Feds support Sea to Sky Seniors Lunch and Learn project

Funding from the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) will continue to fund the Sea to Sky Seniors Lunch and Learn Project.

This project, operated by Sea to Sky Community Services, supports elders and seniors throughout the Corridor by providing connection and community at local events. “Seniors are the fastest growing segment of the population in the Sea to Sky Corridor, and they’re facing some big challenges regarding isolation and loneliness,” says Jaye Russell, Executive Director of Sea to Sky Community Services. “Research tell us that isolation is linked to both physical and cognitive decline. We are grateful for the NHSP funding because it provides Sea to Sky Community Services with the opportunity to improve health outcomes for seniors by creating social connection and building community throughout the Corridor.”

Sea to Sky Community Services offers events in both Squamish and Pemberton equally, allowing clients to connect with others through lunchtime or afternoon tea sessions that provide food and guest speakers.

The events provide learning and information to seniors in a social setting. Topics will vary to appeal to a broad audience and could include sessions on nutrition, financial security, physical fitness, local culture, gardening, local ecology, and emotional wellness.

Last week, Patrick Weiler, Member of Parliament for West Vancouver-Sunshine CoastSea to Sky Country, joined Sea to Sky Community Services staff at our most recent Lunch and Learn event to understand, first-hand, how the $23,000 in NHSP funding will benefit the community.

“Clients who attended today let us know that gathering for food and simply keeping in touch with the seniors in our community is so appreciated,” shares Russell. “We have another client who has previously shared how his wife, who lives with dementia, lights up on session days. Each time we host an event, we see the positive impact this funding has for those in our communities.”

The Sea to Sky Lunch and Learn Project is part of Sea to Sky Community Services’ Better at Home Program, which supports older adults in staying active, connected, and engaged in their community.

The Better at Home program offers light housekeeping, transportation to and from appointments, grocery shopping, friendly visiting, minor home repairs, yard work, and social gatherings.