Wallaceburg Senior Citizens’ Club receives provincial boost

Ontario is investing $71,000 in two facilities in Wallaceburg and Thamesville to help seniors stay active, healthy, independent and socially connected in their own communities, MPP Monte McNaughton announced on Thursday.

Wallaceburg Senior Citizens’ Club will receive a $52,693 grant to cover the purchase of new kitchen appliances, exercise equipment and materials for the seniors’ choir. It will also cover a substantial portion of the clubs’ operating expenses.

Thamesville Happy Club will receive a $19,318 grant that will cover similar expenses that promote a community atmosphere among seniors.

“Seniors are an important part of our communities, in Wallaceburg, Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, and across the province,” said McNaughton in a media release.

“‘Seniors’ Active Living Centres provide a hub for seniors and their families to build positive connections and encourage physical activity. This funding helps them remain vital.”

About one in three Canadian seniors are at risk of becoming socially isolated.

That is why Ontario is investing in Wallaceburg and elsewhere – $14.1 million in total to support more than 300 Seniors’ Active Living Centre programs in communities across the Province.

“Supporting our seniors today is about investing now in the future of all of us. This funding will have a direct and positive impact on seniors across the province by giving them an opportunity to take part in programs which will help keep them active, socially connected, and healthy,” stated Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility.

The Wallaceburg grant represents an increase in funding of approximately 15 per cent.

“The Wallaceburg Senior Citizens’ Club is very happy to receive the continued support of the Province of Ontario in promoting seniors’ health and well-being here in our community,” stated Jill VanZelst, Coordinator of the Wallaceburg club.

“What we provide has both physical and social components which are equally necessary for a life of fulfillment.”

Frank Trainor, Treasurer of the Thamesville Happy Club, added “This money helps to keep seniors in our community active and healthy. We truly appreciate this funding from the Province of Ontario.”

Ontario remains committed to protecting what matters most to seniors and their families.

Seniors Active Living centre programs are community-based and promote wellness and social interaction. They support approximately 100,000 people across the province.

The senior population in Ontario is the fasted growing age group. By 2023 there will be 3 million Ontarians over the age of 65.

Active aging brings with it important and positive health benefits such as keeping seniors in their homes and out of hospitals and long-term care facilities.

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