Kerby Blog
IM/Age 2013 Photo competition
May 17th, 2013

Rules
1. A maximum of one photo can be submitted.
2. The photographer must be 55 or over.
3. Photos must be submitted electronically to photocompetition@kerbycentre.com
4. Photos must be high resolution: 300 DPI or greater.
5. Photos must be 10 megapixels or more.
6. Kerby Centre will have rights to use all submitted photos on Kerby Centre promotional materials, website and social media.
7. Use of the photos will include photo credit for all uses.
8. Photos of individuals who can be identified will require a signed photo release from that individual before they can be displayed.
9. Deadline for submissions is 4:00 p.m., August 16, 2013.
Seniors.gc.ca relauches improved website
May 17th, 2013
The improved website is a valuable tool providing seniors, their family members, caregivers and supporters with useful information on government benefits and services.
This reflects the federal government’s commitment to supporting the well-being of Canada’s seniors by providing them with the information they need to help them stay active, engaged and informed in their communities, workplaces and families.
In consultation with the provinces and territories, they have launched the "Information for Seniors" section, which has been incorporated into seniors.gc.ca. "Information for Seniors" brings together a variety of federal, provincial/territorial and municipal resources for seniors in an intuitive and user-friendly way. With a few clicks, users will have easy access to information in a centralized one-stop shop for relevant services and benefits for seniors.
Calgary Poverty Reduction Initiative Final Report
May 14th, 2013
The Calgary Poverty Reduction Initiative has issued their Final Report and Recommendations. “Enough For All: Unleashing Our Communities’ Resources to Drive Down Poverty in Calgary” is truly a community effort and represents the work of countless individuals who together contributed thousands of hours toward building a robust strategy which will have a meaningful impact on poverty in our city.
Kerby Centre CEO Luanne Whitmarsh was the co-chair of the Seniors Constellation of this initiative.
MLA Yvonne Fritz presents $75,000 to support Relocation Planning
May 13th, 2013

MLA Yvonne Fritz and Kerby Centre CEO Luanne Whitmarsh
Hon. Yvonne Fritz presented Kerby Centre with a cheque for $75,000 to help offset costs for planning for Kerby's relocation! Kerby thanks Yvonne and all the MLA's who supported us!!
Make Health Last
May 7th, 2013
A new poll by the Heart & Stroke Foundation reveals Canadian Baby Boomers plan to grow old with vitality, living full lives. The reality, however, is that many of these boomers may not be healthy enough to see these plans through.
Heart disease, stroke and other chronic conditions will cause the average Canadian to live a decade in sickness, disability and immobility later in life. Research shows that there's a 10-year gap between how long Canadians are living and how long they live in good health. Research also shows that through lifestyle choices, we can add health to our years and shrink that 10-year gap.
They have launched a new website, Make Health Last, to motivate and support Canadians to live longer, healthier lives. Click here to visit the site.
Elder Abuse: The Gatekeepers
April 26th, 2013
To report a suspected case of elder abuse, please call (403) 705-3250 (Elder Abuse Resource Line).
"The Gatekeepers" is a short video that can help you understand your role in ending elder abuse situations.
The Elder Abuse Response Team (EART) is a partnership between Kerby Centre, Calgary Family Services and Calgary Police Service. The goal of the EART is to reduce elder abuse in Calgary.
The EART consists of 2 social workers, 2 police officers, a nurse and a program coordinator. Members of the team will:
- Respond to and investigate suspected cases of elder abuse;
- Provide support and guidance to abuse victims and their families; and
- Assist other service providers working with abuse victims.
For more information please call (403) 473-1311
Seniors Property Tax Deferral Program
April 22nd, 2013
The Seniors Property Tax Deferral Program (SPTDP) allows eligible senior homeowners to defer all or part of their property taxes through a low-interest home equity loan with the Alberta government.
How it works
If you qualify, the Alberta government will pay your residential property taxes directly to your municipality on your behalf. You re-pay the loan, with interest, when you sell the home, or sooner if you wish.
- The current interest rate is 3%
- Read more about the interest rate
The Seniors Property Tax Deferral Program is voluntary, so it’s up to you whether you want to apply.
As with any important financial decision, you may wish to consult with your family or a financial adviser to decide whether this program is right for you.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Seniors Property Tax Deferral Program, you must:
- Be 65 years or older
- Be an Alberta resident
- Own a residential property in Alberta
- Have a minimum of 25% equity in your home
Only residential properties are eligible. The home must be your primary residence (that is, the place where you live most of the time).
Elder Abuse Response Team (from Global TV)
April 22nd, 2013
Kerby Centre CEO Luanne Whitmarsh is interviewed by Global TV about the Elder Abuse Response Team and the up-coming awareness event.
Click here to view the interview.






