Victoria: The Province said beginning June 1, communities in British Columbia can apply for funding aimed at helping seniors lead independent and active lives.
The B.C. government said by 2031, nearly one-quarter of the province’s population will be aged 65 or older. The Age-friendly BC program is facilitating independent living and community engagement among seniors by providing financial support to local governments and Indigenous communities, the government said.
In a press release, the government said in 2022, 25 communities received age-friendly grants across both streams.
“Of the successful communities, 13 were rural and remote, five were new to receiving age-friendly funding and four were Indigenous communities. Age-friendly projects that receive funding range from tailored housing, transportation, wellness, climate and emergency-management strategies and plans for seniors, to inclusive programs, public communications and outdoor spaces, such as parks and nature trails that ensure accessibility and safety for seniors,” the press release said.
“As people in B.C. age, our government has a responsibility to make sure seniors age with dignity and respect, and that includes having communities that are age-friendly,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health.
“I encourage local governments and Indigenous community leaders to apply for a grant that will lead to meaningful improvements locally for seniors,” he added.