News
January 22, 2026 - Orillia Honoured as an Age-Friendly Community
Province of Ontario acknowledges work of Age-Friendly Orillia and City of Orillia
The City of Orillia is honoured to have been recognized as an Age-Friendly Community by the government of Ontario, in acknowledgement of the joint efforts of the Age-Friendly Orillia Advisory Committee and the City of Orillia Active Living Centre.
Councillor Janet-Lynne Durnford accepted the award on Sunday January 18, 2026, on behalf of the City and Age-Friendly Orillia, at the Ontario Age-Friendly Community Recognition Ceremony hosted by the 2026 Rural Ontario Municipalities Association (ROMA) conference in Toronto.
In his invitation, the Honourable Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming, noted that "Age-friendly communities create more inclusive physical and social environments that support older adults to live safely, enjoy good health and stay active and involved."
Councillor Janet-Lynne Durnford accepted the award on Sunday January 18, 2026, on behalf of the City and Age-Friendly Orillia, at the Ontario Age-Friendly Community Recognition Ceremony hosted by the 2026 Rural Ontario Municipalities Association (ROMA) conference in Toronto.
In his invitation, the Honourable Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming, noted that "Age-friendly communities create more inclusive physical and social environments that support older adults to live safely, enjoy good health and stay active and involved."
The Ceremony provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of many communities, recognizing their contributions toward making Ontario more accessible and inclusive for people of all ages and abilities. Age-friendly communities create more inclusive physical and social environments that support older adults to live safely, enjoy good health and stay active and involved. Your community, along with others across Ontario, is being recognized for its achievements in building spaces that are more inclusive of older adults.
October 8, 2025 - Pair of Orillians, three local businesses win Simcoe County Age-Friendly Awards
The County of Simcoe is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Age-Friendly Recognition Awards, honouring individuals and businesses who have made outstanding contributions to creating inclusive, accessible and supportive environments for older adults across the region.
The awards follow a public nomination process held throughout the summer of 2025, during which residents were invited to spotlight those who exemplify age-friendly values in their work, volunteerism and community leadership. Nominations were received from across Simcoe County, reflecting the deep commitment to enhancing quality of life for seniors in diverse and meaningful ways.
On the evening of Oct. 7, the following recipients were celebrated for their contributions.
Congratulations to Individual Age-Friendly Recognition Award recipients:
On the evening of Oct. 7, the following recipients were celebrated for their contributions.
Congratulations to Individual Age-Friendly Recognition Award recipients:
- Beth Dubeau, Penetanguishene
- Linda Myles, Oro-Medonte
- Monica Menecola, Clearview
- Neill Latter, Orillia
- Rick Groves, Barrie
- Tayla Nesbitt, Orillia
- Saveria Caruso, Barrie
- Back to Barbering, Orillia
- Beach Builders Home Hardware Building Centre, Wasaga Beach
- Centre de Santé Communautaire CHIGAMIK Community Health Centre, Midland
- Foodland Beeton, New Tecumseth
- Habitat for Humanity Huronia & Restores, Barrie/New Tecumseth/Essa/Collingwood
- Hear Right Canada, Orillia
- The Hive Restaurant & Pub, Wasaga Beach
- MacLaren Art Centre, Barrie
- North Simcoe Arts, Midland
- Orillia Thrift Store, Orillia
- Quest Art School + Gallery, Midland
- Royalty Care, Barrie/Orillia
- Swiss Chalet, Wasaga Beach
Source: Orillia Matters
September 18, 2025 - An event supported by the Orillia Food Access and Sustainability Working Group and the Orillia Poverty Reduction Working Group. Topics included the link between food insecurity and poverty, and possible responses at the community level.The POVERTY PUZZLE describes how food insecurity connects not only to nutrition, but also to issues of income, housing, health and community well-being. POVERTY PUZZLE.pdf presented by Charlotte Knegt of the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, on behalf of: The Orillia & Area Food Strategy & The City of Orillia ad hoc Poverty Reduction Working Group
September 9, 2025 -Sharp rise in food insecurity prompts emergency declaration in Orillia
Orillia council unanimously passed a motion at Monday's meeting to declare a household food insecurity emergency.
Currently in Simcoe County, 30.7 per cent of households are affected by food unaffordability, according to data from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU). That's a "sharp increase" from 20 per cent in 2022, reads the report from Orillia's food access and sustainability working group.
Currently in Simcoe County, 30.7 per cent of households are affected by food unaffordability, according to data from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU). That's a "sharp increase" from 20 per cent in 2022, reads the report from Orillia's food access and sustainability working group.
