Ontario Helping Seniors Stay Healthy and Independent in Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston

Press Release – Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility

The Ontario government is investing nearly $7 million to protect seniors and older adults by supporting over 330 community projects that help them to stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected. The Seniors Community Grant Program (SCGP) is designed to help seniors increase independence, reduce social isolation and create positive connections. It is being delivered alongside a suite of supports as Ontario marks Seniors Month.

“These investments make such a huge difference in the lives of our seniors,” said John Jordan, MPP for Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston. “Staying connected, close to home and safely taking part in local activities helps our seniors keep active with friends, family and community. My thanks to Minister Cho for recognizing so many vital organizations in my riding of Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston.”

A total of 11 organizations will receive funding, including the Municipality of Mississippi Mills for its pickleball program.

“On behalf of Mississippi Mills, I’d like to thank the Province of Ontario for this support. The Municipality’s pickleball program has quickly become one of our most popular recreational activities. This grant will expand the Pakenham program, transforming the arena slab into four pickleball courts for use during the summer and offer more opportunities for people to discover the sport, improve their physical health and enhance social connections,” said Mayor Christa Lowry, Municipality of Mississippi Mills.

“Amid economic uncertainty and rising costs, Premier Ford and our government are proud to protect our seniors and ensure they have access to affordable and reliable community supports,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “The Seniors Community Grant Program is a critical lifeline in every corner of our province for seniors to learn new skills, get fit, enjoy group activities and stay connected to their neighbours and friends.”

Another successful recipient, the Township of Montague, will use the grant for its Seniors Sharing Stories.

“The Township will offer day trips to Fort Henry, the Diefenbunker, Chateau Laurier and the 1,000 Islands to learn about the history surrounding the War of 1812, the Cold War, WWI and WWII to remember and celebrate our veterans and sacrifices made in the history of Canada.  In addition to the day trips, we will have quarterly book clubs that will focus on the history of Canada or historical events in Canada and a monthly 55+ breakfast club for seniors to socialize and share stories,” said Karen Jennings, Reeve of the Township of Montague. “The continued support of MPP John Jordan and the Province of Ontario has allowed the Township of Montague to offer exceptional opportunities at low cost to not only the seniors in Montague but the surrounding area. These financial contributions have substantial impact on our small rural community, and we extend a heartfelt thank you for another year of funding!”

SCGP recipients can receive up to $25,000 to support local programs, services and events to provide seniors with opportunities for greater social inclusion, volunteerism and community engagement. This year’s investment includes an additional $1 million, specifically for programs dedicated to improving the quality of life for senior veterans.

Lanark County will use its grant to purchase a Van Ram Plus wheelchair accessible trishaw.

“Lanark County is thrilled to be a recipient of the Seniors Community Grant on behalf of Cycling without Age Lanark County. The trishaw will provide a unique and inclusive mode of transportation, fostering connection and accessibility. It will help our seniors connect with others and with Lanark’s greatest asset – our pristine outdoors,” said Kurt Greaves, CAO of Lanark County.

“Receiving the Ontario Seniors Community Grant means the Carleton Place Curling Club can expand our role in providing seniors in our community with safe, healthy, and accessible social activities. Our goal is to create a social hub that engages seniors through card games, board games, low impact activities and special events.  We plan to use the funds to establish a sustainable program in concert with community stakeholders and use this as an opportunity to expand our engagement with and service to the Town of Carleton Place and the surrounding rural townships,” noted Darryl Howell, Director, Carleton Place Curling Club.

Other successful recipients include:

• Watson’s Corners Community Hall, for its First Fridays Food with Friends Program
• The Perth Tay Tennis Club, for its Active Aging Through Tennis: Fitness and Injury Prevention for Seniors Program
• The Town of Perth, for its Seniors’ Neighbourhood Pop-Up Social Hours
• The Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority, for its Nature and Community Connections for Seniors Program
• The Lanark Highlands Public Library Board, for its Along for the Ride in Mind, Body and Spirit Program
• Home Hospice North Lanark, for its 55+ Expo in Mississippi Mills
• Carebridge Community Support, for its SeniorTech Connect: A Digital Skills Program, empowering Seniors to Connect Safely Online

Ontario is also expanding Seniors Active Living Centres (SALCs) to over 400 sites to increase access to services that connect seniors to activities and programs close to home. The centres promote wellness, encourage social interaction, and combat ageism to help seniors stay active, independent and engaged within their communities.

Finally, the government is supporting the over 100 Seniors Active Living Fairs expected to take place in 2025-26 which will provide more opportunities for seniors to learn about supports and resources in their community.

Quick facts

• See the full list of 2025-26 Seniors Community Grants.
• To find a SALC near you, visit this link.
• Ontario’s 2025-26 Budget increased funding for the Seniors Community Grant Program by an additional $1 million, with special focus on supporting Ontario’s veterans.
• The number of seniors aged 65 and over is projected to increase significantly, from 2.8 million or 18.4 per cent of population in 2022, to 4.4 million, or 20.3 per cent by 2046.

Additional resources

A Guide to Programs and Services for Seniors