Buckhorn Community Centre receives provincial funding to expand senior programs
The Buckhorn Community Centre (BCC) will receive up to $55,000 annually through Ontario’s Seniors Active Living Centre (SALC) Program.
Peterborough–Kawartha MPP Dave Smith announced the funding during a Seniors’ Expo at the BCC, which marked the official launch of its new SALC programming.
“The new Seniors Centre at the Buckhorn Community Centre is a game-changer for our seniors, and I couldn’t be more excited,” said Smith. “It’s designed to give every senior in our community the chance to stay vibrant, active, and socially connected. These Senior Active Living Centres are truly the heart of our community, ensuring our seniors remain healthy, engaged, and close to home.”
The SALC Program supports activities that promote active and healthy living, social engagement and learning for older adults. Ontario’s Minister for Seniors and Accessibility, Raymond Cho, said, “Seniors Active Living Centres are helping to protect the well-being of seniors by ensuring they have more opportunities than ever to stay connected, active, and engaged in their communities. We are honoured to support the Buckhorn Community Centre for offering programs, activities and events for seniors to flourish and live with dignity and independence.”
The BCC launched its SALC program at the Expo with information and registration for new offerings including beginner pole walking, gentle yoga, bridge, Tech Tuesdays, martial arts, pattern partner dancing, and more.
Terry Lambshead, mayor of the Municipality of Trent Lakes, called the BCC “the champion in providing a high quality of life for seniors in Trent Lakes,” and added: “Through the received funding, the Centre will be able to expand their current programming to provide greater access to diverse and engaging activities for seniors. We recognize and commend the impact the BCC has had for both our residents and visitors throughout the years, and we look forward to seeing their programming flourish and support Trent Lakes in being a great place to live and visit.”
Board president Margaret Roberts said the funding reflects the community’s changing demographics. “The demographics in the two municipalities have changed over the years, and we pride ourselves on finding new ways to provide our clients with appropriate and engaging programming,” she stated. “The Senior Active Living Centre funding will allow us to dedicate funds to the specific interests and needs of those in their senior years, while including family members and neighbours who may be younger in intergenerational activities and programs. This encourages social interaction on the part of all our participants as well as the instructors and volunteers, thus looking after the wellness of the community and its residents.”
Marilyn Damant, a member and volunteer at the BCC, said the centre has had a major impact on her life. “The Buckhorn Community Centre & it’s many activities for seniors is an integral part of my life. I attend as many as possible. It has improved my endurance, flexibility & stamina. I have made many new friends over the years which I greatly value.”
The Buckhorn Community Centre was established in 1978 as a charitable, not-for-profit organization. Its mission is “to be the cultural centre of our community, providing activities, events and programs to meet our community’s social and recreational needs.” For more information, visit buckhorncommunitycentre.com.
By Freq 90.5/Oldies 96.7 News staff
