Seniors Response Fund

To help seniors across the country, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on March 29, 2020 that the federal government will be investing $9 million across Canada to support vulnerable seniors. These funds, distributed by local United Ways, will support agencies with the 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. This funding will support agencies serving those who are 55+ in all regions of Canada, including rural and remote communities who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

United Way of Durham Region received $134,689.00 through the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP), allocated by Employment Social Development Canada and 100% of these funds are flowing through to registered charitable organizations that serve the Durham region.

The NHSP provides grants and contributions for projects that help improve the well-being of seniors and foster their social inclusion. To provide more support for seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada announced flexibility for organizations to use funding received through the NHSP community-based stream to provide immediate and essential service to seniors impacted by COVID-19

In Durham Region, agencies are already hard at work providing extra support for vulnerable seniors and the following organizations have been designated to receive funds:

About the New Horizons for Seniors Program

The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) supports the Government of Canada’s overarching social goals to enhance the quality of life, and promote the full participation of individuals, including seniors, in all aspects of Canadian society. During COVID-19, and the requirement for social-distancing and self-isolation, these funds become even more important to ensure that vulnerable seniors have the supports they need for their well-being.