Funding provided for seniors computer training

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 27/10/2010 (5457 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Seniors in north Winnipeg could soon be making Facebook friends and Skyping their grandchildren thanks to an innovative project being offered by the Gwen Sector Creative Living Centre.

The Seven Oaks-based seniors group recently received $10,500 for its International Connections project. The project will provide seniors with basic computer user skills.

Funding for the project was announced earlier this month by Kildonan-St. Paul MP Joy Smith.

Marilyn Regiec, executive director of the centre, said the program will be launched some time next year. She said the aim of the program is to keep seniors busy and engaged.

“Computer knowledge especially will help keep seniors independent,” she said.

“It will be great for those who want to keep in touch with their families who do not live in Winnipeg.”

The federal funding will be used to purchase five new computers for the centre, according to Regiec. Students from West Kildonan collegiate will serve as instructors for the project.

Gary Hanson, internship co-ordinator at West Kildonan Collegiate, said he expects the project will prove popular with area seniors.

“I have a hunch it might catch on when people see how easy it is,” he said, noting the school has already begun searching for student instructors.

“We have a few options, be it approached from a student work experience or volunteer point of view. We will be looking at students either interested in working with seniors or who are interested in pursuing a future in education.”

Smith said the computer training provided to seniors will help them to avoid become socially isolated.

“This money will go a long way in this program. Older Canadians are becoming more and more important to society,” she said.

Regiec said she anticipates that as many as 100 seniors could sign up for the initial offering of the program.

Seniors interested in learning more about International Connections can call 339-1701.

rob.brown@canstarnews.com