Photo supplied by the office of MPP Billy Denault
The Ontario government is putting money into eight initiatives across Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke through its Seniors Community Grant program, aimed at helping older adults stay active, healthy and socially engaged.
Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP Billy Denault shared the news of the funding on July 16, stating that these grants will open up new ways for seniors to connect with their communities while lessening social isolation.
These projects are part of over 320 initiatives receiving support throughout Ontario via the provincial program, which offers grants up to $25,000 for local services, activities and events tailored for seniors.
Several municipalities in the riding received the full $25,000 grant.
The Township of Greater Madawaska plans to use its funding to enhance programming at its Seniors Active Living Centre by adding swimming sessions, Coffee and Cards gatherings and beginner pickleball for those aged 55 and above. The township anticipates that this expanded programming will benefit around 120 seniors between June 2026 and March 2027.
The Township of Laurentian Valley will also receive $25,000 to kick off the Festival Hall Seniors Theatre Program. Here, older adults will engage in weekly theatre workshops where they’ll create performances inspired by life in the Ottawa Valley and share their personal stories through art.
Hospice Renfrew has been awarded $25,000 as well to enhance support for residents facing life-limiting illnesses through its Volunteer Visiting Program. This program provides companionship, emotional backing and practical help for individuals receiving palliative care at home.
With its $25,000 grant, the Town of Deep River plans to set up bus trips, dances and live shows specifically for seniors and veterans. The goal is to combat social isolation while promoting community involvement.
Other supported projects include a $23,800 grant awarded to the Township of South Algonquin for a monthly dinner series catering to seniors that features meals alongside wellness programs and educational sessions such as fraud prevention tips.
The Township of Brudenell, Lyndoch and Raglan secured $9,940 to launch a senior-led monthly lunch initiative in Palmer Rapids that will provide meals along with educational talks and chances for social interaction.
The Town of Petawawa received $14,760 designated for its 55+ Active Aging Initiative. This initiative aims to offer wellness workshops, recreation options, peer support services, technology training and various activities geared towards older adults as well as senior veterans.
Denault remarked that this funding is vital in helping seniors maintain healthy and fulfilling lives while fostering stronger community ties throughout the riding.
Provincewide this year, the Ontario government is investing up to $7 million through the Seniors Community Grant program. Since 2018 alone, it claims over $40 million has been allocated towards more than 2,100 projects focused on reducing social isolation while encouraging volunteerism and promoting healthy aging.
(Steve Berard)
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