Seniors-related programs get new funding

About 20 per cent of seniors in the Southern Interior live in poverty or isolation and are at greater risk of poor health outcomes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With that and other vulnerable populations in mind, the United Way launched the COVID-19 Relief Fund in early April. With the influx of federal funding through the New Horizons for Seniors Program, United Way was able to invest over $173,000 that will directly impact seniors and make sure they have what they need to stay healthy and connected.

“It is our collective responsibility to come together to support our neighbours who may require support; and this is even more important during a time of crisis where the impact of vulnerabilities are heightened and deepened,” said Kahir Lalji, Executive Director of United Way SIBC. “We are proud to partner with the Government of Canada to support seniors through our community based partners in the Southern Interior of British Columbia.”

Lalji added, “Loneliness, isolation, food insecurity, access to medication and essential non-medical program adjustments are some of the examples these investments will support.”

“While physical distancing is essential to protecting seniors from COVID-19, it risks isolating them from their community,” said Deb Schulte, Minister of Seniors. “That is why the Government of Canada is proud to work with United Way Canada to help support the needs of seniors during this difficult time. By using local expertise, this funding will help provide support tailored to the unique, local needs of seniors across the country. As we work together to flatten the curve and slow the spread of the virus, the government is supporting Canadians every step of the way.”

The following local charities and programs received grants as part of our COVID-19 Relief Fund:

BrainTrust Canada
CMHA – Kelowna
CMHA – South Okanagan Similkameen
CMHA – Vernon
Community Connections (Revelstoke) Society
Community Dental Access Centre
Community Recreational Initiatives Society
Connect Counselling & Therapy Society
Desert Sun Counselling & Resource Centre Society
Enderby & District Community Resource Centre
Good Food Box North Okanagan
Independent Living Vernon
Kelowna Community Resources Society
Kelowna Gospel Mission Dental Clinic