The Manitoba government has chosen March of Dimes Canada (MODC) to provide services under the recently announced Manitoba Seniors Home Modification Grant program that will allow older Manitobans to safely age in their homes and communities for as long as they choose.
“Manitoba seniors have told us that they want to remain in their homes and communities for as long as they can,” said Seniors and Long-term Care Minister Scott Johnston. “By providing this new home modification grant program, our government is respecting their wishes and ensuring safe, inclusive and accessible communities where seniors can age safely and comfortably.”
With an annual budget of $1.5 million, the program will be officially launched in mid-October. Administered by MODC, it will provide financial assistance for eligible home modifications to seniors 65 and older and/or family members who have seniors living with them, with a household income of $60,000 or less.
MODC is a leading national charity committed to championing equity, empowering ability, and creating real change to help more than six million Canadians living with disabilities live their lives as fully as possible, the minister noted, adding that its programs help Canadians identify and access the tools they may need to promote independent living in their homes.
“We’re very excited to deliver the vital Manitoba Seniors Home Modification Grant program,” said Jason Lye, vice-president, community support services, March of Dimes Canada. “In partnership with the Manitoba government, we’ll help seniors make transformative changes to their houses so that they can live independently and age at home with the support they need to thrive. That’s what most people want – and it’s what this program will make possible for more seniors across the province.”
The program will provide grants of up to $5,000 ($6,500 in rural and remote areas) to assist low- to moderate-income seniors with funding for basic home modifications that are essential for daily living activities and support people living at home as they age.
Home modifications include common supports for people living at home as they age including:
- adaptations that increase safety; and
- accessibility improvements for daily activities, such as ramps, curbless showers and increased lighting.
The program will help reduce or eliminate physical barriers that create safety risks, through modifications, adaptations, and devices that enable seniors with restrictions to remain in their homes and age in place longer, the minister noted.
Applicants can apply for a grant every three years, to a lifetime maximum of $15,000.
