Seniors across British Columbia will have a hand in connecting those at risk of homelessness and finding housing and other life-saving mental health supports, thanks to a provincial investment.
The Government of British Columbia has provided the Seniors Services Society of BC with a grant of $ 720,000 for its Seniors Housing Information and Navigation Ease (SHINE) program to connect seniors with housing services, financial, mental health and addictions support. The funding will allow SHINE to deliver enhanced services to Nanaimo and Vancouver, as well as to communities in the Interior and the North.
“Seniors and seniors in our communities may feel particularly isolated during these difficult times, ”said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “To help seniors access much-needed housing, mental health and addiction support, our government is honored to help fund the work of SHINE. ”
Without the services provided by SHINE, many seniors across the province may be at risk of poverty, homelessness and discrimination. SHINE facilitates timely access and navigation to appropriate housing services and supports for seniors.
“We are extremely grateful for the funding from the Department of Mental Health and Addictions as it could not have come at a more urgent time,” said Alison Silgardo, CEO of the Seniors Services Society of BC. “COVID-19 has increased the risk and vulnerability of our seniors, and this provincial grant will allow us to continue supporting seniors, including expanding the mental health and addictions services needed in these difficult times. “
Research has shown that when seniors can age in a residence of their choice, they are less likely to face mental health and addiction issues and tend to have a higher standard of living. The services offered by the SHINE program are essential to help fill the gaps in access to supports for mental health, addictions and housing.
“The fact that I didn’t feel isolated and that someone could offer me support and help when I needed it desperately was and still is so appreciated,” said Bertha Horsfield, a resident from Nanaimo who found herself caring for her sick husband in need of housing. “They are very familiar with resources in various areas that a senior may not be familiar with. And it’s just heartwarming to know that there is “someone” there. Without their help and support, I don’t know where I would be.
With provincial funding, the next steps for the SHINE program include expanding housing navigation, increasing regional collaboration, and building community resilience.
Quote:
Adam Walker, MPP for Parksville-Qualicum –
“Seniors often face barriers when trying to find resources for housing, mental health and addiction support. Finding support can be intimidating for older people; that’s why organizations like the Senior Services Society of BC and their SHINE program are essential in supporting seniors and ensuring they receive the care and help they deserve.
Mable Elmore, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors and Long-Term Care –
“Seniors are such an important part of our communities, and they should all be able to age with dignity and comfort in the communities they know and love. Together with program partners, SHINE is an important way to help seniors feel safe, supported and connected throughout their golden years.
Deborah Hollins, Executive Director, Nanaimo Family Life Association –
“SHINE works in our community because the need for seniors to find, obtain and maintain suitable housing is a growing concern in Nanaimo. The SHINE Project alleviates some of the pressure that individuals face as they navigate through the often numerous agencies and programs to find what they need.
Anthony Kupferschmidt, Executive Director, Langley Senior Resources Society –
“It can be incredibly intimidating for an older person to find and keep suitable accommodation, especially when facing eviction or having limited financial resources. SHINE helps prevent seniors from falling through the cracks of the housing system by enabling organizations like ours to provide the necessary navigation through the systems.
Fast facts:
- Data from the Canadian census (2019) show that 24.6% of people aged 65 and over live alone with little or no family or friends contact.
- The most common gaps identified are isolation, access to mental health services and connection to housing supports.
- Experiences such as retirement, loss of loved ones, isolation, physical or mental health issues, ageism, and insufficient income can all contribute to discrimination and marginalization of older adults.
Learn more:
For more information on SHINE, visit: https://www.seniorsservicessociety.ca/
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