In Orillia, the rate is even higher because there are more low-income families and more single-parent-led households and a larger percentage of renters than in other parts of the county, according to the SMDHU.
Charlotte Knegt, a public health nurse with the SMDHU, Lesley McMullin, the food system director at the Sharing Place Food Centre and Chris Peacock, executive director of The Sharing Place, presented the report to council, calling for an emergency to be declared at the meeting.
The approved motion also calls for Orillia to advocate for provincial and federal support to ease the crisis.
The number of people in Ontario going to food banks has more than doubled between March 2019 and March 2024, the highest five-year increase in the country, according to Food Banks Canada.
The resolution passed by council will be shared widely, including to Premier Doug Ford,Simcoe North MP Adam Chambers, Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop and Mina Fayez-Bahgat, general manager of social and community services for the County of Simcoe.
A meeting about household food insecurity will be held Sept. 18 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Orillia Public Library. The public meeting is being organized by the OrilliaFood Access and Sustainability Working Group.
Source: excerpts from Orillia Matters
June 17, 2025 - Simcoe County Recognized as Age-Friendly Community
The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially designated the County of Simcoe as an Age-Friendly Community, recognizing its efforts to support healthy, active living for residents of all ages—particularly older adults.
With nearly 20 per cent of the County’s population aged 60 and older, officials say the honour reflects a long-standing commitment to inclusivity, accessible services, and supportive infrastructure.
“By building up programs, services, and infrastructure, we are ensuring our residents can remain active, engaged, and independent at every stage of life,” said Warden Basil Clarke. “This designation reflects our dedication to building a community where all our residents can thrive.”
Simcoe now joins a global network of municipalities working to improve quality of life through age-friendly planning and implementation.
“Positive aging depends on strong connections and accessible resources,” added Jane Sinclair, General Manager of Health and Emergency Services. “We are proud to stand alongside municipalities from across the world in championing inclusivity and the well-being of our aging population.”
Source: Orillia Matters
April 14, 2025 - The City of Orillia Parks, Recreation, Culture, and Trails Master Plan launched three surveys for varying age categories. Have Your Say on Orillia's Vibrant and Creative Spaces They'd like to hear about your experiences with the City’s Parks, Recreation, Culture, and Trails assets and services. Surveys will be open for responses until August 1st, 2025.
April 1, 2025 - The Federal Government has designated this day as National Caregiver Day to honor the crucial role caregivers play in supporting their families and friends. In Ontario alone, there are 4 million caregivers, according to the Ontario Caregiver Organization. In Orillia, the 3rd Annual COHT Caregiver Appreciation Event will be held at Creative Nomads, 23 Mississauga St W, Orillia from 12-4pm. To Register, click here. The Couchiching Ontario Health at Home is kindly providing support for those needing to bring their loved ones, ensuring caregivers can fully enjoy the event. If this is required, please contact Katie Taylor at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
March 10, 2025 - Orillia Launches Transit Study to gather rider feedback
The City of Orillia, with support from Georgian College students, is launching the Orillia Transit Study: Your Ride, Your Say survey to gather public feedback on Orillia Transit services. Running from March 10 to 28, the survey invites residents to share their experiences and help shape the future of transit in Orillia.
The City of Orillia, with support from Georgian College students, is launching the Orillia Transit Study: Your Ride, Your Say survey to gather public feedback on Orillia Transit services. Running from March 10 to 28, the survey invites residents to share their experiences and help shape the future of transit in Orillia.
October 13, 2024 - Local seniors, youth are all aboard 'age-friendly' bus programs
As the end of 2024 approaches, so does the end of the city’s free teen bus pass pilot project. For some students, taking Orillia Transit makes more sense than waiting for a school bus, and the free pass is important to the families who use this service. More than 1,000 teen passes have been handed out since its implementation in March, says a city official.
As the end of 2024 approaches, so does the end of the city’s free teen bus pass pilot project. For some students, taking Orillia Transit makes more sense than waiting for a school bus, and the free pass is important to the families who use this service. More than 1,000 teen passes have been handed out since its implementation in March, says a city official.
The pilot project is one of two that were recommended to city council in March 2023. Both the free teen pass and a reduced fare for seniors were implemented in March 2024. Seniors pay $2 instead of $3. The pilot project is due to end in February 2025.
“If a community allows 80-year-olds to thrive, then it allows opportunities for everyone to thrive,” said Louise Cohen, co-chair of the Age-Friendly Orillia Advisory Committee.
Crawford also commented on the intent to sustain these programs.
