Thessalon Funding Announcement Seniors Grants
March 28, 2026
MPP Bill Rosenberg announces $64,800 in total funding for Seniors in The Town of Thessalon here in Algoma-Manitoulin
NEWS March 27, 2026
Algoma-Manitoulin: The Ontario government has invested $16,600 dollars for the Splash Social, Aquafit and Social Program in Thessalon along with $48,420 dollars each year for Thessalon’s Active Seniors Program as part of a three-year program.
“Congratulations on receiving the Seniors Community Grant of $16,600 and on your initiative to bring a pool-based fitness and social program to an area that is expanding opportunities for seniors to enjoy aquatic activities,” said Bill Rosenberg, MPP, Algoma Manitoulin. “This program offers tremendous social, mental, and physical benefits by creating opportunities for participants to stay active while building meaningful connections. Providing both a welcoming space and transportation ensures that seniors can easily take part, whether with friends or while meeting new acquaintances. Your efforts to expand access to inclusive and health-promoting programming are truly commendable, and this initiative will make a positive and lasting impact on the community.”
Seniors Community Grants Program are designed to help seniors increase independence, reduce social isolation and create positive connections.
“The Seniors Community Grant has created opportunities for safe, accessible exercise through aquafit and lane swimming, with transportation provided to help participants attend. The program has also brought people together, allowing participants from Thessalon and neighbouring North Shore communities to connect and socialize,” said Jordan Bird, Mayor, Town of Thessalon. “It has received an overwhelmingly positive response, with sessions filling quickly and participants expressing strong interest in continuing and expanding the program. Participants leave each session feeling refreshed and fulfilled.”
“On behalf of the province, I am pleased to congratulate you on the success of the Thessalon Active Seniors Program and on receiving your grant of $48,420 from the Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility. The new Thessalon Active Seniors Program has been a great addition for our seniors,” continued MPP Rosenberg. “It will offer seniors from the entire community the opportunity to stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected through various activities.”
“This funding opportunity has allowed Thessalon to expand its seniors’ programming from a monthly social gathering to regular programming that offers opportunities for recreation, socialization, and physical activity,” added Mayor Bird. “While programming is designed for individuals aged 55+, it also includes intergenerational activities that foster a sense of belonging and community. An educational component has also been incorporated, helping seniors learn about and access local resources while strengthening our collaboration with community agencies.”
“Premier Ford and our entire government are proud to protect our seniors and ensure they have the kinds of supports to keep them fit, active, healthy, socially connected, close to their homes and in their communities, like the lovely Town of Thessalon,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “Thanks to your great MPP, Bill Rosenberg, this Seniors Community Grant and the Seniors Active Living Centres will be an amazing way for seniors in Algoma-Manitoulin to learn new skills, get fit, enjoy group activities and stay connected to their neighbours and friends. Congratulations.”
Thessalon along with nine other Seniors Active Living Centres in Algoma-Manitoulin received a total of $446,202.00 and is one of the up to 100 new SALC programs that opened across the province in 2025 to help improve seniors’ quality of life and build community engagement.
Algoma-Manitoulin SALC locations include:
- Wawa Goose Seniors Club
- Manitouwadge Golden Age Centre
- Chapleau Cedar Grove Elderly Persons Centre
- Elliot Lake Renaissance Active Living Centre
- Espanola Senior Citizens Club
- Wikwemikong Unceded Reserve SALC
- Central Manitoulin Seniors Active Living Centre
- Township of Billings Senior Program in Kagawong
- Gore Bay Elderly Persons Centre
- Town of Thessalon Active Seniors Program
QUICK FACTS
- Ontario has expanded the Seniors Active Living Centres (SALCs) to over 400 sites to increase access to services that connect seniors to activities and programs close to home.
- The centres promote wellness, encourage social interaction, and combat ageism to help seniors stay active, independent and engaged within their communities.
- This annual funding is ongoing, providing quarterly payments to these communities to provide various programs and specialized clinics for health and social well-being.
- For this year SALCs can request up to $55,000 for maintenance and operating costs, an increase from the previous maximum of $50,000 in 2024 and up from $42,700 in base funding from 2023.
- Ontario funds over 100 Seniors Active Living Fairs expected to take place this year across the province that provides more opportunities for seniors to learn about supports and resources in their community.
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