Help available for Niagara seniors

On Sunday March 29, 2020 the Prime Minister announced funding to UWC to support vulnerable seniors at risk due to the COVID-19 Crisis. This funding is intended to support community agencies’ supports for isolated seniors in all parts of Canada including rural and remote communities.

April 1, 2020
This announcement is very exciting for us and the community as well – it has caused a flurry of activity in the past few days – phone calls and emails, from agencies and many individuals wanting to know more about the fund, and how they can access the money. We have just received some more information which will be helpful for you.

Funding in the amount of $9M will be distributed across the country via United Way Centraide Canada (UWCC). Funding is coming from the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program. This funding is the first step the Government is taking to put in place a program of supports for vulnerable Canadians and charitable sector organizations.

The funding is relatively flexible with the caveat that it must go towards serving those who are 55+ and must reach all regions of Canada, including rural and remote communities who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The fund is intended to support delivery of a range of community services including meeting basic needs like food, hot meals and personal care items, outreach and social support through check-ins with seniors, transportation and other services.

Funds from the Federal Government Response Fund are distributed across Canada, based upon senior population statistics (StatsCan). Based on senior population statistics for Niagara region, United Way Niagara will receive $123,039.

IF YOU REQUIRE ASSISTANCE (or know someone who does): If you are specifically a senior, or know of a senior, that is in financial need experiencing challenges getting groceries, medication, hygiene products, driving to essential medical appointments, obtaining income support or feeling lonely please contact the Niagara Gatekeepers Line at 905-684-0968. All other inquiries, please call 2-1-1 to find the resources available. You can also search the online database here.

These emergency funds are intended to help community service providers address the needs of vulnerable seniors dealing with the impact of COVID-19 isolation measures. This means that agencies you are already working with can help serve you better.

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