Aug. 26, 2022 – For immediate release:

Today, mayoral candidate Rana Bokhari is unveiling her five-point plan to make Winnipeg the most accessible, age-friendly city in the country – not only for seniors, but for those caring for aging parents. 

“There are more than 110,000 people aged 65+ in Winnipeg, and that population is only going to increase over the next decade,” says Rana, adding that many of them are being cared for by families.

“The experiences of seniors are diverse. Some want to live at home as long as possible. Some want to live in multigenerational households and some want to be a part of community-shared housing.

Rana’s plan not only will support seniors but also the “sandwich generation,” who are caring for their own children and aging parents at the same time, she added.

“My plan is a city-led effort to enhance the lives of our older residents to strengthen their support networks, by ensuring that Winnipeg is the most accessible city in the country.” 

The five-point plan:

• Inclusive Housing

1. • New multi-residential builds will include main floor allocations for seniors
   • Encourage developers to sell some plots in new developments together in multi-generational packages
   • Mandatory accessibility considerations in new builds – like standard accessible washroom facilities in apartments, railings, slip-proof bathtubs, etc.
   • Reduce red tape around developments or renovations for multi-generational families as well as permits to upgrade current homes (ramps, etc.)

• Accessible Spaces

1. • Considerations for scooters, motorized wheelchairs and other accessible features will be mandatory for community spaces, parks and sidewalks
   • Wheelchair-friendly picnic tables and paths to get to them

• Expand Current Library Programs

1. • Pilot a library delivery program for seniors
   • Expand library hours to include evenings and weekends
   • Encourage use of libraries for community gatherings

• Supportive and Enhanced Transit

1. • Ensure recommendations of Winnipeg Transit Plus continue to be implemented as fast as possible
   • Decrease call wait times for Winnipeg Transit Plus
   • Evaluate the impact of expanded eligibility
   • Evaluate bus stops to ensure all are accessible by sidewalk or path – (for example: Lormier Blvd.)

• Community Support

1. • Create a community volunteer program to match volunteers with seniors who need show shovelling or grass cutting
   • Pilot a Do-It-Yourself safe sidewalk program, by providing ice melt in barrels near high foot-traffic locations, community helping seniors.

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For more information:

Elisha Dacey

204-290-8009

team@rana4wpg.ca