Applications Now Open For Funding To Combat Isolation For Seniors

The NSW Government has launched the Combatting Social Isolation for Seniors During Covid-19 Grants Program to keep the older community connected during this time of social distancing.

$600,000 in grants will be available for organisations to create programs and activities to help members of the older community keep connected through online engagement or other ways that adhere to social distancing restrictions.

For a program to be eligible to apply for a grant, it must be focused on people aged 65 years and older, or focused on Aboriginal people 55 years and older.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke urged eligible organisations in the Cootamundra electorate to apply for the grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000.

“We want to fund innovative ideas to help seniors keep in touch by utilising phone calls, online platforms or other methods of communication,” Ms Cooke said.

“With so many seniors now missing their regular social activities, we want to encourage programs which foster inclusion and encourage positive social outcomes.”

Acting Minister for Seniors Geoff Lee said applications for the Combatting Social Isolation for Seniors During COVID-19 grants program are now open until the 26th of April.

“While more seniors are staying at home to protect their health, we do not want to create an epidemic of loneliness in our community,” Mr Lee said.

“Our most vulnerable age groups are being advised to follow social distancing rules, so face to face catch-ups and normal daily routines have become difficult.”

Social inclusion is a key priority of the NSW Ageing Strategy and is part of the NSW Government’s key commitment to meet the needs of the ageing population.

For more information, visit: www.dcj.nsw.gov.au/combatting-social-isolation-for-seniors

Seniors are urged to get the latest COVID-19 information at: www.health.nsw.gov.au

• Topics:

• Covid-19
• Steph Cooke