United Way Oxford is able to ensure seniors have access to supports during the pandemic, courtesy of the federal government’s New Horizons for Seniors Program.
OXFORD COUNTY - Seniors in Oxford County will now have access to supports during COVID-19.
Along with local funding, United Way Oxford has invested $47,114 from the federal government’s New Horizons for Seniors Program to put towards multiple agencies in the County.
The Honorable Deb Schulte, Minister of Seniors says the program will support all seniors across Canada.
“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.”
In a recent press release, United Way says more than 1,500 Oxford County seniors can expect to have access to services and subsidies they need during this difficult time. They say this is due to the dedicated staff and volunteers from each of the funded partners.
Executive Director, United Way Oxford Kelly Gilson says each of the funded partners plays an important role in the seniors lives.
“Each of these funded partners play an important role in the lives of many seniors across Oxford. They are best positioned to adapt and expand their programming and services to meet the increasing needs during COVID-19. They will help ensure that our most vulnerable seniors, and their caregivers, get the help that they need. Additionally, we are building awareness and support of 211 across our community, which has lasting impact that will benefit our community for years to come.”
The funding will go to support the following agencies:
- VON Oxford – to increase Central Intake capacity, launch a Grocery Buddy Program, enhance Meals on Wheels service, support for required subsidy increases for low income seniors, emergency Grocery Boxes for those in need, and packages for clients and their caregivers who have been a part of their Adult Day Programs but are now isolated and in need of respite activities and support;
- Ingersoll Services for Seniors – to enhance and expand the Grocery Buddy Program, to expand meal preparations and delivery/pick-up options as well as subsidies for those in need, along with enhanced personal connection opportunities via wellness calls and Seniors Centres without Walls programming;
Tillsonburg District Multi-Service Centre – to launch a Grocery Buddy Program, to enhance Meals on Wheels service, support required subsidy increases for low income seniors, and to purchase the necessary equipment to allow for safe delivery of frozen meals for those in need;
South Gate Seniors Centre – to purchase equipment to allow for a launch of ‘Seniors Centres Without Walls’ which allows any senior in Oxford to access either the phone or internet program so that they can engage, connect, learn and get active at home while lonely and isolated from their peers and support networks;
Alzheimer’s Society of Oxford – to develop and deliver Activity Kits to support individuals and their caregivers who are now isolated without supports or access to Day Programs.
In addition, seniors and all community members will know how to get help for themselves and their loved ones through the Central Intake and become aware of 211.
United Way has also partnered with local senior service deliver partners in a direct mail campaign. A postcard, delivered to all homes in the County, urges seniors who need assistance to call 1-888-866-7518.
Programs and services that will be available include no charge Grocery Buddy Programs and various subsidies for meal supports too. Residents can also call 211 for any information and referrals for social, human and health services.
The NHSP provides grants and contributions to help the well-being of seniors and involve them in society.
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