Hon. Alice Wong, P.C.

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA–(Marketwire – April 16, 2012) – Seniors across Canada can look forward to new services and activities in their communities through the New Horizons for Seniors Program. The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), made the announcement today.

“Our government recognizes the diversity of skills, knowledge and experience that seniors contribute to our society and economy,” said Minister of State Wong. “Through initiatives such as the New Horizons for Seniors Program, we are helping to ensure that seniors maintain a high quality of life and continue as active, participating members of their communities.”

The announcement was made at the Robert Lee YMCA of Greater-Vancouver, which will receive $24,912 for its project to promote social participation and inclusion of seniors by providing a health and fitness program.

Since its beginning, the New Horizons for Seniors Program has funded more than 10,400 projects in hundreds of communities across Canada. This year, the Government of Canada will provide more than $35.6 million in funding for almost 2,000 community projects.

This news release is available in alternative formats on request.

BACKGROUNDER

New Horizons for Seniors Program

The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) is a federal grants and contributions program that supports projects led or inspired by seniors who make a difference in the lives of others and their communities. Through the NHSP, the Government of Canada encourages seniors to share their knowledge, skills and experiences to the benefit of others.

The 2011-12 community-based projects call for proposals ran from June 20 to September 16, 2011. Projects can receive up to $25,000 in funding and must address one or more of the program’s five objectives: volunteering, mentoring, expanding awareness of elder abuse, social participation, and capital assistance.

Since its beginning, the Program has funded more than 10,400 projects in hundreds of communities across Canada.

The next NHSP call for proposals is expected to launch in spring 2012. For more information on the NHSP, please visit www.hrsdc.gc.ca/seniors.

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