Seniors in Conne River and Glenwood-Appleton to Benefit from Age-Friendly Grants

The Williams Government is continuing its commitment to seniors throughout the province with the awarding of two Age-Friendly Newfoundland and Labrador Grants in Conne River and Glenwood-Appleton. The grants program is designed to benefit incorporated municipalities, Inuit community governments, reserves and seniors' organizations.

"We are committed to furthering the Provincial Healthy Aging Framework, and the grants are a key piece of that commitment," said the Honourable Jerome Kennedy, Minister of Health and Community Services and Minister Responsible for Aging and Seniors. "Through our total investment of $200,000 in the grants program we are enabling communities and seniors organizations throughout the province to continue to make our seniors feel included and valued."

The Miawpukek First Nation Reserve in Conne River has been awarded $10,000 to further develop a plan to ensure the creation of an age-friendly community and develop programs and activities designed to engage seniors in the community.

"I am so pleased that Miawpukek First Nation will engage their elder population in active consultation to obtain feedback on such issues as housing, outdoor spaces, buildings, transportation and communication," said Fortune Bay - Cape La Hune MHA Tracey Perry. "Along with the Band Council, I look forward to seeing more elders in advisory roles with the Miawpukek First Nation."

The Glenwood-Appleton New Horizons 50+ Club received $1,000 to increase social participation of seniors in the area through information sessions, inter-generational activities and community dinners.

"This grant will certainly be an asset to the Glenwood-Appleton community," said the Honourable Kevin O'Brien, Gander MHA. "It is very important that our seniors feel included and for them to have an active role in the community."

The Age-Friendly Newfoundland and Labrador Grants are a key component of the Provincial Healthy Aging Policy Framework, through which the Provincial Government invested an additional $3.5 million in the 2009-10 fiscal year toward improving the wellness of residents.

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2010 05 20                                                  11:50 a.m.