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Seniors to get technology to contact family and friends

This program will get 162 tablets, 24 smart televisions and 10 internet connectivity products, benefiting more than 1,300 seniors
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NEWS RELEASE
BARRIE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
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Funded by the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program, Connecting Seniors Through Technology aims to provide seniors in our area long-term care and retirement residences with the opportunity of receiving additional technology solutions for the use of their residents.

By enabling greater contact with family and friends, as well as opportunities to access recreation programming, physical fitness programming, personal development, online learning, cognitive aids and more, we keep those in isolation active and connected with their community. These devices can also provide for greater access to primary and secondary medical care, as our health care system looks to enhance virtual care options.

Organized by the Shift Government Project, and with the support of the Barrie Community Foundation and the YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka, this program will get 162 tablets, 24 smart televisions and 10 internet connectivity products into these homes, directly benefiting over 1300 seniors in these facilities. The technology was purchased from the Source, a national retailer headquartered in Barrie, at a discounted price, reflecting their commitment to this community and to supporting COVID-19 response efforts.

By working collaboratively across various sectors, partnering with government, private sector and not for profit sector to solve problems, this program demonstrates that we all have a role to play in supporting of our most vulnerable. “Today’s problems are complex and will most likely require complex solutions involving all sectors. The Shift Government Project, through its various initiatives, aims at collaboratively solving problems by addressing root cause issues. Sometimes the solution is as simple as a tablet, sometimes it requires more complicated design. This has been a wonderful collaboration, and I am so happy we have touched so many lives. We are thankful for this investment to support the well-being of our seniors by the Government of Canada” said Mayor Jeff Lehman.

“In the grip of the COVID-19 crisis, Barrie Community Foundation looks for those partnerships delivering the right help, to the right people, at the right time. This funding, implemented by the Shift Government Project, along with the YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka, will have a huge impact on isolated seniors.” Laurier McFarlane, Chair Barrie Community Foundation

“The Y is committed to finding new and innovative ways to support people of all ages in our community. We are thrilled to work with the Shift Government Project, Barrie Community Foundation and the Source on this important initiative for our community's seniors." Rob Armstrong, CEO YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka

“While physical distancing is essential to protecting seniors from COVID-19, it risks isolating them from their community. That is why the Government of Canada is proud to work with United Way Canada to help support the needs of seniors during this difficult time. By using local expertise, this funding will help provide support tailored to the unique, local needs of seniors across the country. As we work together to flatten the curve and slow the spread of the virus, the government is supporting Canadians every step of the way.” The Honorable Deb Schulte, Minister of Seniors

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