$60k for two projects connecting seniors

THE NSW Government has delivered two grants of $30,000 each to Northern Rivers organisations to create a more inclusive community and reduce isolation and loneliness among seniors.

Beating Hearts of Lismore and Tweed Shire Council’s Age-Well Connect program are two of 28 projects funded across the state by the $840,000 Connecting Seniors Grant Program 2025.

The NSW Minister for Seniors, Jodie Harrison, said there was something for everyone in the funded programs.

“These projects can provide a social lifeline for seniors who often live alone. They help older people stay connected and age well,” Harrison said.

“It’s important that we provide as many opportunities as we can for seniors to stay engaged with their communities and even try new experiences.

“Congratulations to the recipients – I’m looking forward to seeing our seniors make excellent use of the programs and activities on offer.”

The Tweed has a high proportion of people over 65 at 26.6 per cent compared to the state’s average of 17.6 per cent. Three-quarters of the Tweed Shire is rural, with nearly a third of residents over 60 residing in rural villages, causing limitations and access to services for a large cohort of the senior community.

Tweed’s Age Well-Connect program will combat senior isolation in the shire through technology classes, cooking workshops, falls prevention, cognitive health initiatives and a jazz festival.

The Beating Hearts of Lismore will expand its work to connect older adults facing social isolation, dementia or Parkinson’s disease along with their carers. The weekly volunteer-led singing group will continue, and the grant will also support evidence-based dance classes to improve strength, balance and social connection.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin congratulated the two organisations and said both recipients would use the funding to support innovative projects in the Lismore and Murwillumbah districts.

“They are among 28 organisations funded in this year’s Connecting Seniors Grant Program across categories including Aboriginal, Multicultural, Creation, Enhancement or Expansion and Local,” Saffin said.

“I’m particularly pleased that the wonderful Beating Hearts of Lismore, coordinated by Lismore-based Geriatrician Dr Rachel Jones and her volunteers, will be able to enrich the lives of more local seniors.”

Since its launch in 2020, the Connecting Seniors Grant Program has funded over 120 projects and engaged over 30,000 seniors across NSW.