News release
For immediate release

Saanich, BC – For seniors facing isolation, community programs and resources can be a lifeline to help alleviate loneliness and improve their mental, emotional and physical well-being. Now, the District of Saanich and local partners can expand these offerings thanks to more than $2.5 million in funding over 5 years from the federal government.

The District of Saanich will collaborate with municipalities and non-profit partners to increase social inclusion of isolated older adults including newcomer, Indigenous, Black, racialized and gender diverse seniors aged 55+ in the Greater Victoria area. The initiative, Equitable Social Connection Opportunities for Vulnerable Seniors in Our Region, funded in part by the Government of Canada’s New Horizon for Seniors program, addresses gaps in current services by offering a range of activities—from organized events to drop-in sessions—and transportation support to ensure accessibility.

“Isolation is a serious issue for seniors, particularly for those facing language barriers, a lack of familiarity with available resources, and transportation or mobility concerns,” says Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock. “This funding will go a long way towards ensuring all members of our community can participate in activities, improve their social connections and feel like they belong in Saanich.”

The total value of funding is $2,534,375.

As a Regional Equitable Accessible Community Happenings (REACH Isolated Seniors) Collective Impact project, nine community partners from around the region who work with older adults came forward to be collaborating organizations and lead a project to address a specific issue facing the community. These organizations include:

• Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society (VIRCS)
• Métis Nation of Greater Victoria in partnership with Victoria Native Friendship Centre
• Vancouver Island Counselling Centre for Immigrants and Refugees (VICCIR)
• Silver Threads Service
• Saanich Neighbourhood Place
• Capital Regional District
• Family Caregivers Society of British Columbia
• Greater Victoria Volunteer Society
• West Shore Parks & Recreation and City of Victoria

Learn more
For more information on Saanich’s programming for seniors, please visit the Community Services page on our website.

For more information on the federal New Horizons for Seniors program, please click here.

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Media contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca