Seniors

This page provides information about local services for our 50+ gang, from housing and healthcare to social engagement and recreation, tailored to seniors’ needs.

Senior Services and Programs in Beacon Hill-Cyrville

Senior Community Centers & Social Programs:

• Pat Clark Community Center: The Gloucester 50+ Center is a member of the OACAO –  Older Adults Centre Association of Ontario.
  The mission of this Centre is to enhance the quality of life of seniors of the City of Ottawa by disseminating relevant information and providing recreational, educational, cultural and related support services mainly through the utilization of senior volunteers.
• Ottawa Public Health – Seniors Programs: As part of the Ottawa Public Health initiative, seniors in the ward can access local programs on fall prevention, chronic disease management, and mental health support.

Transportation Services for Seniors:

• OC Transpo provides convenient bus and light rail services for seniors, including reduced fares for those aged 65+. There are routes that connect Beacon Hill-Cyrville to other parts of Ottawa, including nearby shopping centers, medical facilities, and leisure areas.
• Para Transpo: Seniors who have mobility issues can apply for Para Transpo, Ottawa’s door-to-door transportation service for those with disabilities.

If you’re 65 or older, you could be eligible for the Ontario Seniors’ Public Transit Tax Credit, which offers up to $450 back each year to help with public transit costs. Whether you use a PRESTO card, buy tickets, or ride specialized services, you may be able to claim a portion of those expenses when filing your taxes. Just be sure to keep your receipts or usage records.

For more details on eligibility and how to claim, visit:
ontario.ca/page/ontario-seniors-public-transit-tax-credit

Local Amenities in Beacon Hill-Cyrville

Shopping:

• Gloucester Centre: Located at 1980 Ogilvie Road, the Gloucester Centre Mall is the closest shopping center to Beacon Hill-Cyrville. Seniors can find grocery stores (e.g., Metro), pharmacies, banks, and other essential shops here.
• Canotek Road: Many local small businesses such as Chris’s Ice Cream, Fettuccine’s Fine Foods and the Almanac Urban Mill & Bakery. Click HERE for more!

Dining and Social Opportunities:

• There are a number of cafés and restaurants in Beacon Hill-Cyrville, many of which are locally owned and offer senior discounts. Seniors can often find meal programs or social dining options at local churches or community halls whenever there are events or holidays.

Parks and Recreation:

• Cyrville Park: A local green space where seniors can enjoy nature, walk, or engage in outdoor activities.
• Beacon Hill Park: A larger park with walking paths, benches, and open green spaces for recreation.
• Ottawa Greenbelt: Situated just to the north of the ward, the Greenbelt offers larger natural spaces for hiking, walking, and enjoying outdoor leisure.

Financial Assistance and Benefits

Seniors in Beacon Hill-Cyrville may be eligible for a variety of financial programs available through provincial and federal government initiatives:

• Ontario Drug Benefit Program (ODB): Seniors over 65 are eligible for coverage under the Ontario Drug Benefit Program, which helps with the cost of prescription medications.
• Senior’s Property Tax Relief: The City of Ottawa offers various property tax relief programs, including the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) tax rebate, which can help seniors who own their home by reducing property taxes.
• Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS): Seniors in the ward are eligible for federal programs like CPP and OAS to help provide income during retirement.
• Ontario Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS): Low-income seniors can benefit from the GAINS program, which provides a monthly income supplement.

Volunteer Opportunities and Social Engagement

• Volunteer Ottawa: This nonprofit organization offers a range of volunteer opportunities for seniors in the Beacon Hill-Cyrville area. Seniors can contribute to community projects, help at local charities, or participate in mentorship programs.
• Senior Social Clubs and Networks: Local churches and community centers often offer social events, volunteer opportunities, and community networks for seniors. Joining a group like the Beacon Hill Community Association can provide social engagement and keep seniors involved in the local neighborhood, and they always enjoy having extra volunteers at their events.

Emergency Services and Crisis Support

• Ottawa Fire Services: Beacon Hill-Cyrville is served by local fire stations, which provide emergency services and home safety visits for seniors, particularly for fall prevention and fire safety.
• Seniors’ Crisis Helplines: There are a variety of local resources available for seniors in crisis, including the Ottawa Seniors Crisis Line. The City of Ottawa also offers emergency assistance for seniors facing financial or health-related crises.

Beacon Hill-Cyrville (Ward 11) in Ottawa offers a wide range of services, from housing and healthcare to social engagement and recreation, tailored to seniors’ needs. With easily accessible transportation, a variety of local community centers, and several healthcare options nearby, seniors in the area are well-supported to live independently and stay connected to their community.

MORE INFORMATION TO COME – STAY TUNED!