Grants Support Seniors in Cumberland County

Funding was announced today, July 21, for three organizations in Cumberland County that support seniors' safety and create opportunities for seniors to be more engaged and included in their communities.

MLA Terry Farrell, on behalf of Leo Glavine, Minister of Seniors, announced grants to the Cumberland County Senior Safety Society, Burning Bush Ministries, and the Cumberland County YMCA.

"It is important that our communities represent an inclusive, safe and accessible environment for older adults," said Mr. Farrell. "We are investing in programs that ensure our seniors have the opportunity to thrive."

The Senior Society's $20,000 grant comes from the Senior Safety Grant program. It supports direct services such as home visits, group presentations and educational workshops on a variety of topics related to seniors' safety in their home and community.

"Our Seniors Safety Program enables us to work proactively about safety concerns and education for our older population," said Patricia Harrington, chair of the Cumberland County Senior Safety Association. "The education sessions provide a forum for people to get together, support one another and have fun while learning about issues that promote safety and where they can get help."

The $10,000 grants to Burning Bush and the YMCA are from the Age-Friendly Community Grant program.

Burning Bush will use the funding to connect seniors and youth in a community-based initiative to create a Confederation 150 commemorative catalogue. The YMCA grant will enhance its Full of Life wellness program which focuses on healthy lifestyles, chronic disease self-management and social well-being.

Support from government helps these inclusive programs improve seniors' health and safety and enables them to participate more fully in their communities.