Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark says non-profit community groups have until June 27 to submit an application to the Seniors Community Grant program.
The Seniors Community Grant Program will invest up to $3 million in grants to partner with non-profit groups and municipalities in Leeds and Grenville and across Ontario to co-ordinate and deliver local supports and programs to seniors. The application process is open until June 27 for community groups to apply for funding from $1,000 up to $25,000.
“Seniors in Ontario want to remain healthy, active and socially connected within their own communities,” said Clark. “For many seniors on a fixed income, it is difficult to access affordable programs and services. I’m proud our government is protecting what matters most to our seniors by announcing funding for projects that will provide local supports and services for seniors.”
“At the current rate of growth, Ontario’s senior population is increasing by over 100,000 people every year. Seniors built this province and our government is committed to helping seniors live independent, healthy, active and engaged lives,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “We are working with non-profit organizations, community groups and municipalities to support projects that help seniors stay connected to their communities, access programs or volunteer.”
Minister Cho added that this year’s program is designed to better support the unique needs of seniors living in underserviced rural, remote, multicultural and Francophone communities. “We are looking to promote projects that prevent social isolation and elder abuse,” he said.
Steve Clark welcomed the program’s focus on seniors in rural areas.
“The Seniors Community Grant Program is a great opportunity for seniors in Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes to be more active and engaged. The funding will help seniors access more local programming and services that will benefit their wellbeing. We also know that when seniors are engaged and involved in their communities, they are less likely to suffer from social isolation and elder abuse. That is why this support is vital to seniors and their families in our community.”
Larger incorporated organizations can also now access a “one-window” application service through Grants Ontario at: www.ontario.ca/page/information-seniors-organizations#section-2. This website will handle application intake, review, and reporting that help make the program more efficient.
By 2023, there will be 3 million Ontarians over the age of 65. Active aging brings positive health benefits including reduced risk of dementia, anxiety and depression. 30% of Canadian seniors are at risk of becoming socially isolated. Social isolation is a key risk factor for elder abuse, hospitalization and re-admission among older adults.
General questions about the program can be answered by calling 1-833-SCG INFO (1-833-724-4636), or by emailing seniorscommunitygrant@ontario.ca.
