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Manitoba increases funding for seniors’ health and social programs

Manitoba Seniors and Long-term Care Minister Scott Johnston announced on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, that the government will be spending upwards of $14 million annually by 2023-24 on the Self and Family Managed Care program.

“The seniors strategy is a guide for the Manitoba government to address the challenges faced by some older adults, their families and caregivers, to support all Manitobans in their aging journeys, and to value the significant contributions older adults have made and continue to make in our province,” Johnston said.

Manitoba seniors will have improved access to the SFMC program, which offers flexibility and autonomy to directly arrange home-care services that support seniors in maintaining independence.

“Throughout our extensive, provincewide public consultations on the seniors strategy, one of the key themes we heard is that older Manitobans value being able to live independent, vibrant and fulfilling lives in their own homes for as long as safely possible.”

The program’s annual funding is increasing by $12.6 million in 2022-23 and a further $1.3 million in 2023-24 to $13.9 million. The increased funding will enhance benefits for 1,200 current clients and expand capacity to service more clients.

Palliative care services are receiving $1.3 million in 2023-24 to support the first phase of expanding Manitoba palliative care services, starting in Southern Health-Santé Sud. The expansion will enhance access to palliative care for people affected by life-limiting illness at home.

Rainbow Resource Centre’s Over the Rainbow program is receiving $100,000 in 2022-23 and $200,000 in ongoing funding in 2023-24. This program serves 55-plus seniors who identify as 2SLGBTQ+ and is aimed at reducing social isolation while enabling 2SLGBTQ+ seniors to age in place in a supported, community environment.

Habitat for Humanity Manitoba is receiving $450,000 in 2022-23 to accelerate its ability to modify, renovate or rehabilitate existing housing for older Manitobans. The program is designed to assist low-income homeowners who require assistance in home modifications they cannot afford and who may not have the ability to co-ordinate services themselves. The program will help seniors stay in their homes longer, the minister noted.

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