Hon. Alice Wong, P.C.

Ottawa, Ontario, May 8, 2012—The Government of Canada is seeking applications for projects to help seniors lead and participate in social activities and contribute to their communities.

This call for proposals under the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) was launched today by the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, and the Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors).

“Our government is proud to support organizations that are dedicated to improving the lives of seniors,” said Minister Finley. “Through initiatives such as the NHSP, we help seniors stay active and encourage them to continue to participate in the social and economic life of Canada.”

“The New Horizons for Seniors Program helps seniors put their experience to use through volunteerism and mentorship,” added Minister of State Wong. “By investing in these community projects, our government is improving both the quality of life for Canadian seniors and their neighbourhoods.”

NHSP community-based project funding enables seniors to share their knowledge, skills and experiences with others and helps communities increase their capacity to address local issues. Eligible recipients can receive up to $25,000 in grant funding per year.

In 2011, the Government of Canada strengthened direct support to seniors by increasing the annual NHSP budget to $45 million. Through Economic Action Plan 2012, the Government is taking the necessary steps to ensure that Canada’s social programs remain sustainable now and into the future.

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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.

For further information (media only):

Marian Ngo
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482

Media Relations Office
Human Resources and
Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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Robert Lynch
Director of Communications
Office of Minister of State (Seniors), Alice Wong
613-790-0219

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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.

Community-based projects must address one or more of the program’s five objectives: promoting volunteerism, mentoring, elder abuse awareness, social participation and providing capital assistance.

The call will close on June 29, 2012, for all of Canada, except Quebec. The Quebec call will close on September 14, 2012, to coincide with a provincial call for proposals.

Since its beginning, the Program has funded more than 10 400 projects in hundreds of communities across Canada. The NHSP recently approved 1 923 community-based projects worth over $35.6 million in funding through the 2010–2011 call for proposals.

For more information on the NHSP call for proposals, please visit www.hrsdc.gc.ca/seniors.

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