Havelock seniors get a financial boost
Provincial funding to help grow programs and reach into rural communities
The Havelock Seniors Club has been approved for up to $65,000 in annual funding as part of the Seniors Active Living Centres program.
The funding announcement was celebrated last Thursday in Havelock, where members of the Havelock Seniors Club met with Minister for Seniors and Accessibility Raymond Cho, Peterborough—Kawartha MPP Dave Smith, Peterborough County Warden Bonnie Clark, Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Township Mayor Jim Martin and township representatives to mark the milestone.
The Havelock Seniors Centre, located at 10 George St. W. in Havelock, provides a space for members aged 50 and older — there are about 160 of them — to socialize and participate in a variety of activities, including euchre and darts.
Community members can also rent the hall out for celebrations of life, wedding parties, luncheons and other events.
The Seniors Active Living Centres (SALC) program promotes active and healthy living, social engagement and learning for older adults and seniors by providing them with activities and services.
The Ontario Government expanded the program in 20232024, encouraging senior organizations to submit proposals to launch a new SALC program in municipalities that didn’t already have an existing program.
SALC programs aim to help build healthier and safer communities while addressing the long-term growth and needs of aging populations.
Dignitaries attending the recent celebration praised the new SALC program for the Havelock Seniors Club.
“Community connection is critical for the health and wellbeing of seniors in our communities,” said Minister Cho.
“Our government proudly supports the new Havelock Seniors Active Living Centres program which will provide valuable programming to keep seniors in the community connected, healthy and engaged,” he continued.
Smith said the funding will go a long way.
“This funding that the Havelock Seniors Club will be receiving through the SALC program will enable seniors to enjoy activities with their friends that will help reduce social isolation and provide them with the means to stay active and engaged,” said Smith.
Warden Clark congratulated the Havelock Seniors Club on securing the funding.
“The Club has a long history of providing high quality programming for seniors in Havelock and the surrounding areas. Thank you to the club volunteers for their dedication and passion for their fellow citizens,” Clark said, expressing appreciation to the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility for recognizing the need to support seniors and expanding the SALC program to include new communities, especially those in rural areas.
Mary Pequegnat, president of the Havelock Seniors Club, said the funding presents an “amazing opportunity” for the group.
“This funding will allow us to grow our programs and reach into our more rural communities with accessible services. We are thrilled to be a hub for senior programs and to partner with other organizations throughout (the township).”