P.E.I. approves funding for communal meals for seniors

CTV News

4 days ago

Several organizations in P.E.I. have been approved for more than $160,000 from the provincial government to host free community meals for seniors.
The provincial government made the announcement on Wednesday, saying a total of 41 organizations have been approved for funding through the Department of Social Development and Seniors.
'Our department is committed to improving the quality of life for older Islanders, reducing social isolation, and helping seniors better connect with their communities and peers,' said Social Development and Seniors Minister Barb Ramsay.
'These meals are a great way for older Islanders to visit with friends and neighbours while enjoying a delicious meal, and wonderful hospitality provided by these outstanding community organizations.'
A pilot program was launched in 2024 called the provided funding to organizations to host these free communal meals for seniors in hopes of reducing social isolation and supporting meals for older Islanders.
The province says the pilot was well received by the public, leading to the program being offered for another year with grants of up to $5,000 being awarded in June.
'We see first-hand the positive impact these meals create, and how healthy it is for seniors to be interacting with their peers and having a good time,' said the chair of the Parkview Senior Citizens Club Jim Steele. 'We are proud to partner with the province to deliver these community meals.'
The province says it is also developing a new five-year Seniors Action Plan which will recommend measures in hopes of helping address the needs of P.E.I.'s aging population which the province expects to be released in the fall this year.
For more P.E.I. news, visit our dedicated provincial page.