Québec ami des Aînés program: A $15 Million investment for senior community initiatives
Tashi Farmilo
The Québec ami des Aînés (QADA) program is making a significant impact on the lives of seniors by addressing a wide range of needs through national, local, and regional projects. With a total funding of $5.4 million, the 16 national projects are tackling crucial issues such as social isolation, access to information, and encouraging the involvement of seniors in society. These efforts are particularly important in the face of challenges like the social isolation intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, the program is supporting 73 local and regional projects with a total of $9.7 million. These initiatives aim to strengthen the community support for seniors, enabling them to participate in social and recreational activities. This not only improves their mental health and well-being but also fosters intergenerational connections, creating more inclusive and resilient communities.
In the Outaouais region, the QADA program is making a notable difference. Projects such as the revitalization of senior citizen groups in Les Collines by the Services for Elders of the Hills, and the "Intergenerational sparks!" project by the Outaouais Seniors and Retirees Consultation Table, are just a few examples of how the program is enhancing the social participation and well-being of seniors in this area. Other initiatives like the "Coffee chat" by the Papineau Regional Committee for the Third Age and the collective kitchen by the Hare Food Bank are also contributing to the reduction of senior isolation and the promotion of active aging in the Outaouais region.
This ongoing initiative is part of Quebec's broader efforts to address the challenges of an aging population, as outlined in the 2018-2023 action plan "A Quebec for all ages" and the government policy "Aging and living together, at home, in your community, in Quebec." The aim is to improve the quality of life for seniors and encourage their active participation in society.
The $15.1 million investment in the QADA program for 2023-2024 reflects the Quebec government's commitment to the well-being and inclusion of seniors. This initiative not only meets the immediate needs of the elderly but also lays the groundwork for a more equitable society for future generations.
Minister Sonia Bélanger expressed her enthusiasm for the program, saying, "It is with great pleasure that I announce, as part of the Québec ami des Aînés program, more than $15 million dedicated to various projects promoting the social inclusion of seniors and active aging. I thank all the organizations that have submitted innovative and impactful projects for their community."
Photo caption: The QADA program is significantly enhancing the well-being and social participation of seniors in the Outaouais region through various projects, including revitalizing senior citizen groups, fostering intergenerational connections, and reducing isolation.
Photo credit: Courtesy of Québec ami des Aînés
