By: Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
Seniors across Halton Region will soon have greater access to nature-based wellness programming, thanks to a $25,000 provincial investment in Conservation Halton’s Nature Stewards initiative.
The announcement was made this summer at Crawford Lake Conservation Area by Hon. Zee Hamid, MPP for Milton. Representatives from Cogeco and other program supporters joined seniors who have previously participated in the program to celebrate the funding boost.
Launched in 2024, Nature Stewards has already served more than 600 seniors in long-term care homes and retirement residences across Halton. The program connects older adults to nature through activities such as planting native gardens, guided walks, storytelling, and sensory-based workshops designed to engage memory, mobility and emotional well-being.
“Protecting, restoring and managing natural resources is imperative not just for Milton, but for across our province,” said Hamid. “Investing more time in nature is truly beneficial to all of us.”
The funding will allow Conservation Halton to expand the program’s reach in 2025 and 2026, enhancing physical wellness, mental stimulation and social engagement among seniors. The initiative also supports broader goals of environmental stewardship and community inclusion.
“At Conservation Halton, we have a track record of engaging communities in nature-based programs,” said Chandra Sharma, president and CEO of Conservation Halton. “Programs like Nature Stewards help reduce social isolation and promote community connection for seniors through meaningful activities.”
Kazim Siddiqui, a Milton senior who attended the announcement, said: “Nature Stewards gave me a reason to get outside, meet new people and feel connected again. It’s more than a program—it’s a lifeline for seniors like me.”
Conservation Halton is a community-based environmental agency that protects and manages natural resources in its watershed. Its team includes ecologists, planners, engineers and educators, supported by volunteers and a board of directors.
For more information, contact Brenna Bartley at bbartley@hrca.on.ca or visit conservationhalton.ca.
Discover more from The Milton Reporter
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
