From the President’s Desk

As my husband was lighting the fire for the first time this year, I was thinking about the ‘Winter Warmer’ package that is due to start on May 1.

This ongoing initiative from the government has made the difference to many of our seniors, and especially those whose sole income is the pension.

I would just like to remind people to use this top-up benefit for what it is intended. I know from experience that some people will put this money away for a ‘rainy day’ and continue to live in a home that is under-heated in the winter months.

I can assure you that the government will be keeping a close eye on statistics of how this initiative is affecting our seniors by tracking whether the instances of flu, pneumonia, and hypothermia cases are declining or increasing at doctors’ surgeries, after hours health clinics and A&E.

The initiative will not stop all these ailments, but it should have a positive impact.

Some of you will remember that the package was doubled last year due to the Covid-19 lockdown, but the allowance will go back to the original $20.46 for a single person and $31.82 for a couple per week this year.

On a less serious note, it has been lovely watching our seniors taking advantage of the settled weather and buzzing about on their mobility scooters.

It is amazing how many different types can be seen about now to enhance people’s personalities.

Keep safe and stay warm.