Ontario Government Expands Access to Seniors Programs with New Call for Proposals

TORONTO, ON — The Ontario government has announced a significant expansion of the Seniors Active Living Centres (SALC) programs, inviting new proposals aimed at enhancing services and activities for seniors across the province. This initiative is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to support the well-being and independence of older adults in Ontario.

Raymond Cho, the Minister for Seniors and Accessibility, highlighted the importance of these programs in fostering healthier, more active lifestyles for seniors. “Seniors Active Living Centres improve the lives of Ontario’s seniors,” said Cho. “Our government is expanding the number of programs with this call for proposals so more seniors can have access to services and activities to live healthy, active, and independent lives.”

📣 Ontario launches call for proposals for new Seniors Active Living Centre programs!
This will help more seniors stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected in their communities.
Learn more: https://t.co/0YJU9p6lYj pic.twitter.com/Ugj4UOLBUs

— Raymond Cho (@RaymondChoPC) July 16, 2024

The SALC programs have been a resounding success, with more than 300 centres currently operating under the management of various municipalities. Recent amendments to the Seniors Active Living Centres Act, 2017, which came into effect on June 1, 2024, now permit a broader range of organizations, including Legions, Lion’s Clubs, and recreational clubs, to apply for the program. This expansion aims to ensure that a diverse array of community groups can contribute to the health and engagement of seniors.

The call for proposals is open until September 12, 2024, at 5 p.m. Eligible organizations are encouraged to submit their applications to partake in this opportunity to make a positive impact on their local senior communities.

In addition to this call for proposals, the Ontario government has committed over $15 million to support existing SALC programs across the province, marking an increase of approximately $1 million from the previous year. This funding boost will see the majority of SALC programs receiving a maintenance and operating budget increase from $42,700 to up to $50,000. Organizations delivering SALC programming contribute 20 per cent of the cost, with the province covering the remaining 80 per cent.

To assist organizations interested in submitting proposals, the Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility will host information webinars. These sessions will provide detailed guidance on the application process and program requirements. The scheduled dates for the webinars are as follows:

• Wednesday, July 24, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. (English) Register here.
• Wednesday, July 24, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. (French) Register here.
• Tuesday, August 27, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. (English) Register here.
• Tuesday, August 27, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. (French) Register here.

For more information about the Seniors Active Living Centres programs and the application process, visit the Ontario Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility website.

This expansion of the SALC programs represents a proactive step by the Ontario government to address the growing needs of its senior population, ensuring they remain active, healthy, and integrated within their communities.