MPP Stephen Lecce and MPP Laura Smith announce $9,988 Seniors Community Grant for First Chinese Seniors’ Association of Vaughan (FCSAV) in Vaughan

VAUGHAN — Stephen Lecce, MPP for King—Vaughan, and Laura Smith, MPP for Thornhill, announced that First Chinese Seniors’ Association of Vaughan (FCSAV) has received a Seniors Community Grant bringing seniors together in Thornhill.

“Seniors helped built this country, now we are giving back to the greatest generation,” said Stephen Lecce, MPP for King—Vaughan. “The First Chinese Seniors’ Association of Vaughan is a major pillar of our community — by investing nearly $10,000 — our government is ensuring seniors in Vaughan stay connected through engaging activities — creating strong friendships, and a strong community.”

“FCSAV has created a space where seniors can learn new skills, stay involved, and build lasting friendships,” said Laura Smith, MPP for Thornhill. “This funding will help them continue offering the programs and activities that make that possible and ensure more seniors in our community have opportunities to participate, feel supported, and remain socially connected.”

With this investment, FCSAV will support seniors in maintaining active lifestyles and social connections through weekly volunteer-led activities, such as dancing, exercise, and Mahjong, engaging about 30 participants per session. There will also be two Lunch & Learn workshops on health and safety topics including fall prevention, elder abuse, fraud awareness, and ageism each reaching around 40 seniors. To ensure broad access, Zoom presentations will extend access to those unable to attend in person, with family participation encouraged. Additionally, to further address neglect, depression, and isolation, the project will also host an outdoor trip.

The Ontario government is investing up to $7 million for more than 320 Seniors Community Grants helping seniors and stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected, close to home and in their communities.

“The Seniors Community Grants Program is a great example of how our government is working for local communities,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “We are pleased to provide investments for so many services and activities that bring seniors together, learn new skills, get fit, and stay connected to their neighbours and friends.”

Up to $25,000 per project is invested in local services, activities and events to provide seniors with opportunities for greater social inclusion, volunteerism and community engagement. The Seniors Community Grants is a unique Ontario government grant designed to reduce social isolation, fight ageism and create positive connections.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to MPP Laura Smith for championing our club, FCSAV, and to the Government of Ontario for providing us with a Seniors Community Grant,” said Dominic Lee, President, FCSAV. “This funding breathes new life into our programs, keeping our seniors active, engaged, and thriving through Game Days, Tai Chi, Dancing, and community gatherings. Coupled with the City of Vaughan’s ongoing support of our facilities, this investment will make a lasting difference in the lives of our community, and we look forward to a vibrant year ahead.”

Since 2018, Ontario has invested more than $40 million dollars in over 2,100 Seniors Community Grants.

MEDIA CONTACT                                                                                              

Stephen Lecce, MPP for King—Vaughan

Constituency Office

Tel.: 647-560-9700        

Email: Stephen.Lecce@pc.ola.org