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Province renews funding for seniors housing navigation program in Nanaimo

SHINE program supports seniors facing mental health and addiction challenges
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The Seniors Services Society of B.C. accepted a $809,000 grant from the province to continue to support the Senior Housing Information and Navigation Ease program which will be distributed to seven community partners including the Nanaimo Family Life Association. (Stock photo)

Seniors living with mental health and addiction challenges who are at risk of becoming homeless in Nanaimo and other B.C. communities are eligible for additional support from the province.

The Seniors Services Society of B.C accepted a $809,000 grant from the provincial government for its Senior Housing Information and Navigation Ease program which has 10 community partners, including the Nanaimo Family Life Association.

“SHINE was envisioned as a city-specific, senior-centred network that balances prevention and responsiveness in addressing widening gaps in the systems supporting older adults,” said Alison Silgardo, CEO of Seniors Services Society of B.C. in a news release. “This includes housing, mental health, addictions, attachment to health, exit from health, technology, access to finance, food insecurity, and supports to help them age in place. What gives me hope is that key stakeholders are coming together to create a continuum for older adults.”

The program helps seniors access mental health, addiction and financial assistance along with providing housing navigation and advocating for seniors in unfair rental disputes.

In the release, Nanaimo MLA Sheila Malcolmson said she was glad the province is continuing funding the program.

“We all want seniors to live their best possible lives. Nanaimo Family Life helps break through isolation and grief, to help connect seniors with housing and mental health supports,” she said.

Services will be delivered by other partners in Langley, Kelowna, Surrey, Vancouver’s west end, Prince George and New Westminster. New partners will be starting up the program in Victoria, Richmond and Penticton this year.

READ ALSO: Federal NDP calling for funding for non-profits to be able to buy and rent out apartments


bailey.seymour@nanaimobulletin.com

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