Province Supports Seniors Program in Cumberland
The MLA for Cumberland North announced continued provincial support for the Cumberland Seniors Safety Society in a brief press gathering in Amherst today. In giving an additional 20 thousand dollars toward the program, Terry Farrell says, “Our government believes older adults are an asset.”
Ray Bristol is the coordinator of the program for Cumberland County. He says, “The program is a safety, information, and referral program for seniors 55 and up, and is offered free of charge.” Bristol has been travelling throughout the county to promote the program
The Deputy Minister of the Department of Seniors says, “The program got its start in Kentville following a rash of break-ins." Simon d’Entremont gave credit to the RCMP who developed an information program to show seniors how to protect themselves.
A Police and Seniors Safety Academy is currently underway in Oxford with 25 seniors attending. They meet each Tuesday morning till mid February.
The RCMP Community Policing Officer was all smiles at the event. Travise Dow plays a large role in the program, offering police advice and input to the seniors program and other community groups.
Cumberland's Seniors Safety Society has been supported by the province in recent years. Today's announcement of $20,000 is another instalment. d'Entremont says they are considering multi year funding so that such groups will not have to wait or wonder if they will have the resources to continue each year.
The senior's group offers a number of programs and resources. Bristol invites calls to 902-667-7484 or email bristorp@nshealth.ca.