YMCA and City receive over $40,000 for seniors programs

NEWS RELEASE
MP TERRY SHEEHAN
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As a rapidly increasing demographic, Seniors in Canada are in need of support for varying requirements. In recognizing this need, the Government of Canada developed a funding stream for organizations that want to help seniors and make a difference in the lives of others and in their communities.   

Through the Employment and Social Development Canada department, the New Horizons for Seniors Program community projects must be led or inspired by seniors and address one or more of the following five program objectives:

• promoting volunteerism among seniors and other generations;
• engaging seniors in the community through the mentoring of others;
• expanding awareness of elder abuse, including financial abuse;
• supporting the social participation and inclusion of seniors; and
• providing capital assistance for new and existing community projects and/or programs for seniors.

“I’m really proud of our local groups for creating programs and spaces for our seniors to thrive and be supported. One of the suggestions I heard repeated at the National Seniors Strategy Townhall meeting we held in the Sault this winter, was the real need for these kinds of programs. These investments in programming from the federal government enable organizations to put their programs into place.”

--Terry Sheehan, MP for the Riding of Sault Ste. Marie

On behalf of The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, Terry Sheehan announces funding for local programs: The Sault Ste. Marie YMCA is receiving $18,666 for Improved Programming and Equipment for Seniors.

“Due to this funding we were able to purchase much needed equipment for Aquatic classes and more equipment to add to existing classes as well. Our goal with this equipment to encourage our Senior community to stay active and challenge themselves.”

--Erica Tucker, Supervisor of Adult Programs and Marketing, Sault Ste. Marie YMCA

The City of Sault Ste. Marie is receiving $24,024 for the program: Older Adults “Moving” Forward- An Active & Inclusive Community Hub.

"We are very excited to have received the funding to enhance the services for seniors in our community.  The New Horizons grant will support the purchase of equipment and provide funding for instructors which will increase the opportunities for seniors to participate in a range of inclusive active living and social programs."

--Virginia McLeod, Manager, Recreation and Culture, City of Sault Ste. Marie

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