September 29, 2017 - The Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program awarded the City of Thunder Bay a grant to empower seniors to share their knowledge, skills and experience with others and enable seniors to age in their homes confidently and comfortably.

The GIANTs (Grand Individuals Aging with Neighbours in Thunder Bay) project, coordinated by Age Friendly Thunder Bay, focused on addressing social isolation among seniors by encouraging them to talk with other seniors about aging at home and in their neighbourhood. 

Over the last months Age Friendly GIANTs has informed, educated, entertained and connected seniors through a variety of projects including gathering tips and hosting a digital storytelling workshop.

A sold-out GIANTs showcase will be taking place on Thursday, Oct. 5, 1:30 pm, at Magnus Theatre. The showcase will feature digital stories, tips, "˜behind the stories', and key note speaker Arlene Etchen, Knowledge Transfer Specialist, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, who will speak on low-cost modifications to make to a home for aging well.

Due to the popularity of this event, screenings of the showcase will take place at the Waverley Library on Monday, Oct. 16, from 1 to 3 pm, and at the Mary J.L. Black Library on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 1 to 3 pm. These screenings are free and no registration is required. Everyone is welcome to attend.
 
 "Developing and communicating a stronger plan to help seniors age in their own home was indicated by seniors as a priority for Age Friendly Thunder Bay to address in the coming years," said Councillor Rebecca Johnson, Chair of Age Friendly Thunder Bay. "This project addressed one of the action items as indicated on the recent Age Friendly Thunder Bay Community Action Plan."

With nearly 20 per cent of Thunder Bay's population aged 65 plus, Age Friendly GIANTs helps to recognize the contribution that seniors make to our community. Many seniors live in one-person households and in single detached housing, according to the 2016 Census. It is important to assist seniors to ensure a dignified and secure life. 

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Contact: Nancy Angus, Age Friendly Thunder Bay, 627-3564 or nangus@shaw.ca