Local seniors can learn how to access the Newmarket Public Library's electronic resources, thanks to an Ontario government grant of more than $5,000.
The community grant funding would help the library train 200 participants with the purchase of 16 tablets for the digital literacy and tablet loan programs for seniors, library CEO Tracy Munusami said in a news release.
“We are excited to be able to give seniors another way to access information and entertainment from their own homes,” she said.
Provincial dignitaries visited Newmarket Jan. 12 to announce total funding of $28,967 for local recipients of the grants aimed at keeping seniors healthy and socially connected.
“Staying connected close to home and safely taking part in local life ensures that our seniors keep active with friends, family and the community,” Newmarket-Aurora MPP Dawn Gallagher Murphy said.
The Town of Aurora will receive more than $8,800 for a fitness and education series for older adults and seniors.
The Regional Municipality of York will receive $15,000 for a four-week workshop series for residents of seniors housing who will receive a "life book" that documents important details such as family recipes, favourite memories and a power of attorney.
York Region chairman and CEO Wayne Emmerson said it will help residents at four community housing sites to “deepen social connections and celebrate diversity.”
The Ontario government is providing 305 seniors community grants this year, with funding ranging from $1,000 up to $25,000. Since 2018, the province has provided 1,249 grants, totalling almost $22 million across Ontario.
“Our government is proud to invest in these projects with local organizations to meet the needs of seniors, provide the supports seniors need and deserve that also help to battle social isolation,” Minister of Seniors and Accessibility Raymond Cho said.
