Nova Scotia seniors will be protected from harm and will be able to live comfortably and independently through programs supported by the province's Senior Safety Grant.

Seniors Minister Denise Peterson-Rafuse announced today, Aug. 5, applications for the grant are now available and will be accepted until Friday, Oct. 4.

"Nova Scotia seniors have worked hard, and we want to ensure they have the quality of life and peace of mind they've earned," said Ms. Peterson-Rafuse. "These grants support programs that reach out to seniors to make sure they are living safely and comfortably in their own homes, while giving them somewhere to turn if they ever need help."

Senior Safety Grants support non-profit groups that address senior abuse by focusing on crime prevention and encouraging the overall health and safety of seniors.

"With the help we receive from the province, the RCMP and the five municipalities in the area, our senior safety co-ordinator is able to ensure the safety of dozens of seniors every week," said South Shore Safe Communities chair Paul Fynes. "In many cases, these are visits that seniors look forward to because it helps them stay connected to their friends and their community."

Up to $20,000 is available per application. Programs must demonstrate financial or in-kind community support, and emphasize better communication between seniors and the police.

For more information and application forms, visit http://novascotia.ca/seniors/senior_Safety_Grant.asp or call toll-free, 1-800-670-0065 or 424-0065, in Halifax.

The province continues to make life better and more affordable for seniors and their families by supporting efforts to live independently, while working collaboratively with communities to create places where Nova Scotians can live and age well.