Our government is working across ministries to create the supports and implement the supports that people need when they’re at their most vulnerable, and that’s exactly why, during COVID, we invested $1 billion in the Social Services Relief Fund. It’s why we also have been investing $83 million through the Ontario Trillium Foundation to provide grants to help eligible non-profit organizations, including food banks, recover and continue to deliver vital programs.

As part of Ontario’s effort to support children, youth and families, we’ve also provided millions of dollars in funding to Feed Ontario. That funding assisted Feed Ontario in producing and distributing pre-packaged hampers and supporting the great work that food banks do across the province. The Student Nutrition Program is another example of another ministry supporting the exact needs that the member opposite described. We will continue to do this important work.

Thank you to the member from Eglinton–Lawrence for this important question. The members from Toronto west are doing a marvellous job to make sure seniors are getting the funding they deserve. Social isolation is enemy number one. We must keep seniors connected and active to fight social isolation. That is why our government has invested over $22 million into almost 1,200 seniors’ projects across Ontario. This is one of the many ways we are working for you to build a better Ontario.

Since 2018, Toronto West has received almost $2 million for Seniors Community Grants to stop social isolation and fight ageism. These grants support educational activities, improve mental health and support low-income seniors to live a better life in their communities. This program is one of the ways we are working for you to serve the needs of Ontarians.

My question is for the Minister of Seniors and Accessibility. Seniors in Ontario want the ability to be active and socially connected in their communities. Our government must support investments that address social isolation and help older adults live healthy lifestyles. I was pleased to see the minister recently visit North York to announce funding as part of the Seniors Community Grants Program. Our local community is appreciative of the work by the Premier and this minister in providing support for programs and educational activities for seniors.

Speaker, can the minister please explain why this funding is important for the constituents of North York and for seniors across Ontario?

Speaker, can the minister please elaborate on how the Seniors Community Grant Program benefits our seniors in our province?