Agencies have little time to take advantage of a federal grant program that is aimed at benefitting seniors.
Mayor Rick Bonnett told councillors on May 27 about a “Seniors New Horizons” grant program that provides funding to community-based projects following five specific criteria:
- Promoting volunteerism among seniors and other generations.
- Engaging seniors through mentoring others.
- Expanding awareness of elder abuse.
- Supporting social participation and inclusion of seniors.
- Providing capital assistance for new and existing projects.
There is funding of $25,000 per year per community group but the deadline of July 4 is coming up fast, explained Bonnett. He feels groups such as Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) might be able to take advantage of it.
He said he had received the notice from the office of Blaine Calkins May 27 and was hoping community groups could know about it.
“We could certainly add it to our community contact list,” said Wes Amendt, director of community services.
“We’ve gotta get on it right away,” added Betty Quinlan, assistance CAO for the Town of Ponoka.