The federal government’s popular New Horizons for Seniors Program is once again accepting applications to help fund community-based projects. The deadline for this round is July 29, 2016. Since 2004, this program has contributed to communities across Canada by funding projects led or inspired by seniors, motivating many to use their skills, wisdom and experience to benefit other people in their communities.
Organizations in numerous communities in Yorkton-Melville have benefitted from the New Horizons Program. In Lemburg, Watson, Veregin, Yorkton, Melville and other areas, monies received have gone toward social programs such as revitalizing a pool tournament and promoting interaction between seniors and youth over computer and cooking classes.
New Horizon funding has also provided new roofs, retrofitted an old school, replaced doors and windows, updated kitchens, and much more. (Note: owners of buildings must include in their application package adequate proof of building ownership.)
Eligible applicants can receive up to $25,000 per year in grant funding. Their application proposals must address one or more of the program’s five objectives:
• promoting volunteerism among seniors and other generations;
• engaging seniors in the community through the mentoring of others;
• expanding awareness of elder abuse, including financial abuse;
• supporting the social participation and inclusion of seniors; and
• providing capital assistance for new and existing community projects and/or programs for seniors.
Those eligible to apply include not-for-profit organizations, municipal governments, research organizations and institutes, educational institutions, school boards/school districts, band/tribal councils and other Aboriginal organizations, community-based coalitions, networks and for-profit organizations.
Every year, some organizations miss out on the opportunity to apply for this popular funding opportunity. Don’t miss this year. Your community will thank you!
For more details, funding priorities, general information and/or a complete application kit, I encourage you to visit http://www.esdc.gc.ca/eng/seniors/funding/index.shtml. You may also call: 1-800-277-9914 and select “0” to speak with an agent (TTY: 1-800- 255-4786).
