The College of New Caledonia is partnering with local and regional groups on a project to increase social inclusion for seniors in Mackenzie.
The $2 million, five-year project is being funded by federal government's New Horizons for Seniors Program.
“Loneliness is a serious issue that can have implications on seniors’ health and quality of life,” Minister of Seniors Deb Schulte said in a press release. “Our government will continue to move forward to address this challenge. We are pleased to support New Horizons for Seniors Program initiatives like the College of New Caledonia’s ‘Senior Inclusion Solutions for Northern Communities’ in Mackenzie, B.C., which will partner with local organizations to better connect seniors and will have a positive impact on their lives.”
When Mackenzie was incorporated in 1966, it was designed with a young workforce in mind and little infrastructure to support an aging population, a statement issued by the College of New Caledonia said. According to 2016 Statistics Canada data, seniors now make up about one-third of the population of the hard-hit forestry town.
Mackenzie Mayor Joan Atkinson said the program will help fill a gap in resources for older residents.
“Mackenzie is experiencing steady growth in our senior population and this project will be the catalyst to ensuring seniors are an engaged, empowered demographic in our community," Atkinson said in a press release. "The College of New Caledonia’s Mackenzie campus continues to play a vital role in the health and wellness of all of our community members and I am thrilled to see this much needed project come to fruition.”
Some of the initiatives planned include a mentorship program linking trades student with seniors in the community. The campus' training kitchen will offer cooking lessons for seniors, and an opportunity for seniors to share their knowledge.
The Lunch and Learn series for seniors will offer information about subjects including computer and cell phone use, gardening and trades.
The college will offer tuition waivers for seniors who want to take courses through the college. Secondary school students in Mackenzie will be able to participate in programs, and earn volunteer hours required for graduation.
“The... project strives for lasting improvements providing seniors the ability to feel more integrated in the community including social, recreational, artisan, and entrepreneurial ventures,” CNC regional principal Shannon Bezo said in a press release. “CNC is proud collaborative on this project benefitting seniors by providing education and employment opportunities through our Trades Centre.”
The College of New Caledonia will work primarily with the Mackenzie Autumn Lodge Society, Kimta Transportation Society and the Community Development Institute (CDI) of UNBC on the projects. Other partners include the Mackenzie Seniors group, the District of Mackenzie, Northern Health, Mackenzie Counselling, WorkBC and Community Futures of Fraser Fort George.
“Being able to be a key partner in the New Horizons for Seniors Program project with CNC strongly assists the Autumn Lodge Society in fulfilling the mandate to enable seniors in the area to interact and work with others through activities that will enhance their health and well-being,” Autumn Lodge Society president Stephanie Killam said.
