OLIVER: New Horizons program benefits Canadian seniors

Throughout their careers, seniors have helped build our country, and today they continue to make important contributions to our society.

Our government recognizes their contribution and considers their financial security to be a top priority. The result is $2.8 billion in annual tax relief for Canadian seniors and pensioners. Indeed, today Canada boasts one of the smallest low-income rates for seniors among industrialized countries.

Through pension income-splitting, seniors and pensioners can now allocate up to half of their eligible pension income to their spouse or common-law partner. This reform means a single senior can earn at least $20,054, and a couple can earn at least $40,108, before paying federal income tax.

This year we are expanding the New Horizons for Seniors Program. The initiative will encourage organizations to help seniors make a difference in the lives of others, and in their communities.

Projects funded by this program must be led or inspired by seniors and address one or more of the program’s five objectives: volunteering, mentoring, expanding awareness of elder abuse, social participation, and capital assistance. Organizations pursuing these goals can apply for up to $25,000 in grant funding.

Last year, more than 1,770 New Horizons community-based projects, worth $33.4 million, were approved. Economic Action Plan 2014 is increasing the funding available from $45 million to $50 million annually. To date, the NHSP has supported about 12,200 projects in over 1,000 communities across Canada.

We believe New Horizons for Seniors is vital to enriching the quality of life for Canadian seniors. Through this program we are helping protect seniors from elder abuse, promoting volunteerism and encouraging seniors to stay involved in their communities.

Our government is seeking applications for projects that will help Canadian seniors utilize their leadership abilities, skills and experience to continue to make a difference in their communities. With more funding available this year and going forward, we have a greater opportunity to support our seniors through this fantastic program.

The call for proposals will close on Friday, July 4, 2014.

For more information and the details for submitting proposals, visit www.edsc.gc.ca.