Brampton – The community gathered onNov 14, 2025 at Century Gardens Recreation Centre in Brampton for a focused event led by Charmaine Williams, MPP for Brampton Centre, highlighting the key issues affecting seniors and providing valuable guidance on provincial funding opportunities available to senior-serving organizations.
In her opening remarks, MPP Williams emphasized that “our seniors have contributed so much to the fabric of this community; it is our duty to ensure they live with dignity, stay connected, and have access to the supports they need.” She thanked the organizations, volunteers, and community leaders in attendance and reaffirmed her commitment to addressing concerns such as social isolation, rising living costs, digital literacy barriers, and access to wellness resources for older adults in Brampton.
The seminar featured a detailed and practical presentation by Teddy Aberra, Regional Development Advisor, who guided participants through the entire process of applying for grants — from eligibility and documentation to successful submission strategies. Attendees were shown exactly how to prepare applications for the provincial Seniors Community Grant Program and other funding options that help create meaningful programming for adults aged 55+.
The event spotlighted Ontario’s Seniors Community Grant Program, which provides:
- Funding from $1,000 to $25,000 for community-based projects that enhance social inclusion, reduce isolation, promote active living, and support mental and physical wellbeing for seniors.
- Support for over 330 community projects annually, with nearly $7 million invested by the province to help seniors live healthy, connected, and independent lives.
- Opportunities for not-for-profit groups, senior clubs, cultural associations, social organizations, and volunteer groups to apply.
These grants enable groups to run workshops, fitness programs, social gatherings, mental-health sessions, digital-skills training, transportation support, and many other activities designed to uplift seniors.
As Chairperson of the Flower City Friends Club, Gian Paul expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Minister for hosting this timely initiative.
“On behalf of our senior members and volunteers, I sincerely thank Minister Charmaine Williams for bringing this important seminar to our community. When seniors receive the knowledge and tools to access funding, it strengthens the entire community,” he said.
In her closing remarks, MPP Williams reaffirmed her dedication to ensuring seniors’ needs remain a priority:
“This seminar is just one of many steps we are taking to support our older adults. I encourage every eligible group to explore the Seniors Community Grant Program and reach out for help if needed. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive, and age-friendly Brampton.”
She concluded by thanking all participants for their engagement and commitment to senior wellbeing.
About MPP Charmaine Williams
Charmaine Williams is the Member of Provincial Parliament for Brampton Centre and a dedicated advocate for seniors, community safety, inclusion, and family well-being.
About Flower City Friends Club (FCFC)
Flower City Friends Club is a Brampton-based not-for-profit serving seniors through cultural programs, social gatherings, health seminars, recreation, and community support initiatives.