YORKTON - Cathay Wagantall, Member of Parliament for Yorkton-Melville, is advising communities that the 2023-24 New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) call for proposals for funding opened on Aug. 1 with the application deadline set for 1 p.m. on Sept. 14.
“The application period is much earlier this year, so hopefully that won’t take too many potential applicants by surprise, especially since this is in the middle of summer,” said Wagantall. “Usually the call for proposals is in early September with a mid-to-late October deadline, but the Liberal government has really moved that up this year.”
NHSP is a federal grants and contributions program that funds projects intended to empower seniors in their communities and contribute to improving seniors’ health and well-being. Essentially, seniors lead and inspire projects to make a difference in the lives of others and in their communities. Community-based projects are eligible to receive up to $25,000 in grant funding.
The objectives of the NHSP are to:
• promote volunteerism among seniors and other generations;
• engage seniors in the community in mentoring through the mentoring of others;
• expand awareness of elder abuse, including financial abuse;
• support the social participation and inclusion of seniors; and
• provide capital assistance for new and existing community projects and programs for seniors.
“Last year, 18 projects in Yorkton-Melville were approved, with a combined amount of just under $300,000 in federal funding received,” said Wagantall. “The 2022-23 projects approved in our riding included several with building upgrades; there were projects to improve facility accessibility; projects for wellness programs and health services; and even funding provided for seniors’ exercise programs,” said Wa#gantall. “I strongly encourage our seniors groups and communities to consider applying this year.”
For details on how to apply, visit https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/new-horizons-seniors.html. Here, senior-serving organizations can access support in preparing their application and managing their agreement. Additional information can also be provided through MP Wagantall’s constituency office at 306-782-3309.
