COLD LAKE - Groups are taking steps to create a more compassionate and dementia-inclusive community through a new partnership between Age Friendly Cold Lake (AFCL) and Cold Lake and District FCSS.
With funding from Nav-Care, a national program supported by Health Canada, the initiative will enhance support for persons living with dementia (PLWD) and their caregivers, according to information for the City of Cold Lake.
At the Jan. 28 regular council meeting, City officials discussed how AFCL was selected as one just a few organizations across Canada to receive financial contributions from Nav-Care. The funding, distributed in three installments throughout 2025, will help build awareness, provide education, and engage the community in supporting individuals with dementia.
“This is an agreement with Age Friendly. They're in a partnership with Nav-Care funding, and they provide funding for engagement, education, and support for persons living with dementia and declining health,” said City of Cold Lake CAO Kevin Nagoya.
He also highlighted that FCSS will play a key role in delivering services outlined in the agreement.
Under the partnership, FCSS will designate a staff member to collaborate with AFCL, train staff using Nav-Care's modules, and assist with conducting a community index survey. The initiative also aims to develop new resources, such as a caregiver’s toolkit, and promote dementia-inclusive practices among local businesses and organizations.
Council unanimously approved the motion to enter into the partnership agreement. The funding secured through this partnership will total $39,568 by the end of 2025.
