Ontario Government Awards $25,000 for Social Prescribing Program Focused on Caregivers of Seniors
BRAMPTON, ON (June 23, 2025) - Peel Region is proud to announce two major milestones in its commitment to supporting family and informal caregivers of seniors: the successful graduation of the first cohort of the Caregiving Essentials course, and a $24,925 grant from the Ontario government’s 2025-26 Seniors Community Grant Program to expand the Social Prescribing for Seniors’ Caregivers initiative, pending final Transfer Payment Agreement.
The Ontario government funding will help scale up Peel Region’s social prescribing program across its five Adult Day Services (ADS) sites. This innovative project takes a preventative, person-centred approach to improving the health and wellbeing of caregivers in Peel Region, many of whom are older adults themselves. Through “social prescriptions,” caregivers are connected to community-based programs, cultural events, recreational activities, and wellness services tailored to their individual priorities and to promote social engagement, mental well-being, and resilience.
Social prescriptions may include outdoor experiences in conservation areas, art and cultural events, yoga and mindfulness sessions, and other wellness-focused activities offered in partnership with local organizations, such as the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, SOHAM Yoga, Brampton Library, Peel Art Gallery Museum + Archives, and the Canadian Opera Company. These activities are offered at no cost to caregivers, removing financial barriers to participation.
Caregiving course developed in partnership with McMaster University Continuing Education
In tandem with this expansion of the social prescribing program, Peel Region also celebrated the first graduating class of the Caregiving Essentials course — an innovative, in-person training program developed in partnership with McMaster University Continuing Education to empower caregivers in their caregiving role and help those they care for age in place.
The graduation ceremony, held at the new Seniors Health and Wellness Village at Peel Manor, honoured the dedication and compassion of 12 caregivers who stepped forward to better support seniors living with dementia and other complex care needs. Each graduate received a framed certificate and was formally recognized for successfully completing the five-week course, earning a McMaster Continuing Education microcredential.
The free 10-hour in-person course offered caregivers the opportunity to:
- Learn to thrive while supporting someone with dementia or complex health conditions
- Build supportive relationships and share lived experiences
- Practice self-care, compassion, and wellness strategies
- Develop practical communication techniques
- Navigate the healthcare system with confidence
- Build a personalized caregiver toolbox
Together, these initiatives align with the Seniors Services Strategic Plan’s focus on delivering person-centred, integrated care and also align with the province’s commitment to addressing the social determinants of health and enhancing caregiver resilience.
We’re proud to support innovative caregiver initiatives in Peel Region through the Seniors Community Grant Program. This program helps seniors increase independence, reduce social isolation and create positive connections, while strengthening families and reducing strain on our healthcare system
Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women's Social and Economic Opportunity of Ontario
It was truly heartwarming to celebrate these remarkable graduates, who have taken such an important step in their caregiving journey. Their commitment reflects the deep compassion and strength it takes to care for loved ones living with dementia and other complex needs. As our community’s population continues to age, education programs like this are vital in ensuring caregivers feel supported, empowered, and connected. We are proud to walk alongside them, offering the education and resources they need to help their loved ones live well at home for as long as possible.
Nancy Polsinelli, Commissioner of Health Services, Peel Region
We look forward to watching the Social Rx program scale up across all five ADS sites in Peel Region, working with community partners to create a long-lasting impact that empowers caregivers, enriches communities, and reduces pressure on Ontario’s healthcare system. Caregivers play a vital role in supporting the health and independence of seniors, and this funding will allow us to reach more caregivers, reduce the risks of burnout, and strengthen the critical network of care that helps older adults remain in their homes longer.
Whitney Harrison, Director, Seniors Services Development, Peel Region
This Caregiving Essentials Course is more than just training. It’s a lifeline and community for caregivers. Participants walk away with not only strategies and tools, but also stronger connections to local supports and each other.
Elisabeth Catalano-Bon, Registered Social Worker and Course Facilitator
About Peel Region
Peel Region works with residents and partners to create a healthy, safe, and connected Community for Life for approximately 1.5 million people and over 200,000 businesses in Brampton, Mississauga, and Caledon. Peel’s services touch the lives of residents every day. For more information explore peelregion.ca and follow us on X @regionofpeel and Instagram @peelregion.ca.
Media contact
Dan Brennan
Communications Specialist
Peel Region