Sundre will be one of five rural communities where a new transportation program will be available for seniors.
Alberta’s government, in partnership with Healthy Aging Alberta, announced a three-year project will see local community organizations and their partners deliver innovative, accessible and assisted transportation services to older adults in their communities.
Through an initial $1.1-million investment, seniors in Edson, Fox Creek, Oyen, Sundre and the Municipal District of Smoky River will be able to access more transportation options. Seniors will be able to rely on more frequent trips being available, new routes for out-of-town services and additional vehicles for increased options.
“It is important for seniors to live independently in their communities for as long as possible. This funding will strengthen transportation in rural communities, providing seniors with easier access to health care, grocery stores, socialization and so much more,” said Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services Jason Nixon, in a statement.
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Sundre will receive $147,504 of the $1.1 million; the Municipal District of Smoky River will get $286,933; Edson receives $275,660; Oyen gets $242,000; and Fox Creek gets $185,045.
In early 2024, interested community-based organizations, Family and Community Support Services offices and municipalities will be invited to submit expressions of interest to be part of the next phase of the project, which will support up to 20 programs across Alberta.
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“Increased availability of accessible and affordable transportation in rural Alberta will directly impact older adults’ ability to age well in their homes and communities of choice. This is an excellent example of government and community working collaboratively to identify needs and solutions to support aging in the right place,” said Karen McDonald, provincial director and community leadership council chair of Healthy Aging Alberta (United Way of Calgary and Area), and executive director of Sage Seniors Association.
Alberta’s seniors population is projected to grow from 735,000 (as of Dec. 31, 2022) to more than one million by 2035, at which point more than 50 per cent of seniors will be over age 75.