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Keeping Seniors Safe and Connected in Nipissing

NIPISSING – MPP Vic Fedeli has announced $ 39,730 in funding for three local organization to help seniors in Nipissing by providing programming that will help them maintain their physical, mental and social well-being as they continue to self-isolate due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“These projects will make a big difference in the lives of seniors here in Nipissing by helping them maintain their autonomy and independence,” said MPP Fedeli. “They will also help to provide meaningful opportunities for older adults to connect with their communities without risking their health.”

“We are grateful for this year’s Seniors Community Grant funding,” Said Peter McIsaac, Mayor of Powassan. “It is more important than ever, to receive this funding as it will allow us to give our seniors the supports they need to combat social-isolation and to stay in touch with the people and things that are important to them.”

Local recipients include

• $ 21, 868 for Near North Palliative Care
• $13, 800 for the Municipality of Powassan
• $ 4, 062 for the Callander Public Library

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.