United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington will be investing a portion of these funds in the local region as allocated by Employment Social Development Canada through United Way Centraide Canada. Funds will flow through registered charitable organizations that serve the KFL&A region.
Seniors are often most at risk of contracting and becoming seriously ill due to COVID-19. With physical distancing in place across the region, many are unable to access food programs or attend programs and activities that keep them active and connected.
Seniors are worried about being isolated, getting their groceries or meals delivered, filling their prescriptions, going shopping. Some are concerned about being alone and isolated during this pandemic. This fund will provide urgent funds to help ensure agencies have the supports they need to provide help to seniors. We are grateful to the federal government for providing this funding.” – Bhavana Varma, President and CEO, United Way KFL&A
Funds from the Seniors Response Fund will enable United Way KFL&A to identify and respond to needs of seniors (age 55+) affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds from the program will enable a nimble response based upon local knowledge and supports to address immediate needs
The funds will be used to help community service agencies address the needs of vulnerable seniors – working closely with municipalities, local public health authorities, business, labour and frontline agencies to coordinate investments where they are needed most.
The fund is intended to support the needs of vulnerable seniors. These funds will support agencies with the delivery of a range of community services including meeting basic needs like food, hot meals and personal care items, outreach and social support through check-ins with seniors, transportation and other services. The funding must go towards agencies who serve those who are 55+ in all regions of Canada, including rural and remote communities who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.This funding is the first step the Government is taking to put in place a program of supports for vulnerable Canadians and charitable sector organizations.
With this funding, United Way KFL&A, in partnership with Kingston Community Health Centre, has launch the Seniors’ Food Box.
For more information about the Seniors’ Food Box, including eligibility and application process, please contact the United Way at events@unitedwaykfla.ca
For information about community services and supports available in the KFL&A community please contact 211, visit www.211ontario.ca or visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca/covid-19-supports
And for more information about United Way KFL&A’s response to COVID-19 visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca/covid-19/
About the New Horizons for Seniors Program
The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) supports the Government of Canada’s overarching social goals to enhance the quality of life, and promote the full participation of individuals, including seniors, in all aspects of Canadian society. During COVID-19, and the requirement for social-distancing and self-isolation, these funds become even more important to ensure that vulnerable seniors have the supports they need for their wellbeing.
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