Centre receives grant to go towards seniors programming

Regional councillor Bruce Garrod announces a $25,000 provincial grant for the Uxbridge Seniors Club alongside Minister for Seniors and Accessibility Raymond Cho, and Pickering-Uxbridge MPP Peter Bethlenfalvy. Photo by John Cavers

Roger Varley, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Two provincial cabinet ministers were in Uxbridge last Friday for an announcement about a grant to the Senior Centre.

Mayor Dave Barton introduced Finance Minister and MPP for Pickering-Uxbridge Peter Bethlenfalvy by saying when the minister comes to town, "It's always good news."

Bethlenfalvy spoke about Canada's trade negotiations with the United States, saying Canada must get a good deal, noting "these are tough times."

He then introduced Raymond Cho, minister for seniors and accessibility, who told the assembled seniors, "I don't come empty handed."

Cho talked about being happy, smiling and then led the audience in raising their arms and having "a good belly laugh."

It was left to regional councillor Bruce Garrod to make the announcement: a $25,000 grant from the province's Senior Community Grant program. The money will go to the “Age Well Uxbridge: Mobility, Wellness, and Education Series,” a no fee ‘play and learn’ type pass for a variety of classes and workshops. The program is designed to improve mobility, reduce fall risk, strengthen social connections, enhance access to the professional guidance and health resources, and support rural seniors in aging well and safely at home.

“Seniors are healthier, happier and more active when they have strong relationships, opportunities to get out, and new experiences to look forward to,” said Barton.