File photo courtesy © CanStockPhoto.com/Leaf)File photo courtesy © CanStockPhoto.com/Leaf)
Sarnia

Seniors group says loss of funding 'serious blow'

The Lambton Seniors Association is appealing to the public for funding to continue its Handyman/Woman program.

Yearly funding of $37,000 from the Sarnia-Lambton United Way has been eliminated effective March 31.

The seniors association says they were unable to come to terms with the United Way on the implementation of a "means test" for the program that provides help for seniors with home projects like installing safety aids and painting.

After being funded for 12 years, the association says the loss of revenue is a serious blow to the seniors of Sarnia-Lambton.

Association Chair Loretta Hodgin said the program's mandate has been to help retirees 55 years or older, regardless of financial status.

"The big thing is that it helps our senior population stay where they are instead of having to move or whatever," said Hodgin. "It helps that they can have these little things fixed in their home."

Hodgin said the Handyman/Woman program has been in place for 20 years, and last year alone helped seniors with over 10,000 jobs.

Anyone who can help with funding is asked to call the Lambton Seniors Association at 519-339-8866 or email lambtonseniors1@gmail.com.

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