Ontario Celebrates Seniors Community Grants Recipients
Funding helping connect older adults to programs that help them stay active and socially connected
July 3, 2024
Seniors and Accessibility
Peterborough — The Ontario government is investing up to $6 million through the Seniors Community Grant Program to support 282 community projects that help seniors and older adults stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected, close to home.
“The Seniors Community Grants Program is a great example of how our government is working for local communities,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “We are pleased to provide funding for so many programs that bring older people together to avoid being socially isolated, learn new skills, get fit, enjoy group activities and stay connected to their neighbours and friends.”
Up to $25,000 per project is invested in local programs, services and events to provide seniors with opportunities for greater social inclusion, volunteerism and community engagement. The Seniors Community Grants Program is a unique Ontario government grant designed to reduce social isolation, fight ageism and create positive connections.
Seniors need to connect with the community and stay fit, healthy, and active,’’ said MPP Dave Smith. “By investing in Seniors programs, we will be helping more adults, get the programs and services they need to live healthy, independent lives.” added MPP Smith.
Seniors Community Grants projects receiving funding in Peterborough this year include:
The Alzheimer Society of Peterborough Kawartha Lakes Northumberland and Haliburton will be receiving up to $23,209 to provide rural seniors living with dementia and their caregivers a series of ‘night out’ events to support socialization, reduce stigma and build a more dementia-friendly community.
“I want to extend our gratitude to the Ontario Government for selecting the Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland, & Haliburton as a recipient of the Senior Communities Grant. This generous funding will significantly enhance our ability to support seniors living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, as well as their families and care partners. With this grant, we can expand our services, provide essential resources, and foster a
more inclusive and understanding community for our aging population. Your commitment to improving the lives of seniors in Ontario is deeply appreciated, and we are honoured to partner with you in this vital mission. Thank you for your support and dedication to the well-being of our senior citizens.” Said Jen Johnstone, Executive Director Alzheimer Society Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland, & Haliburton.
Age-friendly Peterborough will be receiving up to $25,000 to transform the way seniors’ age in place by providing customized health, fitness, social, educational, and recreational workshops offered at a number of City apartments primarily occupied by older adults.
“The proportion of older adults 65 and better increased 16% in the Peterborough region from 2016 to 2021 and that number will continue to grow”, says Jayne Culbert, Age-friendly Coordinator, “25% of the residents who live in the greater Peterborough area are seniors and, in some townships, it is over 30%. This is significant as the national and provincial average is 19%. Receiving funding from the Ontario Government helps organizations to support our local older population through innovative projects.”
Quick Facts
- See the full list of 2024-25 Seniors Community Grants.
- Since 2018, Ontario has invested in over 1700 Seniors Community Grants.
- See the full list of Seniors Active Living Centres.
- The number of seniors aged 65 and over is projected to increase significantly, from 2.8 million or 18.4 per cent of population in 2022, to 4.4 million, or 20.3 per cent by 2046.
Additional Resources
Related Topics
Home and Community
Information for families on major life events and care options, including marriage, births and child care. Also includes planning resources for municipalities. Learn more