Senior Services

Social Interaction and Reducing Isolation

In communities around Canada, there is a high need for resources and services for the quickly growing seniors' population. In Rexdale, more and more seniors from diverse cultural backgrounds, for many reasons, currently have limited access to community support and activities. Increasingly, immigrant and ethno-cultural seniors struggle with isolation caused in part by financial limitations which prevent them from living vivid social lives within the community. Their feelings of isolation can increase their risk of developing depression, or reduce their self-esteem and sense of worth to the community. Rexdale Women's Centre's Ethno-cultural Senior's Program offers many activities and for ethno-cultural seniors in their own language. In addition, seniors engage with other seniors from many different cultures, sharing views, ideas, values and traditions and learning new skills.

During the Ethnocultural Seniors Year End party, staff and seniors cutting into a cake
Seniors singing in traditional African clothing at a Seniors event
Seniors doing yoga at a gym
Seniors dancing and stretching during a program meeting
Seniors doing crafts during a Pursuit of Happiness program meeting

Pursuit of Happiness for Immigrant Senior Retirees (PoH)

The Pursuit of Happiness for Immigrant Senior Retirees (PoH) project, a collaborative effort between the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA) and funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), spans a 2-year duration. Its primary objective is to support retired, low-income, racialized immigrant seniors in enhancing their social connections, overall well-being, and resilience. Through PoH, participants engage in a variety of activities aimed at fostering community and personal growth. These include group programs facilitating the establishment of supportive social networks, educational sessions tailored to participant interests featuring guest speakers, opportunities for group volunteering, and community development projects. In these co-creation endeavours, participants take the lead in planning and implementing activities that align with their community vision, collaborating closely with RWC staff for guidance and support. Alongside group activities, RWC staff and volunteers provide individual services to assist seniors in their individual pursuit of happiness and well-being.

Programs and Activities

Woman talking and a group of women listening to her during a Intergenerational Seniors meeting

Ethnocultural Senior Groups

Our ethnocultural senior groups include the African-Caribbean Group, Chai and Chat Group, Gujarati Group, Iraqi Group, Punjabi Group, Italian Group, Pakistani Group, and Intergenerational Group.

Group of seniors listening to a workshop

Workshops

We regularly run educational workshops on topics of interest to seniors, including financial planning, mindfulness, healthy eating, and community engagement.

 
Senior being helped by a volunteer to navigate a computer

Computer Classes

Computer Classes and Digital Literacy Workshops designed exclusively for Seniors. Our classes cover various topics, including computer navigation, online security, smartphones, and social media.

Seniors participating in a Zumba class

Yoga and Zumba

As we age, prioritizing our physical health becomes increasingly vital. The centre provides yoga sessions, along with a Zumba class, fostering opportunities for maintaining fitness and overall health.

 
A large group of seniors at a field trip to Sunset Beach

Excursions and summer trips

Our summer excursions for seniors offer memorable opportunities to explore new destinations, enjoy outdoor activities, and create cherished memories in the company of friends and fellow adventurers.

Staff holding up award at Toronto Challenge Event. Seniors clapping the the background.

Toronto Challenge

RWC participates each year in the Toronto Challenge Walk, an event that promotes active living and raises funds for seniors’ programs in our city.

 
Two senior women holding up their crafts

Arts and Crafts

Our arts and crafts workshops for seniors provide a supportive and enriching environment where participants can explore various mediums, unleash their creativity, and foster social connections.

A group of senior women singing and playing the guitar at an event

Special Events

We host dedicated celebrations for seniors, like the Seniors' Month Event and Year-End party. Seniors contribute to events year-round as speakers and performers and through cultural displays, enriching the experience for all attendees.

 

English Conversation Circle for Seniors

For seniors looking to practice their English, our English Conversation Circle offers an excellent opportunity to build confidence through engaging discussions and activities, including a monthly movie night and cooking club. Join us to improve your English proficiency and make new friends.

Group of seniors listening to a workshop

Leaders’ Working Group

In the working group meeting, leaders from our ethnocultural groups come together to discuss the current needs of seniors in the area. Based on these discussions, we create and tailor program content, ensuring we provide evidence-based services and support to the community.

Senior Services

  • 21 Panorama Court, Suite 13

    Etobicoke, Ontario

    M9V 4E3

  • Monday-Friday

    9:00am - 5:00pm

    or by appointment

    (Fridays remote service)

  • 416-745-0062 ext.352

    POH Program

    416-745-0062 ext.295