Ontario investing in historic number of seniors community programs
June 19, 2025
Global Korean Post
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The Ontario government is investing nearly $7 million to protect seniors and older adults by supporting over 330 community projects that help them to stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected. The Seniors Community Grant Program (SCGP) is designed to help seniors increase independence, reduce social isolation and create positive connections. It is being delivered alongside a suite of supports as Ontario marks Seniors Month.
SCGP recipients can receive up to $25,000 to support local programs, services and events to provide seniors with opportunities for greater social inclusion, volunteerism and community engagement. This year’s investment includes an additional $1 million, specifically for programs dedicated to improving the quality of life for senior veterans. Examples of active projects include:
- A cost-free, dedicated bus service connecting rural seniors to essential community programming in York Region.
- Pairing seniors with young adults living with developmental disabilities to collaborate on a series of art-making activities and an exhibit to showcase their artwork in Markham.
- Providing senior veterans with a series of weekly art workshops and exhibitions, led by a professional art therapist in eastern Ontario.
- Access to digital literacy and wellness workshops in underserved rural areas around northern Ontario.
Ontario is also expanding Seniors Active Living Centres (SALCs) to over 400 sites to increase access to services that connect seniors to activities and programs close to home. The centres promote wellness, encourage social interaction, and combat ageism to help seniors stay active, independent and engaged within their communities.
Finally, the government is supporting the over 100 Seniors Active Living Fairs expected to take place in 2025-26 which will provide more opportunities for seniors to learn about supports and resources in their community.
