21 local government and community service organisations will receive a share in close to $250,000 of funding support towards projects and initiatives aimed at reconnecting seniors impacted by social isolation during COVID-19.
Seniors and Ageing Minister Mick Murray congratulated the recipients of the Age-friendly Communities Social Connectivity Grants Program and highlighted the importance of initiatives that prevent older people from experiencing isolation and reduce the risk and occurrence of elder abuse.
The grants program is funded through the WA Government’s WA Recovery Plan, and will see projects delivered in the Kimberley, Pilbara, Goldfields, Great Southern and throughout metropolitan Perth.
A diverse range of exciting projects will be delivered including an IT program supported by the Obbo Community Development Association of Western Australia to help older people stay connected with friends and families, a regular seniors coffee club run by the Shire of Narembeen promoting inclusion and community connection, and a 10-week seniors fitness and well-being program in the Shire of Bruce Rock.
The broad themes of the approved support grants include:
- fostering age-friendly communities that recognise diversity among older people;
- promoting seniors’ inclusion and contribution;
- initiatives that respect the decisions and choices of older people; and
- projects that anticipate and respond to age-related needs and preferences.
Since its inception, the existing Age-friendly Communities Grants Program has contributed nearly $1 million in funding to local governments and community organisations across the State. In 2019-20, the program also included projects that promoted dementia-friendly communities.
Source: WA Government