The Premier says funding for seniors from the federal government will help to improve their quality of life.

Ottawa announced $2.5-billion for senior citizens yesterday to help them through the COVID-19 crisis.

Seniors eligible for the old age supplement will get a one-time tax-free payment of $300 and a further one-time tax-free payment of $200 for those eligible for the guaranteed income supplement.

Premier Dwight Ball reminds people that these benefits are tied to income tax returns. Ball says to avoid any interruption in these benefits, people now have until October 1, 2020 to file income taxes. However, they do encourage people to submit their taxes as soon as possible.

The Premier says the programs are meant to support the most vulnerable in society so they will continue to receive benefits when they need them the most.

The federal government also announced the expansion of the “New Horizons for Seniors” program to an additional $20-million to support organizations that offer community-based projects.

He says they reduce isolation, improve the quality of life for seniors, and help them maintain a social support network.