PRRD seeking financial support for Seniors Aging in Place program

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) is looking to the province to fund its Seniors Aging in Place (SAIP) program.

The SAIP program was announced last year and is available to residents aged 65 and over in Electoral Area D and portions of Electoral Area E.

According to the PRRD, the program is meant to accommodate seniors in rural areas so they do not have to leave their homes.

In a board meeting on Thursday, May 4th, it was agreed that the PRRD would authorize the development of an information package and funding proposal for the provincial government.

 Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, requested the information in a short meeting with area ‘E’ director Dan Rose while he was in Victoria for the Municipal Finance Authority Annual General Meeting and Conference.

Last year, the PRRD began a contract with the Dawson Creek Society for Community Living to provide meals, light housekeeping, and snow removal to seniors at their homes.

As of May 2023, the society has provided 7,863 meals, 1,049 housekeeping visits, and 265 snow removal services.

In total, 178 program users have signed up for one or more services.

Meals are $3 per meal, per person. According to the PRRD, five freshly frozen, home-cooked meals are delivered weekly to each home, with 21 options available. Food allergies and requirements can also be accommodated. Meals will be delivered on a prearranged day, with the delivery contractor performing a social check during each visit.

Housekeeping is $12.50 per visit, according to the district. Two professional cleaners will come for two hours per visit bi-weekly. The contractor will provide all of the cleaning supplies required. A social component is also included in the cleaning visits.

Snow removal services are $25 a month, available from November to March, and can be used three times a month.

The PRRD says the SAIP program went into effect after the Seniors Again in Place Establishment Bylaw No. 2444 received the permission of the electors in July 2021 and was announced in September 2022.

A brochure with further information can be viewed below: