DURHAM: Ontario is committed to helping seniors stay healthy, safe and socially connected within their own communities. Many seniors face challenges accessing programs and services that support their safety, mental and physical health, and overall well-being. That is why the government is investing more than $77,000 to help seniors in Durham Region stay active and socially connected. Of the total funding, $25,000 is part of the Seniors Community Grant program, which is providing $3 million to support more than 260 projects to benefit seniors in communities across the province. More than $52,000 is being provided to the Whitby Seniors’ Activity Centre, as part of a $14.1 million investment to support more than 300 Seniors Active Living Centre programs in Ontario. Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility, and Lorne Coe, MPP for Whitby, were at the Whitby Seniors’ Activity Centre today to announce the funding. Through the Seniors Community Grant Program, Ontario is providing support for a Durham-wide public education and awareness campaign led by community volunteers and older adults that will challenge the myths and stereotypes that portray older adults as frail, out-of-touch, technologically illiterate, and no longer employable. Funding to The Whitby Seniors’ Activity Centre will support a variety of programming from creative arts to computers, fitness, language and music to help enrich seniors’ lives, and promote healthy and active aging. “I am inspired by the commitment and dedication of these community organizations that are making a positive difference in the lives of all seniors and their families in Durham Region,” said Minister Cho. “Bringing seniors together to take part in meaningful initiatives in their community will help them be active and socially connected, while also having a positive benefit on their overall well-being.” “These investments are great news for seniors and their families in the Durham Region,” said MPP Coe. “The government’s support will go a long way in helping to keep seniors in this community active and socially connected, which has tremendous health benefits. Seniors will also have an opportunity to take part in activities and build social connections that they may not otherwise be able to do without this support.” “Durham Region values the knowledge, talents, and many contributions that older adults make to our community. That’s why we developed the Age-Friendly Durham Strategy and Action plan.
It outlines support of active and healthy aging; responding to the needs and life experiences of older adults,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer of The Regional Municipality of Durham. “We appreciate the provincial support of this initiative. This funding will help older adults share their experiences and perspectives — challenging the myths and negatives stereotypes that persist about aging in our society.” Ontario remains committed to protecting what matters most to seniors and their families.