The federal government is ramping up support for seniors grappling with economic uncertainty and the rising cost of living, says Bay of Quinte MP Chris Malette.
In response to today’s rapidly shifting global landscape, the government said it’s committed to building a strong, resilient economy, which also enhances quality of life for older Canadians.
To this end, Malette, on behalf of Secretary of State (Seniors) Stephanie McLean, has announced a $22,050 investment into a community-based project in Quinte West, which is also supposed to help seniors stay active, informed and socially connected.
Monies are coming through the New Horizons for Seniors Program, which officials said aims to play a pivotal role by creating opportunities for thousands of seniors across the nation. Locally, funds are being directed to the Social Kitchen at the Quinte West Public Library.
The program is designed for seniors to participate in cooking classes and promotes social engagement among vulnerable older residents, said officials.
“Through the New Horizons for Seniors Program, the Government of Canada is providing a wide range of opportunities for seniors in Quinte West to participate in meaningful activities where they can share knowledge, skills and experience to the benefit of others,” said Malette. “Seniors are important members of our community, and I am proud to support initiatives to create connections within our region.”
Elsewhere, the government program is also funding projects that support digital literacy initiatives, fraud prevention and awareness programs, and intergenerational mentoring efforts.
Government officials added these supports aim to build on additional measures to make life more affordable for older Canadians, such as increases under Old Age Security for those older than 75, expansions to the Guaranteed Income Supplement earnings exemption, the introduction of the Canadian Dental Care plan and improving access to affordable internet.
The soon-to-be released new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit should also provide further help for low- and modest-income households, including seniors, as cost of living continues to rise, said officials.
“The New Horizons for Seniors Program helps fund projects that keep seniors involved in their communities and create more opportunities for participation and inclusion,” echoed McLean, adding recently announced projects will help seniors stay active and connected in every part of the country.
Krista Richardson, programming and outreach librarian in Quinte West, also welcomed the recent investment by the federal government.
“We are proud of the success of our cooking programs and thrilled that the New Horizons for Senior’s grant has made it possible to offer the community amazing cultural programs, cooking classes and special events. We are grateful for the opportunity to create social connections and bring people together through these programs.”
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
