Support from government will mean more Nova Scotia seniors will live independently and safely in their homes and be active in their communities.
Fourteen non-profit groups providing direct service to seniors, as well as education and awareness of senior abuse and crime prevention programs, are receiving senior safety grants, totalling almost $280,000.
Also, 30 non-profit groups promoting seniors’ health, well-being and community participation will receive funding of almost $262,000 through the Age-Friendly Community Grant. Some of the projects supported through the grants include healthy-living workshops, regional community planning initiatives and life-long learning programs.
The Canadian Red Cross Society is receiving $20,000 toward the Halifax Regional Municipality’s Seniors’ Safety Program.
“The Red Cross is doing great work in the community through their Seniors’ Safety Program,” said Minister of Seniors Leo Glavine.
“Programs like this help create healthy, safe, inclusive and supportive communities for seniors by providing educational sessions and one-on-one service, including home visits and phone calls.”
The community-based program offers education sessions and referral services to seniors, and individual support around safety concerns.
Red Cross partners have seen first-hand the success the Seniors’ Safety Program has had in the community.
“They provide fantastic community-based presentations to diverse populations,” said Kerry Karsten, community relations co-ordinator with the Metropolitan Regional Housing Authority. “I have had the opportunity to work closely with the senior safety co-ordinator and, through collaboration, was able to put on a successful Wellness Day for over sixty seniors, including seniors living with Metro Housing.”
“Halifax Regional Municipality has a diversity of seniors in both urban and rural settings, each with specific health and safety needs and concerns,” said Ismael Aquino, Nova Scotia provincial director, Canadian Red Cross. “We continue to expand accessibility to the Seniors’ Safety program, such as creating materials in more languages.”
Source: Release