Grants will help seniors socialize, grieve

The GTA Seniors Mutual Support Association in Stouffville is receiving a grant to help bring seniors together.

The money comes from the provincial government’s Seniors Community Grant Program, which will deliver $5 million to municipalities and local organizations for programs that support projects focused on volunteerism, learning, financial awareness, social inclusion, elder abuse prevention, mental well-being and physical activity.

The GTA Seniors Mutual Support Association is a non-profit organization that specializes in recreation and education activities for older adults in Chinese community. It will receive $25,000 for a project that will encourage 500 isolated seniors to take part in a variety of social activities, including online games, storytelling, blind dating chats and monthly birthday celebrations.

Bereaved Families of York Region will receive $25,000 to provide grief healing support groups for seniors, with a focus on the impact of grief on mental health, relationships and isolation.

The provincial government will invest up to $6 million in the grant program for the 2022-23 program cycle. Applications will be accepted from March 1 through April 28. If you have questions about the program, email [email protected].

“After several months of increased social isolation, we have seen a surge in demand for targeted and reliable access to programs and services that address the unique needs of Ontario’s seniors,” says Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Michael Tibollo. “With this investment, our government is taking real action to further empower seniors in their own communities and provide them with high-quality supports that contribute to their physical, mental, and social well-being.”

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