Seniors of Temora Shire are set to benefit from a new program run by the Temora Shire Council which is designed to keep them socially connected with friends, family and the community.
The program named Learning – Laughing – Loving, will deliver an opportunity for up to 30 participants a month to come together at the new Temora Arts Centre and try a creative activity at no expense, thanks to funding from the NSW Government.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has congratulated the Temora Shire Council on being awarded funding support for the initiative.
“I’m proud the Temora community has stepped up to promote new activities which will empower our local senior citizens to stay connected,” Ms Cooke said.
“Providing this opportunity will support those involved to build lasting relationships and shows that we value their important place in our region as role models, carers and volunteers.”
Ms Cooke said the Learning – Laughing – Loving program will provide Temora seniors with the chance to gain new skills, hear information from service providers and make new connections in a safe and inclusive environment, with a morning or afternoon tea included.
Mayor of Temora Shire Council, Cr Rick Firman said seniors have been and always will be extremely special members of our community.
“This program is our way of being able to give something back to them in return for all they have given us,” Cr Firman said.
“Thanks to the hard work of our wonderful State Member and the NSW Government, this tremendous initiative recognises the fact that we stand on the shoulders of our precious seniors.”
A public exhibition of the group’s collective creative works will be showcased in December this year to celebrate and recognise their achievements whilst in the program.
Minister for Seniors Mark Coure said 24 local councils and community groups have received a share in $600,000 to run programs designed to reduce social isolation among seniors.
“Even without the challenges of COVID-19 – no one likes to be alone or feel disconnected from their community, especially not our seniors,” Mr Coure said.
“This funding is about helping create environments where people can come together, meet new people and, above all, enjoy themselves in a social environment.
“These programs are helping us achieve exactly that, whether it be helping seniors learn a new skill, connect with like-minded people or even rekindle their passion for a previous hobby,” he said.
Grants of up to $60,000 were on offer for NSW councils or organisations running community-focused, meaningful activities. They must run until December 2022. The projects actively seek out socially isolated NSW residents aged 65 and older, and/or Aboriginal people aged 50 and over, and/or priority target groups.
For more information on the program and recipients, visit: www.facs.nsw.gov.au/inclusion/seniors/reducing-social-isolation-grant-program
