September 30, 2010

OTTAWA, ONTARIO - Seniors living in Northern Alberta can anticipate new opportunities to participate in and contribute to their communities thanks to Government of Canada funding for four local projects.

Brian Jean, Member of Parliament for Fort McMurray – Athabasca, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, and the Honourable Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State (Seniors).

“The Government of Canada is committed to improving the lives of seniors, and is proud to support local organizations with the same goal,” said Mr. Jean. “These projects will encourage seniors to contribute their skills, knowledge and experience for the benefit of the entire community.”

“Today’s seniors know the importance of being active and staying involved in their communities,” said Minister Finley. “The New Horizons for Seniors Program is just one example of how we are helping seniors make a positive difference in their own lives and in those of the people around them.”

Four local organizations will receive a total of $77,579 in funding through the Community Participation and Leadership component of the New Horizons for Seniors Program.  Their projects encourage seniors to continue to play an important role in their communities by helping those in need, providing leadership, and sharing their knowledge and skills with others.

The organizations and their projects are as follows: 

• Faust Silver & Gold, Helping Seniors and Youth
• Janvier Dene Wood Buffalo Community Association, Cultural Connections
• Lac La Biche Heritage Society, Computer Training For Seniors Leading to a Buddy System
• Sucker Creek Elders Society, Arcadia Traditions - Our Past, Our Present, Your Future

Through Budget 2010, the Government invested an additional $5 million per year in the Program, bringing this year’s funding to $40 million. This additional funding will support projects that encourage seniors to volunteer and mentor other generations, as well as initiatives that aim to increase awareness of financial abuse.

The New Horizons for Seniors Program helps to ensure that seniors are able to benefit from and contribute to the quality of life in their communities through their social participation and active living. Since its beginning, the Program has funded over 7,000 projects in hundreds of communities across Canada. Last year alone, more than 100,000 seniors in over 500 communities throughout the country were involved in projects funded by the Program.

For more information about the Program, please visit www.hrsdc.gc.ca/seniors.