(Ottawa, ON) Seniors living in the Peterborough Riding can anticipate new opportunities to participate in and contribute to their communities thanks to Government of Canada support for a number of local projects.

Dean Del Mastro, Member of Parliament for Peterborough, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, and the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of State (Seniors).

“The Government of Canada is improving the lives of seniors, and is proud to support local organizations with the same goal,” stated MP Del Mastro. “These projects will encourage seniors to contribute their skills, knowledge and experience for the benefit of the entire community.”

“Today’s seniors know the importance of being active and staying involved in their communities,” said Minister Fantino. “The New Horizons for Seniors Program is just one example of how we are helping seniors make a positive difference in their own lives and in those of the people around them.”

The following local projects were approved through the 2010–2011 Capital Assistance Call for Proposals:

$9,972 awarded to ACTIVITY HAVEN SENIOR CENTRE in Peterborough.  The funding will be used to replace air conditioners in an activity room and boardroom in the basement.  Funds will also be used to purchase a BBQ so that seniors can enjoy the outdoors. 

$25,000 awarded to the 428 WING, AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION OF CANADA in Peterborough.  The funding will be used to renovate the ladies bathroom and replace furniture so that they can continue to offer social and recreational programs and activities for seniors.

$14,606 awarded to the ENNISMORE SENIORS CLUB.  The funding will be used to renovate the washrooms, flooring, walls, ceiling and purchase new equipment and chairs in order for seniors to continue their social and recreational activities in the Township of Smith-Ennismore-Lakefield.

$24,638 awarded to the LAKEFIELD GOLDEN YEARS CLUB. The funding will be used to replace the heating and cooling system so that seniors will benefit during the hot summer months and can continue to participate in activities and programs.

$24,918 awarded to the ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION BRANCH 300 in Norwood.  The funding will be used to renovate the men's washroom facility and replace broken equipment in the banquet hall so that seniors may continue to participate in programs and activities in the Norwood community.

$10,000 awarded to the ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION BRANCH 77 in Lakefield.  The funding will be used to replace the chairs and tables so that the seniors may continue social and recreational activities such as sports, dinners, cards and karaoke.

The Government of Canada is making enhancements to the Program. These enhancements will allow a broader array of organizations to develop a greater variety of projects to meet the changing needs of communities.