Community meals create connection for older adults

Island seniors across the province will have more opportunity to connect with one another and stay engaged in their communities through funding from the Seniors Community Meal Grants.

Forty-eight projects have been approved to host community meals for seniors. Supported by more than $150,000 in funding, these projects represent a meaningful investment in seniors’ social connection and well-being. 

"Good food tastes better with great company. These grants provide a way for older adults to come together, connect with their community, and enjoy a free meal in a welcoming setting. We are proud to support the organizations that make this possible."

-Social Development and Seniors Minister Barb Ramsay

The provincial government launched the grant program in 2024 to provide funding for organizations to host free communal meals for seniors. Applications for the recent round of funding opened in February and closed in March 2026. Successful applicants received up to $5,000 per project.

“This grant has been such a success in our community allowing us to not only host these events but bring our community together,” said chief administrative officer of the Rural Municipality of Crapaud Margaret Armsworthy. “We have dedicated volunteers and councilors who ensure these events are more than just about the food being provided. It’s also about bringing our community together.”

This program supports one of the key themes in the Seniors Action Plan 2026-2031 by enhancing access to food and social connection for seniors. 

Media contact:
Hillary Proctor
Department of Social Development and Seniors
hproctor@gov.pe.ca