Three communities in Hope and Abbotsford are getting new funding for some age-friendly programs. (Image Credit: Shxwōwhámél First Nation / Facebook)

By Alyssa Conti

Age-Friendly Projects

Fraser Valley communities get $53K in B.C. seniors’ programs grant

Jun 6, 2026 | 9:54 AM

HOPE — Elders in three First Nation communities in the Fraser Valley may be getting some local support with the latest delivery of a provincial program grant.

This year’s Age-friendly Communities Program saw an intake of 26 communities across B.C., including the Sumas First Nation in Abbotsford and Shxwōwhámél and Chawathil First Nations in Hope.

“We are proud to support B.C. communities in building places where older adults can age with dignity, safety and connection,” said Vanessa Manuel, executive director for BC Healthy Communities. “This year, we are especially moved by the breadth and depth of Indigenous-led projects in the 2026 cohort.”

Sumas First Nation received $15,000 for a project that aims to strengthen connections between Elders and youth through storytelling, meals around the fire, and facilitating land tours.

The Shxwōwhámél will be using its $23,000 grant to develop an action plan for mobility and transportation in its community spaces, while Chawathil First Nation will be working toward reducing isolation among Elders with a $15,000 grant.

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The Cities of White Rock and Surrey have also received a total of $40,000 for an age-friendly community plan and a series of safety workshops, respectively.

“This grant will make it possible for us to reach older adults in Surrey who are genuinely at risk and don’t know where to turn,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke.

“With Surrey’s 55+ population already representing more than a quarter of all residents, and growing rapidly, the safety workshop series grant will help bring together police, health, transit and community organizations.”

More than 20 per cent of the B.C. population is expected to be 65 or older by 2041.

Projects are set to start this July and finish in June 2027.

by Alyssa Conti

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Fraser Valley communities get $53K in B.C. seniors’ programs grant

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