Moncton councillors have agreed to fund more programming for seniors in the city.
Council approved two proposals worth nearly $50,000 at last week’s regular meeting.
Recreation Manager Monica Tucker said it includes $28,000 for the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 6 to offer programming through December.
“They’re offering 23.5 hours of programming [per week]. This includes fitness classes and social programs,” Tucker told council.
The money is in addition to the $49,000 council approved for the legion branch to cover programming from February through August.
Council also agreed to give DansEncorps just over $20,000 to pilot 19 hours of programming per week for two weeks.
“A lot more social programming than the fitness classes. Three hours of fitness classes and about 16 hours of social space that they could use,” said Tucker.
City staff said discussions have also taken place with the Moncton Library, Resurgo Place and the YMCA, who all expressed interest in collaborating to expand senior programs.
A staff report to council noted that more partnerships are anticipated soon. The city currently has partnerships with 15 organizations
Many seniors have been looking for a place of their own since programming ended at the Moncton Lions Community Centre. The facility is currently being used as a drop-in and emergency centre for the homeless.
City staff said the province continues to lease the building for that purpose and it is unclear at this point what their long-term vision may be.
Meanwhile, council also approved the hiring of a community development officer for seniors and youth this year rather than next to help minimize any gap in seniors programming as of Jan. 1.
