Photo supplied by the office of MPP Billy Denault
The Ontario government is investing in eight projects across Renfrew–Nipissing–Pembroke through its Seniors Community Grant program, supporting initiatives aimed at helping older adults stay active, healthy and socially connected.
Renfrew–Nipissing–Pembroke MPP Billy Denault announced the funding on July 16, saying the grants will create new opportunities for seniors to remain engaged in their communities while reducing social isolation.
The projects are among more than 320 initiatives receiving support across Ontario through the provincial program, which provides grants of up to $25,000 for local services, activities and events for seniors.
Several municipalities in the riding received the maximum $25,000 grant.
The Township of Greater Madawaska will use its funding to expand programming at its Seniors Active Living Centre, adding swimming, Coffee and Cards sessions and beginner pickleball for adults aged 55 and older. The township expects the expanded programming to serve about 120 seniors between June 2026 and March 2027.
The Township of Laurentian Valley will receive $25,000 to launch the Festival Hall Seniors Theatre Program, where older adults will participate in weekly theatre workshops, develop performances inspired by life in the Ottawa Valley and share their stories through the arts.
Hospice Renfrew was also awarded $25,000 to expand support for residents with life-limiting illnesses through its Volunteer Visiting Program, which provides companionship, emotional support and practical assistance to people receiving palliative care at home.
The Town of Deep River will use its $25,000 grant to organize bus trips, dances and live entertainment for seniors and veterans with the goal of reducing social isolation and encouraging community participation.
Other funded projects include a $23,800 grant to the Township of South Algonquin for a monthly seniors dinner series featuring meals, wellness programming and educational sessions, including fraud prevention information.
The Township of Brudenell, Lyndoch and Raglan received $9,940 to establish a senior-led monthly lunch program in Palmer Rapids that will offer meals, educational presentations and opportunities for social connection.
The Town of Petawawa received $14,760 for its 55+ Active Aging Initiative, which will provide wellness workshops, recreation programs, peer support, technology training and activities for older adults and senior veterans.
Denault said the funding will help seniors continue living healthy, fulfilling lives while strengthening community connections across the riding.
Provincewide, the Ontario government is investing up to $7 million this year through the Seniors Community Grant program. Since 2018, the province says it has invested more than $40 million in over 2,100 projects designed to reduce social isolation, encourage volunteerism and promote healthy aging.
(Steve Berard)
