United Way logo (Photo by Mark Brown/Blackburn News)United Way logo (Photo by Mark Brown/Blackburn News)
Sarnia

United Way distributes federal horizons funding for seniors

The federal government is providing help to Sarnia-Lambton seniors under its New Horizons Program.

The United Way of Sarnia-Lambton has distributed nearly $50,000 in total funding to six agencies.

The Family Counselling Centre received $16,000 to hire a worker to help support increased scheduling and Tel-Check calls as well as promotional materials for isolated seniors.

A total of $15,000 will be used to provide food, hygiene and cleaning products to vulnerable clients at the North Lambton Community Health Centre. That includes isolated seniors and those living with mental health and addictions.

The Lambton Mental Wellness Centre will use $1,261 to purchase iPads to lend to their senior members (55+) so they can connect to their virtual support groups. They will be able to help three urban and one rural member during the pandemic.

St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank and Help Centre got $9,886 to assist with rent and utilities, cleaning supplies and transportation for seniors travelling to appointments outside the city of Sarnia.

And, the YMCA's Sarnia and Petrolia sites each benefitted from $3,192 to help urban and rural seniors maintain their fitness levels and boost their mental health. They'll be given fitness bands, instructions and a potted plant. Additional telephone call supports are also being provided.

United Way of Sarnia-Lambton Executive Director Dave Brown said, “We are pleased that the federal government has confidence in United Way’s across Canada and our ability to evaluate and effectively meet the needs of Lambton County’s most vulnerable. The United Way is committed to funding programs and services that have measurable and impactful results.”

Minister of Seniors Deb Schulte said physical distancing can lead to the isolation of seniors.

"That is why the Government of Canada is proud to work with United Way Canada to help support the needs of seniors during this difficult time. By using local expertise, this funding will help provide support tailored to the unique, local needs of seniors across the country. As we work together to flatten the curve and slow the spread of the virus, the government is supporting Canadians every step of the way."

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