$600,000 in grants to help seniors stay connected

Tuesday, 27 February 2024

Seniors across the state will have more opportunities to socialise and learn new skills thanks to $600,000 in grants from the NSW Government.

The Connecting Seniors grant program has awarded funding to 21 organisations across NSW for initiatives that will help older people stay connected.

The recipients include 16 not-for-profit organisations and five local councils, with initiatives ranging from choirs and intergenerational learning projects to social events for LGBTQ+ seniors and cultural programs for Aboriginal Elders.

For example, one recipient Touched by Olivia has received $30,000 to fund a paid ‘Connector’ who works with the Council, local businesses and community groups to connect those needing support with services and activities in their area. Its Community Circles bring seniors together for social activities, helping beat social isolation and loneliness.

More than half of the projects will support seniors living in regional NSW and about one-third will assist Aboriginal people over 50 and seniors with disability.

The Connecting Seniors grant program builds on previous grants, which have been proven to reduce social isolation for thousands of seniors in NSW.

It delivers on the Ageing Well in NSW: Seniors Strategy 2021-2031, with the Government committed to creating a more inclusive community and addressing isolation and loneliness.

For more information about the grants program and the full list of recipients, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/connecting-seniors-grant-program

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

“These grants support activities which can provide a social lifeline for seniors, especially those who live alone.

“As our population ages, we want to make sure we provide our seniors with opportunities to socialise while enjoying engaging experiences.

“Congratulations to all the grant recipients; I’m looking forward to seeing your activities in action!”

Touched by Olivia Founding Director John Perkins said:

“Our Community Circles program helps connect isolated or lonely seniors with social opportunities, support and services in their area and it’s been a huge success where we trialled it in the Southern Highlands.

“This funding will allow us to expand the program in Canada Bay LGA so we can assist more seniors in need. Whether that’s by running social board game sessions at ConcordLibrary, connecting locals from different cultural backgrounds or simply getting groceries for elderly residents who don’t have support.”