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Resource Centre explores needs of LGBTQ+ seniors

New Horizons
LGB seniors

The Sunshine Coast Resource Centre recently received funding from the federal government’s New Horizons Program for Seniors to explore the needs and experiences of senior members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community (LGBTQ+) on the Sunshine Coast.

The project was launched Oct. 4 with an outreach survey inviting community members to participate, and will run to March 2020. There will be several activities this fall to reach seniors in the LGBTQ+ community to learn their experiences and needs regarding services such as health care, public safety, access to amenities and housing.

Recommendations gleaned from the data collected will be shared with various organizations providing services to seniors on the Sunshine Coast in early spring to see if gaps can be addressed or training provided where needed.

Pat Hunt, co-chair of the Resource Centre, said: “We have been identifying needs and concerns of seniors on the Coast for several years but have never targeted the LGBTQ+ seniors or their allies to determine their specific needs. This is a first effort and I’m sure we will learn a lot.”

“Fall activities will include discussion groups and an online survey as well as individual interviews where needed,” said Betty Baxter, coordinator for the project. 

If you, or a friend or family member would like to take part in any of these information-gathering sessions, please contact the Sunshine Coast Resource Centre at 604-885-4088 or Baxter directly at bettybaxter@dccnet.com

– Submitted