them connected and interactive in safe ways.”
Ontario is investing up to $4.5 million through the Seniors Community Grant Program to support over 180 diverse community projects that will enable older adults to stay connected with their communities from the safety of their home.
The funding is being provided to help non-profit organizations, local services boards and Indigenous groups develop programs that will:
· Help older Ontarians receive the support they need in their community, reducing demand on acute and long-term care
· Ensure Ontarians are less at risk for neglect, abuse and fraud, and that their rights and dignity are protected
· Ensure more older adults are connected and engaged, reducing social isolation and leading to wellness and better health
· Provide more opportunities for older adults to achieve greater financial security and engagement within the community.
The health and safety of Ontario’s older adults remain a key priority for the government. The province is working to ensure that seniors are connected to the programs and activities in their communities that help improve their safety and overall wellbeing.
QUICK FACTS
· The application period for the Seniors Community Grant (SCG) Program opened on June 24 and closed on August 7, 2020.
· This year, the government is supporting over 180 diverse community projects across Ontario.
· Unincorporated and incorporated not-for-profit organizations, local services boards, and Indigenous groups were invited to apply for funding from $1,000 up to $100,000.
· Since the program was established in 2014, nearly 1,900 grants have been provided which have positively impacted the lives of more than half a million seniors.
· By 2023, there will be 3 million Ontarians over the age of 65 – older adults are the province’s fastest growing demographic.
· The SCG Program is the only grant program in the Ontario Government solely dedicated to seniors.
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