On December 18, the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, launched Bridging Generations: A Guide to Intergenerational Programs in Newfoundland and Labrador. This guide has been created to provide practical guidance and resources to communities, community groups and organizations for creating and nurturing intergenerational connections that encourage people of all ages to learn and share with each other.

Intergenerational activities enrich the lives of participants, help create connections across generations and challenge ageism. In January, the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development launched an engagement process to inform the development of an intergenerational program guide, which provided individuals and community stakeholders with the opportunity to share their insights and perspectives to help inform development of the guide.

Newfoundland and Labrador is Canada's first well-being province and the Provincial Government has taken specific financial, social and economic action to support seniors. In Budget 2024, $200,000 was allocated to continue the Seniors' Social Inclusion Initiative which offers funding to eligible clubs and organizations that serve seniors to help increase intergenerational interactions and participation in healthy aging, and mental health and well-being activities. Government is also investing $175,000 to support intergenerational activities within communities and schools.

Bridging Generations: A Guide to Intergenerational Programs in Newfoundland and Labrador is now available online.

Quotes

"It is wonderful to present this intergenerational program guide on behalf of my department. Intergenerational activities promote social inclusion and community participation for all individuals across the lifespan and contribute to our overall well-being."

Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

"I can speak first-hand to the tremendous benefits intergenerational activities can bring to both young and old. This guide is a valuable resource that encourages groups and organizations in our communities to engage in intergenerational activities while providing examples and guidance to help us develop more."

Linda Oldford, President, Newfoundland and Labrador 50+ Federation

Learn more

• Bridging Generations: A Guide to Intergenerational Programs in Newfoundland and Labrador