The Ontario government is investing $3.7 million in 316 existing Seniors Active Living Centre programs across the province. The funding is the fourth and final quarterly installment payment for this fiscal year to help centres deliver in-person and virtual programs that help older adults aged 55 and older keep fit, healthy, active and socially connected to their communities.

“This year, we have increased our investment in Seniors Active Living Centres by almost one million dollars over last year, to provide seniors with more opportunities to access programs and supports,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “Our government continues to invest in Seniors Active Living Centre programs that are improving the health and well-being of Ontario’s aging population.”

The government’s 2024 Fall Economic Statement increased base funding for all Seniors Active Living Centres for this coming year, from up to $42,700 to up to $55,000 to ensure centres have the support they need to continue providing seniors services and activities. The funding is provided to centres in four equal quarterly payments each year.

“Our government is making record investments to ensure more seniors are supported in our community for years to come,” said Sylvia Jones, MPP for Dufferin-Caledon. “The Caledon Seniors Centre is a hub of our community and today’s announcement is another step our government is taking to give seniors the opportunity to enjoy active living and a healthy lifestyle.”

Due to the success of Seniors Active Living Centres (SALCs), the government is investing up to an additional $17 million to expand the number of SALCs by 100 across Ontario from 316 to 416 beginning in 2024-25. This will increase services for seniors and those with disabilities in underserved communities. A call for proposals was launched in July 2024 and the successful new SALC recipients will be announced starting in early 2025.

“The government’s investment in adding up to 100 more Seniors Active Living Centre programs across Ontario, along with over a 28 per cent increase in base funding since 2023-24, demonstrates a significant commitment to supporting seniors in Ontario,” said Sue Hesjedahl, Executive Director, Older Adult Centres’ Association of Ontario (OACAO). “This is an important step forward in addressing the growing demands on
SALCs. We’re thrilled to see the government responding to the needs of SALCs,