United Way Seniors Support

Thursday, 23 April 2020 17:28

Help and support for vulnerable seniors is on the way.

United Way Yukon has established the Vulnerable Seniors COVID-19 Response Fund to help address the urgent needs of individuals affected by the pandemic. Funds for the $75,000 initiative come from the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program.

Eligible non-profit organizations are encouraged to undertake projects/programs that provide immediate benefit to vulnerable seniors and Elders (aged 55+) affected by the pandemic, including their caregivers. Projects may include:

the purchase/distribution of tangible goods (e.g. food, cleaning or hygiene products)
activities to reduce social isolation and/or address mental and emotional health
actions to meet other urgent needs not addressed by other programs in place.

President David Whiteside said in a statement, "Time is of the essence.

We want applications in by May 3rd, we'll have a decision for applicants by May 8, and the money will flow on or before May 15.

This reflects the focus of the New Horizons program to address urgent needs in the short term - projects should wrap up by the end of June."
The application form and instructions for applying are posted on the United Way Yukon website (www.unitedwayyukon.ca).

They have already been distributed via e-mail to a wide range of Non-Government Organizations in the helping sector.

The $9 million New Horizons for Seniors Program funding was announced on March 29, 2020, by the Prime Minister. It is the first step the federal government is taking to put in place a program of supports for vulnerable Canadians and charitable sector organizations.

"The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented crisis affecting all Canadians, and putting many at risk due to isolation, job loss and poverty," said Whiteside. "Without support, many Elders and seniors risk losing their independence, dignity and health."

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