Ontario Helping Seniors Stay Healthy and Independent in Elgin-Middlesex-London

June 20, 2025

Investment part of historic number of community programs and active living centres funded to support healthy and socially connected living

NEWS

ELGIN-MIDDLESEX-LONDON — The Ontario government is investing more than $100,000 for 6 projects across Elgin-Middlesex-London. The Funding is part of the Seniors Community Grant Program (SCGP), which is designed to help seniors increase independence, reduce social isolation and create positive connections. The SCGP is being delivered alongside a suite of supports as Ontario marks Seniors Month.

“Helping our seniors stay active and connected is so important, it’s good for them and good for the whole community”, said Rob Flack, MPP for Elgin-Middlesex-London. These programs bring people together, fight loneliness, and make sure our seniors know they’re valued. It’s great to see the government investing in local projects that really make a difference for people here at home.”

The government is investing $7 million in the SCGP this year to protect seniors and older adults by supporting over 330 community projects that help them to stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected. 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.

Elgin-Middlesex-London recipients include, the County of Elgin, the Central Community Health Centre in St. Thomas, the YWCA of St. Thomas-Elgin, the Town of Aylmer, West Elgin Community Health Centre and Pearce Williams Summer Camp and Retreat Facility.

“We are incredibly grateful for this funding, which allows Central Community Health Centre to launch the Senior Savvy Spoon Collective Kitchen Program, an initiative that empowers older adults to prepare affordable, nutritious meals while fostering stronger social connections”, said Diane Arsenijevic, Program Coordinator at Central Community Health Centre in St. Thomas. “This support will help reduce isolation, promote wellness, and provide opportunities for seniors to stay active, engaged, and connected in their communities”.

“This funding will support the Elgin-St. Thomas Adult Day Program by allowing us to restart our much-needed pool therapy program and enhance our rehab circuit — both of which are critical in supporting stroke survivors on their journey to recovery,” stated Elgin County Warden Grant Jones. “These therapies help individuals regain strength, mobility, and independence in a supportive, community-based setting. We’re deeply grateful for this investment in the health and resilience of our community.”

“The Town of Aylmer is very pleased to have been selected as a recipient of the 2025-2026 Seniors Community Grant Program”, said Susie Wray, Manager of Parks and Recreation. “This funding will have a positive impact on residents of Aylmer by providing opportunities for older adults to stay active and engaged in their community, at no cost to participate.” She added, “the Active Living Aylmer project will provide recreation programming for older adults including educational workshops, pop-up seniors centres, creative art classes, fitness opportunities and more, in their own community.”

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.

“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.”

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

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

MEDIA CONTACT:
Emily Bradshaw
Office of Rob Flack, MPP
emily.bradshaw@pc.ola.org