Low-income seniors access to dental care, prescription drugs
According to a Ministry of Health media release dated May 12 the province is updating the income eligibility thresholds for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program and the Seniors Co-Payment Program to allow more of Ontario’s most vulnerable seniors to have access to dental care and affordable prescription medications. In 2019, the Ontario government launched the Ontario Seniors Dental Care program to provide free routine dental care for eligible low-income seniors across the province. The Seniors Co-Payment Program enables low-income seniors to access the medication they need with no annual deductible and a reduced co-payment for each prescription.
Starting August 1st, 2021, eligibility thresholds for both programs will be updated to reflect cost of living increases in Ontario and align with income support programs for seniors. Income thresholds will be updated for single Ontarians aged 65 and over, from $19,300 to $22,200, and for couples with a combined annual income, from $32,300 to $37,100. This will allow approximately 7,000 more seniors to access the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program and 17,000 more seniors to access the Seniors Co-Payment Program in 2021-2022.
Litterbugs attract hefty fines in MV
MV Township charges people for illegal dumping of garbage and careless littering in the municipality. So far this season two tickets for $200 each have been handed out said Bylaw Enforcement Officer Corwin Quade, and he has issued a written warning to a third individual. Quade advised that MV staff continue to monitor trails and roadside in the municipality for offenders. If you witness illegal dumping or you find litter where it shouldn’t be, please report the incident promptly to the Township enclosing details of the location, along with photos if possible.
Farmers’ Market season begins this week
Friday, May 21 is the first day for the Barry’s Bay Farmers’ Market at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 406, 250 John Street, Barry’s Bay. The market will be held, rain or shine, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Friday from May 21 to Oct.8. Covid protocols apply.
CRC seeks Board members
Community Resource Centre (Killaloe) Inc. seeks volunteers to serve on the Board of Directors. CRC offers “innovative holistic programs to support children, youth, adults, seniors and families to learn new skills, build on their strengths, access supports and services, and work together to nurture positive individual and community growth.” Details at www.crc-renfrewcounty.com For more information or to apply email Bil Smith askus@crc-renfrewcounty.com OR call 613-757-3108.
MV Gardening Club offers alternative to Plant Sale
The extension of Ontario’s stay-at-home orders means the annual plant sale by MV Gardening Club cannot take place on May 22 as planned at the Combermere Craft Cabin. Instead, the club is offering an innovative Alternative Individual Plant Sale. Click HERE for details on Facebook/Madawaska Valley Gardening Club.