Seniors in Canada have a number of grant options available to cover medical, housing and even education expenses.
Seniors in Canada have a number of grant options available to cover medical, housing and even education expenses. Some grants are also directed toward community organizations that provide programming to seniors. Grants offer financial support and opportunities for seniors who may live on a fixed income and who otherwise couldn't afford increases to their property taxes, unexpected health problems or access to seniors' programs.
Senior Homeowners' Property Tax Grant
The Senior Homeowners' Property Tax Grant is an annual program that provides financial assistance to low- to middle-income seniors who own their own home to help offset property tax costs. For seniors living in Ontario, the grants are administered through the Canada Revenue Agency and accessed by submitting Form ON479, Ontario Credits and Senior Homeowners' Property Tax Grant along with their personal income tax return. Once the personal income tax return and Notice of Assessment information have been reviewed, it takes 4 to 6 weeks for a check to arrive in the mail, or sooner if direct deposit is selected. Eligible seniors could receive a maximum of $500 in 2010.
Canada Revenue Agency
Ontario Ministry of Revenue
866-668-8297
rev.gov.on.ca
Grant for Students with Permanent Disabilities
While not exclusive to seniors, education grants are available to eligible seniors with permanent disabilities. The Government of Canada offers loans and grants to permanently disabled people seeking full- or part-time post-secondary education. To those eligible, grants of $2,000 per academic year are issued by the province or territory where the person lives. To be eligible, the senior must apply for a Canada Student Loan, be enrolled in a full- or part-time program and meet the criteria for students with permanent disabilities. The application must include proof of the disability, which may be a medical certificate, a psycho-educational assessment or other documentation demonstrating the need for disability assistance. Additional grants and financial assistance may be available for disabled students while studying to accommodate special living arrangements or equipment needs.
To apply for financial assistance in British Columbia:
Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development
Student Aid BC
Victoria, BC V8W 9H7
Canada
800-561-1818 (within Canada/US)
canlearn.ca
New Horizons for Seniors
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada provides grants through the New Horizons for Seniors Program to non-profit community organizations across Canada. The grants provide financial assistance for programs aimed at improving the quality of life for seniors and keeping them active and involved in the community. Annual grants of up to $25,000 are available through three programs: Community Participation and Leadership, Capital Assistance, and Elder Abuse Awareness. The Community Participation and Leadership Funding supports programs aimed at seniors being active in their communities. Capital Assistance Funding provides funds for upgrades to community facilities or equipment needs for seniors. Elder Abuse Awareness Funding supports programs that raise awareness and prevention of elder abuse. Applications can be submitted on line through their website.
New Horizons for Seniors Program
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
333 North River Road, 2A
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0L1
Canada
800-277-9914
hrsdc.gc.ca
Tags: financial assistance, Homeowners Property, Homeowners Property Grant, Horizons Seniors, Property Grant, Senior Homeowners, Senior Homeowners Property
