Seniors groups in Okanagan receive $86k for programming

Stephen Fuhr, MP for Kelowna-Lake Country has announced funding for five Okanagan-based organizations under the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program(NHSP).

NHSP promotes seniors getting involved in their communities.

The funding is aimed to help seniors engage in an active social life, and feel valued in the community by having opportunities to share their knowledge, skills and experience with others.

“These grassroots projects are community-driven and promote social interaction, positive aging and seniors’ well-being," said Jean-Yves Duclos, minister of Families, Children and Social Development Canada.

"They reach out to seniors and encourage them to pursue active lifestyles, expand their social network and play a leading role in activities that inspire goodwill, sharing and fellowship among community members."

NHSP is giving a total of $86,356 to the Okanagan Chinese Canadian Association, the Kelowna Visual and Performing Arts Centre Society, the Royal Canadian Legion Oyama Branch 189, the Okanagan Men's Sheds Association and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 26 Kelowna.

“I thank those organizations and their volunteers who recognize the valuable contribution our seniors make by ensuring our seniors stay involved and active in our communities," said Fuhr.

All the funding will go to supporting activities for seniors including — computer workshops, planning and coordinating dances to perform at festivals, renovations to improve access to meetings, social functions, shuffleboard and darts, as well as fundraising activities, social gatherings and woodworking activities.

The Government of Canada is providing $35 million in NHSP funding for more than 1,880 community-based projects.

While Saskatchewan has the highest proportion of people over 85 years, many municipalities in B.C. have more people aged 85 and older than the national average.