United Way East Kootenay has received federal government funding through its New Horizons for Seniors Program.

The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) provides grants and contributions for projects that help improve the well-being of seniors and foster their social inclusion. To provide immediate essential services to seniors impacted by COVID-19, the Government of Canada is providing $9 million under the NHSP to be distributed through United Way Canada network. These funds will help organizations providing support to seniors dealing with the impact of COVID-19.

“While physical distancing is essential to protecting seniors from COVID-19, it risks isolating them from their community. 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,” stated Hon. Deb Schulte, Minister of Seniors.

The United Way East Kootenay goals and objectives are to promote the organized capacity of people to care for one another through volunteerism, leadership and education. To ensure the effective raising and allocation of charitable funds for community-based social services that are in the best interest of the community.

The mandate of our United Way is “to provide financial assistance and support to community registered charities which promote or enhance life for those who suffer physical, mental, emotional or financial barriers.”

Our region includes to the west; Creston to Kingsgate, Kaslo and Balfour to central area of Cranbrook, Kimberley, Jaffray, Wardner and Wasa. To the north and eastern areas of the Columbia Valley and Elk Valley which include Invermere, Sparwood, Fernie, Roosville, Elko, Radium and many smaller communities. A large region whereby larger communities contain the majority of services for residents of smaller communities. In some areas satellite service locations are often set up.

The United Way office is located in Cranbrook and is available and working on outlying community outreach and collaborations on an ongoing basis.

Our Agency partners who will be providing support for vulnerable seniors with the New Horizons for Seniors funding are: Summit Community Services, Seniors helping Seniors in Kimberley; Salvation Army/Foodbank serving Fernie and area; Community Connections Society, Better at Home in Cranbrook; Cranbrook Food Bank serving Cranbrook and area; Family Dynamix Association, Better at Home and Safe Seniors, Strong Communities serving Invermere, Columbia Valley and the Elk Valley; United Way East Kootenay, Seniors in Partnership Cranbrook; Sparwood Old Age Pensioners Society serving Sparwood and area; and the Creston Valley Community Services serving the Creston Valley.

If you are a senior 55+ needing support dealing with COVID-19 call 211 or go online to bc211 and register. Within 48 hours you will be connected with one of the above agencies to help you. You are not alone, help is available.

United Way East Kootenay

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