Marilyn Boxwell
Debbie Sharp, a representative of a proposed project which is designed for seniors residing within Nakusp and surrounding communities, contacted me recently.
“Nakusp and Area Better at Home — Rural and Remote Pilot Project” is an initiative intended to look at ways of best delivering various helping services to those aged 65 and over where there is a need.
Nakusp has been selected as one of five communities within our area, which has been identified to participate (one of about 60 in B.C. so far), according to organizers. Funded by the B.C. Government and managed by The United Way of the Lower Mainland, its overall purpose is to provide non-medical and simple support services to help older individuals live longer within their own homes while remaining connected to their community.
Communities who may wish to participate are selected by speaking with seniors themselves and also non-profit organizations, which serve seniors as well as others who are knowledgeable about their needs. One important consideration is the number of vulnerable older persons in the community who would benefit.
In general, programs can receive funding for the first year of operation for start-up purposes, and for service delivery. Once established, the annual grant sum may change according to the numbers being served and the type of services delivered.
As to the cost to clients, service fees are established on an income-based sliding scale. This ensures that services are made available free of charge for low-income seniors and market rate for seniors whose income is above the B.C. average.
“I would like us to sit down and really look at what would be best for the seniors of the area,” said organizer Debbie Sharp. “This is an opportunity to build on existing assets, strengthen partnerships and enhance current capacities. It would be a wonderful achievement if we could look at creating something that will strengthen the community to be able to support seniors in the long run.”
Those interested in learning more about the program and the eligibility criteria as well as service delivery standards which are required, are invited to attend the first information meeting on Monday, Feb. l6.
Additional stakeholders meetings take place from Feb. 16-18.
For more information, including time and location of meetings, call Ken Livingstone at 250-265-3241.
