Communities can now begin to apply with the Ontario government for the new Seniors Community Grant.

The applications are being taken from not-for-profits which are looking to help seniors feel more connected with their communities.

According to Statistics Canada, by the year 2016, seniors in Ontario will well outnumber the youth under 14 years old.

In 2011, 14,265 people living in Brantford were classified as seniors.

Brant MPP Dave Levac has made a strong effort to increase the availability of services for seniors within Brant. Levac was sadly not available for comment.

“The Seniors Community Grant Program will have a meaningful impact in our communities,” said Sue Hesjedahl, Executive Director of Older Adult Centres’ Association of Ontario. “Through these grants, seniors-focused organizations can help foster volunteerism, social inclusion and learning activities.”

The program will provide anywhere between $500 and $10,000 to groups who help their seniors groups in all areas of life.

“Working with community partners our government is addressing the problem of social isolation among seniors,” said Mario Sergio, Minister Responsible for Seniors Affairs in Ontario. “Through the Seniors Community Grant Program we are keeping seniors connected to their communities.”

The Seniors Community Grant Program covers anything from a single event to an on going program, all looking to benefit seniors within the community.

The program is a part of the Ontario government’s action plan.