Province of Manitoba Media Release|
On November 15, 2013, the Manitoba government today celebrated a significant milestone as it welcomed 14 new communities to the Age-Friendly Manitoba Initiative for a total of 100, Healthy Living and Seniors Minister Sharon Blady has announced.

Communities joining the Age Friendly Manitoba Initiative include RM of Birtle, Town of Birtle, RM of Brenda, Deloraine, Ethelbert, Hartney, Lac du Bonnet, Plum Coulee, RM of Rockwood, RM of St. Andrews, RM of Stuartburn, Swan River, Waskada, and RM of Winchester.

“Reaching this milestone is something we all can celebrate. By working together we are helping to ensure Manitoba is recognized as one of the most age-friendly provinces in the country,” the minister said. “The initiatives on which communities are taking action on are making a real difference for seniors and all members of their communities.”

“We are pleased to see 14 more communities being recognized for embracing the Age-Friendly Manitoba Initiative,” said Doug Dobrowolski, president, Association of Manitoba Municipalities. “The 100 Manitoba communities now dedicated to becoming age friendly have made their communities more accessible for all citizens.”

The province has invested more than $2.5 million in age-friendly initiatives through partner organizations and communities to develop and enhance age-friendly programs and services throughout the province.

Manitoba is seen as a world leader in creating supportive communities for older adults, with more than 80 per cent of the population living in communities committed to supporting seniors, the minister said.

The Age-Friendly Manitoba Initiative supports seniors in leading active, socially engaged, independent lives that contribute to healthy aging. For more information on this initiative, please visit www.agefriendlymanitoba.ca.