Minister Tassi visits Saskatoon’s Sherbrooke Community Centre

News release

September 12, 2018         Saskatoon, Saskatchewan                Employment and Social Development Canada

Seniors make significant and valuable contributions to their families, communities and society. That is why the Government of Canada remains committed to ensuring all Canadians, including seniors, feel empowered to contribute and share in the prosperity of the country.

The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister of Seniors, visited the Sherbrooke Community Centre in Saskatoon yesterday to acknowledge the important work it is doing to help some of Canada’s most vulnerable populations. The Centre’s mission is to create a community that supports each person to live a full and abundant life. The organization has been recognized by the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada[1] as a model program. Their unique philosophy of care, known as "the Eden Alternative," is resident-directed and allows residents to live in houses or communal groupings living spaces. Living in groups of nine to ten people, residents have greater flexibility over what they do—such as when and what they eat—and have meaningful things to do in a day.

[1] http://www.alzheimer.ca/sites/default/files/files/national/culture-change/asc_sherbrooke_community_centre.pdf

Quotes

“The Government of Canada deeply values the contribution seniors make to our country. A resident- directed program like the one at the Sherbrooke Community Centre—one that truly values and considers the priceless knowledge and experience of seniors—sets a pivotal example of how a meaningful role can greatly contribute to the wellbeing of seniors. Addressing dementia is one of the Government’s priorities and I am so pleased to have the opportunity to see how this organization is helping individuals that may be facing this common health issue.”
– The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister of Seniors.

At Sherbrooke, we’re looking for joy, well-being, and meaning for people. The federal grants we have received in the past have made a real difference in the lives of our residents and contributed to the well-being of our community.”
- Suellen Beatty, CEO, Sherbrooke Community Centre

Quick facts

  • The Government of Canada is committed to promoting seniors’ health, well-being and contributions by encouraging them to stay active, engaged and informed.

  • Seniors are the fastest growing demographic group in Canada. By 2031, the number of seniors will reach almost 9 million, representing close to one quarter of Canada's population.

  • Canadians’ life expectancy is expected to continue rising—Canadian men and women born in 2030 will live on average to age 84 and 87, respectively.

Contacts

For media enquiries, please contact:
Lars Wessman, Communications Advisor
Office of the Minister of Seniors
613-854-3920
lars.wessman@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

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