Grants Improve Seniors' Health and Safety

Nova Scotia seniors are safer and able to live more comfortably and independently, thanks to provincial support.

Fifteen groups across the province are receiving senior safety grants this year. The grants support non-profit groups that educate and raise awareness of senior abuse, prevent crime and encourage the overall health and safety of Nova Scotia seniors.

"Nova Scotia's seniors have told us they want more options to stay in their homes longer," said Education Minister Ramona Jennex, on behalf of Seniors Minister Denise Peterson-Rafuse."By protecting Nova Scotia seniors from injury and harm, we are making life better for them and supporting their efforts to remain independent."

Grants are used to provide information or services directly to seniors in their homes, or through group presentations and workshops at other locations within the community. This includes one-on-one visits from safety co-ordinators, seminars with professional experts, and the production of various materials.

"Without this provincial grant, we wouldn't be able to offer the same level of support to our seniors," said Kings County Senior Safety Program Society treasurer Bill Poole. "This year's contribution will enable our Senior Safety Co-ordinator to reach an increasing number of Seniors that call Kings County home."

In order to qualify, programs must demonstrate financial or in-kind community support. The program also emphasizes better communication between seniors and the police.

"This funding allows the RCMP to continue to expand and enhance this modern and innovative-grass root service model throughout the province," said RCMP Superintendent Sylvie Bourassa-Muise. "The community and RCMP membership benefit from this mechanism that fosters open communication between seniors and police. It is a great preventative tool which helps police deliver a holistic response."

"Crime prevention happens at the community level," said Ross Landry, Minister of Justice. "Having police and community organizations work together is a powerful way to make life better for vulnerable seniors."

The 15 groups each receive up to $20,000, for a total of more than $288,000.

For more information and for a complete list of recipients, visit novascotia.ca/seniors/senior_Safety_Grant.asp