By the Hon. Uzoma Asagwara
As we celebrated Canada Day, many of us gathered with family, friends, neighbours, and community members to reflect on what makes Manitoba such a special place to call home.
Among our province’s greatest strengths are the seniors who helped build the communities we cherish today. Through their leadership, hard work, volunteerism, and care for others, older Manitobans have shaped our province for generations.
Our government believes every senior deserves to age with dignity, independence, and connection to their community. That’s why we are making targeted investments that help older Manitobans remain active, healthy, and supported close to home.
We know that aging in place is about much more than health care. It means having access to nutritious food, transportation, social connections, community programs, and the right supports when challenges arise.
This year, our government is investing an additional $250,000 in the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, bringing provincial support to $575,000 annually. This funding will help expand dementia education, caregiver supports, navigation services, and early intervention programs for seniors and families across Manitoba.
We are also increasing funding for Age & Opportunity by $100,000 annually, bringing provincial support to $267,000. This investment will strengthen elder abuse prevention and response services, particularly in rural and northern communities where seniors often face additional barriers to accessing help.
To improve community-based supports, we are providing $182,000 in ongoing funding to strengthen seniors’ resource and navigation services in Winnipeg. These funds include funding for programs provided by Black Seniors Support, Golden Rule Seniors Resource Centre and Pembina Active Living. These organizations help seniors access health care, community programs, social opportunities, and culturally responsive supports that reduce isolation and keep people connected.
Food security is another critical part of healthy aging. No senior should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from. That is why our government is proud to continue the Seniors Food Security Program through our partnership with Heart to Home. We are also working with Indigenous, rural, and northern organizations to ensure seniors across Manitoba can access nutritious food and the supports they need to remain healthy and independent.
Together, these investments reflect a simple but important belief: seniors deserve support not only when they need medical care, but throughout every aspect of their daily lives.
The work of supporting seniors belongs to all of us. Governments have a role to play, but so do families, neighbours, community organizations, and volunteers. Building age-friendly communities means creating places where older adults feel respected, included, and empowered to continue contributing their knowledge, experience, and leadership.
I encourage all Manitobans to take a moment to recognize the seniors in their lives. Reach out to a neighbour, spend time with a loved one, or simply take time to listen to the stories and experiences of those who helped build the Manitoba we know today.
Together, we can continue building a province where seniors are valued, supported, and able to thrive in the communities they call home.
The Hon. Uzoma Asagwara is the Minister of Health, Seniors and Longterm Care and Deputy Premier.