Province invests $100K in seniors’ centre expansion

The NDP-led Manitoba government is investing $100,000 through the From the Ground Up — Safe, Healthy Communities for All program to support the expansion of the Killarney New Horizons Seniors’ Centre.

The investment would ensure older adults in the community have access to safe, accessible and welcoming spaces that promote social connection, active living and overall well-being, Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard stated in a press release issued on Saturday.

“For decades, the Killarney New Horizons Seniors’ Centre has played a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for older adults by offering programs that support physical health, mental stimulation, creativity, education and social engagement,” Simard said.

“Our government is proud to support an expansion that strengthens this important work and is a reflection of our commitment to building safe, healthy communities where older adults can stay active, connected and supported.”

The centre currently offers a wide range of activities and collaborates closely with community partners such as Killarney-Turtle Mountain Services for Seniors, the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba and Shamrock Billiards, it added.

The release stated that the facility is made available at affordable rental rates for family gatherings, celebrations of life, staff events and training seminars. The centre welcomes seniors from communities within a 150‑kilometre radius for tournaments and special events.

The facility’s president, Barbara Case, said the centre is “thankful” for the support of the Manitoba government and the community in helping to expand the facilities.

“The New Horizons Seniors’ Centre is a testament to the ongoing resilience of Killarney’s older adults to keep seniors engaged and active. Our goal is to have the expansion completed sometime in 2027, which will mark the facility’s 50th anniversary,” Case said.

With a growing senior population in Killarney, the building expansion is essential to meet increasing demand, Simard noted, adding that the project includes new safety and accessibility features such as electronic doors, a wheelchair‑accessible washroom, improved temperature control and expanded foyer space, the release stated.

The Manitoba government remains committed to supporting safe, healthy and inclusive communities across the province by investing in infrastructure that strengthens social connection and enhances quality of life for residents of all ages, the minister said.

The From the Ground Up — Safe Healthy Communities for All program is a Manitoba government grant program. It provides up to $100,000 to help non-profits, municipalities and northern affairs councils fund community revitalization, youth programs and capital space improvements.

» The Brandon Sun