The federal government and the United Way of Canada have teamed up to help the most vulnerable seniors get through the pandemic.
The United Way of Northern BC has disbursed $171,000 to 37 non-profit agencies and charities in the region as part of the $9 million the federal government has provided the New Horizons For Seniors program to help seniors affected directly or indirectly by the COVID-19 crisis.
“At this time when we are being encouraged to stay home and physically distance, it has become increasingly evident that our seniors need support in this new situation,” said Trista Spencer, executive director of the United Way of Northern BC. “We are grateful to be able to assist through this partnership with the Government of Canada and truly hope that the funding will bring much needed relief at a precarious time.”
The program pays for food supplies, meal preparation and deliveries as well as personal transportation, outreach and resources to assist with seniors dealing with isolation that comes with being quarantined to limit the spread of the virus.
“While physical distancing is essential to protecting seniors from COVID-19, it risks isolating them from their community,” said Minister of Seniors Deb Schulte, in a prepared statement.
“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.”
In Prince George, the non-profit agencies received funding include: Carney Hill Neighbourhood Centre Society, Guru Nanak Langar & Garden Society, Hart Pioneer Centre Association, Le Cercle des Canadiens Français de Prince George, Prince George District Seniors Activity Centre Society, Prince George Native Friendship Centre, Salvation Army and YMCA of Northern BC.
Twelve groups in the city received food donations and personal protection equipment, including: Carefree Society, Carney Hill Neighbourhood Centre Society, Guru Nanak Langar & Garden Society, Learning Differences Centre, Northern John Howard Society, Phoenix Transition Society, Positive Living North, Prince George Brain Injured Group, Prince George Council of Seniors, Prince George Sexual Assault Centre, St. Patrick’s House Society, and Prince George Native Friendship Centre.
The complete list of northern B.C. agencies that received funding or food/PPE donations is at: https://www.unitedwaynbc.ca/covid19-funded-agencies/.
