With the rising population of seniors in Canada, the federal government has announced funding for four seniors programs in the Cambridge area.
As a part of the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) the federal government looks to address the growing needs of one of the largest populations in Canada. Minister of Seniors, Kamal Khera, and MP for Cambridge, Bryan May, announced an investment of $73,795 to fund the community-based projects.
““This important announcement will allow seniors in Cambridge to participate in meaningful activities that nurture their personal growth and foster community prosperity,” said Khera. “Through the New Horizons for Seniors Program, our government not only encourages seniors to stay active and engaged in their communities, but also increases social participation and inclusion.”
The federal officials made their announcement at the Ontario Muslim Academy at 82 Beverly St. and is one of the recipients of this grant. The Muslim academy holds many senior programs and activities throughout the year.
Imran Chhapra, religious leader and director of the Ontario Muslim Academy, thinks this new funding will be able to help with a lot of the house calls they make during the winter months.
“Mobility is tough for a lot of our members with the snow,” said Chhapra. “We go to their homes and provide them with meals and some socialization.”
The academy also gives seniors a place to gather, pray and eat meals together.
During the pandemic, a lot of seniors were alone, said Nyaz Uddin Achmed, a senior from the academy. When they get together like this, they can be among their friends and family and focus on what matters, he said.
“It is important to have facilities like this one, because we can come together, worship and not be alone,” said Achmed. “We are grateful to our Muslim leaders and the Canadian government for providing this for our community.”
The senior population is the fastest growing age-group in Canada. By 2030, the number of seniors is expected to reach 9.4 million, representing close to one quarter of Canada’s population.
May and Khera said the government has learned from the pandemic and with this and similar programs are ensuring that seniors are able to age with dignity and help lift them out of poverty.
“We have lifted hundreds of thousands of seniors out of poverty and one of the most important things is to help them stay at home in a comfortable setting,” said Khera. “This is key to ensuring they have the quality of life they so truly deserve.”
