Retired teachers grant provides accessible books for local seniors

Thanks to a $4,000 grant from District 3 Algoma of RTOERO (Retired Teachers of Ontario), local seniors at the Ontario Finnish Rest Home will now have plenty of new and accessible reading materials. 

This funding is part of RTOERO's annual project – Service to Others (PSTO). Districts apply for individual projects that support a local, national or international program.

RTOERO funds will purchase a collection of 35 audio and 36 large-print books, which will move from one building to another, giving all 375 residents of the Ontario Finnish Rest Home a chance to enjoy them.  

"Reading exercises your mind, keeps you current, and takes you on new adventures," said Kathryn Greening, president of District 3 Algoma RTOERO, in a news release issued today. "This donation gives the residents ready access to more material. Beyond the pleasure of reading, people at the home will have more opportunities for social interaction, in going to the library more and having conversations about their latest reads." 

For 2020, RTOERO funded 20 projects for a total of $77,000. These projects range from a nutrition program to a youth camp to reducing barriers for education in Cameroon. 

RTOERO has donated $1.6 million to more than 500 programs and projects since the inception of PSTO 20 years ago.

RTOERO is the largest national provider of non-profit group health benefits for education retirees. District 3 Algoma includes almost 1,300 members, with most in the area from Sault Ste. Marie to Blind River, and north to Elliot Lake. 

"RTOERO members care about their communities and serve them every day," said Rich Prophet, chair of the board at RTOERO. "The PSTO grant program is another way we can give back."