Niagara, ON, April 5, 2023 – After nearly six decades of administration under United Way Niagara, the Seniors Health and Well-being Fund (previously known as the Clara Crawford Fund) is moving to Community Support Services of Niagara (CSSN). The fund, which supports low-income seniors with grants to purchase things like assistive mobility devices, eyeglasses and hearing aids, helps seniors improve their health and well-being and live independently for longer.

“Transferring the application and granting process of the Seniors Health and Well-being fund to Community Support Services Niagara was an easy decision, and one that was a natural fit,” said Frances Hallworth, CEO of United Way Niagara. “With their decades of experience providing comprehensive client-driven community support for seniors, they have the knowledge and expertise to improve the lives of so many seniors in Niagara.”

CSSN provides support services across the Niagara region for seniors and adults with disabilities by promoting independence, dignity and inclusion – offering a variety of supportive programs such as Meals on Wheels, Grocery Delivery, Wellness Support, Safety at Home and Homemaking or Transportation. CSSN is well versed in the needs of seniors in Niagara, and transferring the administration of this fund will help them to better serve and support their clients.

The fund, which began as the Clara Crawford Fund in 1965, was made possible by the generous legacy of Clara Crawford, a St. Catharines woman who left a legacy gift to help seniors pay for health, medical and well-being costs. The fund was revamped in 2020 with a boost from the David S. Howes Fund through the Niagara Community Foundation, and was renamed the Seniors Health and Well-Being Fund. Currently the fund is made possible by support from the David S. Howes Foundation, the Rose City Seniors Foundation and Greg and Diane Slaight.

“CSSN is honored and privileged to be administering this much needed fund for low income seniors across the Niagara region. CSSN will leverage its role as health service providers to further support seniors in accessing services and supports to keep them happy and safely in their homes,” said Carolyn Askeland, Executive Director of CSSN.

In the last three years, United Way’s Seniors Health & Well-being Fund has helped 235 individuals improve their lives. Beginning April 1, all applications will be accepted and grants administered by CSSN. For more information: https://happyinmyhome.ca/services/seniors-health-and-wellbeing-fund/