July 25th, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

United Way of the Lower Mainland supports outreach programs to seniors on Vancouvers Westside
Vancouver, BC Kitsilano Neighbourhood House has received funding from United Way of the Lower Mainland (UWLM) to support outreach services to Maplecrest Apartments, in Kitsilano, a subsidized residential building for seniors, owned and operated by the Shalom Legion Branch. Kitsilano Neighbourhood House will work with senior serving agencies, health providers and community organizations to provide activities, programs, services and supports to seniors living at Maplecrest with the goal of reducing social isolation, promoting leadership, and fostering community collaboration. We are very happy that UWLM recognizes the need for outreach programs and supports seniors to live independently and fully engaged in community, says Julie Wall, Seniors Coordinator, Kitsilano Neighbourhood House. The funding will provide seniors living at Maplecrest with the following identified needs, based on a Needs Assessment, conducted in June, 2011: Social daytrips, in-house celebrations (cultural birthdays), seniors-based interest groups, special events, language support (30% of seniors living at Maplecrest are Russian-speaking) Education -talks and workshops Accessibility - grocery shopping, food security and food education Advocacy - trained volunteers providing peer advocacy supports

Kitsilano Neighbourhood House would like to take this opportunity to thank UWLM for providing funds through the Maplecrest Outreach Project to make this seniors project possible. Kitsilano Neighbourhood House is part of the Association of Neighbourhood Houses of Greater Vancouver a volunteer-driven, community based organizations committed to responding to the social, multicultural, artistic, and economic needs and values of its neighbourhoods. For more information, please contact Julie Wall, Seniors Coordinator at 604-736-3588 or email julie@kitshouse.org