Government of Canada provides funding for 34 New Horizons for Seniors projects in British Columbia

VICTORIA—Thirty-four seniors projects in British Columbia will receive a total $651,334 in federal funding through the New Horizons for Seniors Program. Ken Dryden, Minister of Social Development Canada and Tony Ianno, Minister of State for Families and Caregivers, announced the funding. "These New Horizons projects announced today will play an important role in supporting the inclusion and participation of seniors right across BC and will make our communities better places for everyone — young and old," said David L. Emerson, Minister of Industry and co-senior Minister for British Columbia.

"The Government of Canada is committed to strengthening and building inclusive communities that promote the active living, empowerment and dignity of seniors," said Minister Dryden. "These projects will enable seniors to share their skills, experience and wisdom with others in their community."

"New Horizons for Seniors has proven to be extremely valuable in promoting community activities by and in support of seniors," said Tony Ianno, Minister of State (Families and Caregivers). "Increased funding for New Horizons for Seniors in the recent budget reinforces our commitment to ensuring a high quality of life for all seniors."

The New Horizons for Seniors program provides grants to support a range of community-based projects across Canada that enable seniors to participate in social activities, pursue an active life and contribute to their communities.

Projects support broad national objectives and regional priorities. They are inspired, implemented and led by seniors in local communities. Priorities are set by those who are engaged in seniors' issues in each province and territory. Members of the review committee are in the best position to understand the needs of their communities and to know which projects they will benefit from.

Review committees, which include people active in senior's issues who are closely connected to their communities, review and recommend projects for funding. The priorities set by the British Columbia Review Committee for this round of funding are:

1. Intergenerational

   Projects for seniors transferring their experience, skills, values, resources, wisdom, and encouragement to younger generations. Activities would facilitate meaningful learning and social experiences that employ the significant skills and experience seniors offer.

2. Seniors at Risk of Isolation

   Projects that address the risk and occurrence of social isolation experienced by seniors.

3. Aboriginal

   Projects that strengthen the capacity of Aboriginal communities to reach out to their Elders and use their skills, experience and wisdom to enrich community life.

4. Peer Support/Networking

   Projects that build capacity through peer support networks aimed at fostering increased community engagement for seniors. These networks would allow seniors to transfer vital skills amongst their own peer groups.

5. Lifelong Learning

   Projects that offer lifelong learning and engagement opportunities that stimulate intellectual and emotional attachment among seniors.

6. Community

   Projects that harness the energy and enthusiasm of seniors, in concert with other community members, in local initiatives that contribute to social, cultural, economic or environmental development in their community.

Funding for these projects was provided for in the 2005 federal budget. In response to an overwhelming interest in the program, the Government of Canada announced an increase in funding to the New Horizons for Seniors program in the 2005 budget. The overall program budget will be increased to $15 million in 2005-06 and will reach $25 million by 2007-08.

These projects have been reviewed to ensure compliance with the Department's administration of its grant and contribution programs and are subject to review under the Financial Administration Act.

For more information on the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors program, visit www.sdc.gc.ca. The next Call for Applications will open in June 2005.

A complete list of approved projects for British Columbia is included in the attached backgrounder.

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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.

For more information:

Mary Jane MacLennan
Program Services Director
BC/Yukon Region
Social Development Canada
(250) 363-8280

Sarah Bain
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Social Development
(613) 941-0766

Media Relations
Social Development Canada
(613) 941-1110

BACKGROUNDER