Hon. Stockwell Day Says Federal Program Helps Seniors Participate More Fully In Their Communities

March 07, 2008

PENTICTON, BRITISH COLUMBIA – The Hon. Stockwell Day, Member of Parliament for Okanagan-Coquihalla and Minister of Public Safety on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, and the Honourable Marjory LeBreton, Leader of the Government in the Senate and Secretary of State (Seniors), today congratulated South Okanagan Seniors Wellness Society on being selected to receive funding under the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP). This will ensure that seniors in Penticton will have the opportunity to participate and take an active leadership role within their communities.

Total funding of $25,000.00 is being provided for the project entitled “Learning in Retirement”.

“The Government of Canada is proud to support seniors in strengthening our communities and building our country,” said Stockwell Day. “These projects will encourage seniors to continue sharing their skills, wisdom and experience to benefit others.”

In Budget 2007, the Government of Canada announced an additional investment of $10 million per year for two new components of the NHSP, in order to raise awareness of elder abuse, and to provide capital assistance for upgrades to facilities and equipment used for existing seniors’ programs. Projects funded under these new components will be announced in the spring of 2008.

Sandra Dean, Executive Director for the South Okanagan Seniors Wellness Society says the Society is pleased to offer the Learning in Retirement Program in the Penticton Area. Dean said “Learning in Retirement fits well with our Society’s mission to create a healthy community through providing resources and opportunities for older adults.”