Additional $5 million announced to further support seniors in British Columbia

April 5th, 2013

United Way of the Lower Mainland has received an additional $5 million from the province of British Columbia to further enhance the ground-breaking seniors” program Better at Home. Better at Home offers B.C. seniors help with a variety of non-medical services to assist them in living independently in their own homes.

The new funding is provided by the Provincial Health Services Authority and brings total provincial support for the Better at Home program to $20 million.

“This new funding will provide continuity for the Better at Home program and allow us to expand services to support even more seniors in staying in their own homes and communities longer,” said Minister of State for Seniors Ralph Sultan. “Seniors have told me that they value their independence and appreciate help with simple non-medical services such as grocery shopping or getting to appointments. Assistance with these simple services can make a big difference to their independence.”

Managed by United Way of the Lower Mainland, the program is currently underway or in development in close to 60 communities across British Columbia. The additional funding means that the program can expand to up to 68 communities.

“We are pleased that this funding will allow us to expand the program and offer a helping hand to even more B.C. seniors,” said Michael McKnight, President and CEO, United Way of the Lower Mainland. “The program supports our commitment to ensure that seniors can age with dignity and remain independent close to family and friends.”

Better at Home services are designed to complement existing community supports, including those offered by regional health authorities.

Please see the media release for more information on the additional $5 million from the province of B.C.

For a map of participating communities, visit www.betterathome.ca

Photo: (Left) Michael McKnight, President and CEO, United Way of the Lower Mainland, receives a plaque of appreciation from Minister of State for Seniors Ralph Sultan (right).