The United Way/Centraide of Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry and the members of the Regional Emergency Response Council are delighted to share with the community that we have been awarded $100,343.00, funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program. The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) provides grants and contributions for projects that help improve the well-being of seniors and foster their social inclusion. To provide immediate essential services to seniors impacted by COVID-19, the Government of Canada is providing $9 million under the NHSP to be distributed through the United Way Canada network. These funds will help organizations providing support to seniors dealing with the impact of COVID-19.

“While physical distancing is essential to protecting seniors from COVID-19, it risks isolating them from their community. That is why the Government of Canada is proud to work with United Way Canada to help support the needs of seniors during this difficult time,” said The Honorable Deb Schulte, Minister of Seniors. “By using local expertise, this funding will help provide support tailored to the unique, local needs of seniors across the country. As we work together to flatten the curve and slow the spread of the virus, the government is supporting Canadians every step of the way.”

“The Council has decided to spend a majority of this funding on food securities issues affecting our seniors,” said Juliette Labossière- Executive Director United Way of S.D.& G. “With the support of the Regional Emergency Response Council, which the United Way of S.D.&G. co-chairs with the Social Development Council of Cornwall and Area, we will collaborate with many local agencies, non-profits and charitable organizations such as Carefor, Seaway Valley Community Health Centre, the City of Cornwall and the Service Clubs of Cornwall to expand the offer related to food access. We will continue to support free grocery delivery services such as GoFeedMe, but beginning next week we will also include the delivery of a fully subsidized emergency food hamper the right to the door of qualifying seniors”.

“Unfortunately many residents of SDG, Cornwall, and Akwesasne face food insecurity in our community regardless of a pandemic. Due to the current situation, the number of people living with this challenge is growing every day. With this funding we can help some of our most vulnerable people receive the food they need without putting them at risk. ” says Carilyne Hébert Executive Director of the Social Development Council of Cornwall and Area.

If you are a senior and need help accessing food during this crisis, the centralized phone referral program, which begins with a call to 2-1-1, will best guide you to the services that you may need during this crisis. A team of professionals will answer all of your questions and ensure we refer you to the right foodservice, be it Foodbank, grocery delivery, Meals on Wheels, or the new emergency food hamper program that best fits your current needs. Please call today and let us, the United Way of SD&G and the members of the Regional Emergency Response Council help get you the services you need.