Lambton Public Health has received a substantial provincial grant to help create an age-friendly community.
Health Promotion Supervisor Anita Trusler said some of the $591,300 will go to front-line programming.
"We're currently working with three agencies like the Family Counselling Centre, to build the base of volunteers for the Tel-check program so that more clients can be served by that program that has volunteers calling to check on the health and safety of seniors living alone without family support," said Trusler. "This is an important first step. Funding will help us work with our community support agencies to enhance connections between the various health and social sectors. Priorities include an integrated community care model for Sarnia-Lambton to help and support seniors who are aging in place."
About 21 per cent of Sarnia's population is over the age of 65 and Trusler said that's expected to rise to 31 per cent by 2025.