GUELPH – The federal government is investing $125,503 for seven community-based projects in Guelph – projects that will help seniors stay active, informed and socially connected in their community.
The funding was announced on May 30 by Guelph MP Lloyd Longfield on behalf of Canada’s Minister for Seniors, Seamus O’Regan Jr.
This funding was awarded through the most recent call for proposals for community-based projects through the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP).
The following projects will help keep seniors active and involved in the community:
– City of Guelph-Community Growth project: seniors involved with the organization will host gardening workshops along with horticultural therapy to promote healthy living and reduce social isolation;
– Oxford Stone Lodge: purchasing new equipment and upgrades to the activity room to offer social gathering events for seniors in a welcoming environment;
– Guelph Community Health Centre – Creative Conversations, A Season at Shelldale Farm Park: seniors involved with the organization will participate in cooking and gardening workshops, to socialize, connect to the community, and to prevent social isolation;
– Guelph Chinese Canadian Cultural Group-Golden Gatherings: helping seniors participate in physical exercise, art, and dance sessions, and to host celebration events to help seniors engage with the community and prevent social isolation;
– Kindle Communities Organization: the investment with Kindle Communities will go towards the expansion of the seniors’ community garden program, including the creation of additional dedicated seniors’ community garden plots. This investment will help seniors from the Onward Willow community stay active and provide opportunities for engagement and social connections;
– The Guelph Lawn Bowling Club: the organization will purchase high visibility bowls, jacks and mobility aids to provide an enhanced experience for seniors in lawn bowling activities; and
– Guelph Tool Library – Living Better on Less for Seniors: the organization will be offering a hybrid program which will be in-person and/or online for participants, as well as offering a remote program which will be presented to an audience in different communities.
The projects selected support the national priorities for this cycle – supporting healthy aging; preventing senior abuse; celebrating diversity and promoting inclusion; and supporting financial security.
These projects further support the government’s work to help Canadian seniors age with dignity and choice.
This work also includes the new Canadian Dental Care Plan, which has already helped over 46,000 seniors access dental care.
“Loneliness is an awful thing, and too many seniors feel lonely,” said O’Regan.
“They want to be active and feel like they’re part of their community, giving back, helping out, looking after themselves. New Horizons helps make those connections and do all that.”
“Through the New Horizons for Seniors Program, the Government of Canada is providing a wide range of opportunities for seniors in Guelph to participate in meaningful activities where they can share knowledge and skills and build valuable relationships and community connections,” added Longfield.