“To ensure sustainability and accessibility to transit, we are continuously reviewing our transit program and working with the transportation and parking working group to bring recommendations forward to council for its consideration regarding transit services,” he said.“All are welcome to provide their feedback by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.,” Crawford said.
...excerpt from Orillia Matters article
October 16, 2024 - Age-Friendly Orillia Celebrates Winners of the 1st Annual Certificates of Appreciation.
Age-Friendly Orillia (AFO) is proud to announce the winners of its 1st Annual Age-Friendly Certificates of Appreciation, recognizing local businesses and organizations that have made a significant impact in creating a welcoming and inclusive community for older adults. The inaugural honourees are Manticore Books, Orillia Lawn Bowling, Orillia Matters, the Orillia Museum of Art & History, and Seniors at Play (City of Orillia Recreation Services). Awards were presented at the Aging Well Expo hosted by Lakehead University on October 16, 2024.
As Orillia’s population of older adults is projected to make up 40% of the community by 2040, AFO is committed to celebrating and supporting the vital contributions that enhance the lives of this growing demographic. The Age-Friendly Certificates of Appreciation highlight those who have gone above and beyond to ensure their spaces and services are accessible, customer-friendly, and inclusive for people of all ages and abilities.
This year's recipients represent a diverse range of services that enrich the lives of older adults in Orillia:
- Manticore Books: A beloved local bookstore that fosters a warm, welcoming environment for all readers, providing an accessible space for learning, connection, and cultural engagement.
- Orillia Lawn Bowling: A longstanding recreational activity that offers social opportunities and promotes physical activity for all ages, with a special emphasis on community and inclusivity for older adults.
- Orillia Matters: A trusted local news source that keeps the community informed and engaged, with a focus on issues relevant to older adults, ensuring that they remain connected to the happenings of Orillia.
- Orillia Museum of Art & History (OMAH): A vibrant hub of culture and learning, OMAH makes arts and history accessible to older adults through inclusive programming and community outreach.
- Seniors at Play: An initiative to provide older adults in Orillia and surrounding areas with age friendly recreation programs; preventing social isolation by promoting physical activity and encouraging social engagement.
“These awards are a testament to the businesses and organizations that make Orillia a vibrant and welcoming community for older adults,” said Louise Cohen, Co-Chair of Age-Friendly Orillia. “By ensuring that their services are inclusive, accessible, and engaging for all, these organizations play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for the older adult population.”
We also pay tribute to the following businesses/organizations who received nominations: Adult Diabetes Education Centre, All Canadian Taxi, Couchiching Family Health Team, Helping Hands, Information Orillia, National Nutrition, Orillia Public Library, Orillia Seniors Centre, Shoppers Drug Mart (Front St), VON Life Enrichment Program and Wilkie’s Bakery.
The AFO looks forward to continuing this initiative in the years to come, as Orillia continues to grow as an age-friendly community. Residents are encouraged to stay involved by nominating future candidates for the Age-Friendly Certificates of Appreciation, recognizing those who contribute to making Orillia a better place for everyone, regardless of age or ability.
August 13, 2024 – Age-Friendly Orillia (AFO) is excited to announce its 1st Annual Age-Friendly Certificates of Appreciation, celebrating the businesses and organizations that contribute to making Orillia a vibrant and welcoming community for older adults.
As Orillia’s population of older adults is projected to make up 40% by 2040, it is crucial to acknowledge and support those who enhance the lives of this significant demographic. The AFO invites residents to nominate businesses or organizations that demonstrate excellence in creating environments that are customer-friendly, inclusive, and accessible to people of all ages and abilities. AFO invites residents to nominate businesses or organizations that demonstrate excellence in creating environments that are customer-friendly, inclusive, and accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
Nominations are open and can be submitted for businesses and organizations excelling in any of the following eight categories of the World Health Organization’s Age-Friendly Cities Checklist:
- Outdoor Spaces and Buildings
- Transportation
- Housing
- Social Participation
- Respect and Social Inclusion
- Civic Participation and Employment
- Communications and Information
- Community and Health Services
Which business or organization(s) gave you this positive age-friendly experience? is the question we want you to answer. Please use this Nomination Form online or go to Information Orillia, located in the Orillia Public Library, to pick up a printed form.
Residents are encouraged to submit nominations by October 1st, 2024. Nominations may be for any business or organization that you believe deserves recognition, including your own. Each submission will be carefully reviewed and assessed by the AFO. Award recipients will be honored with a Certificate of Appreciation and invited to the Aging Well Expo, taking place at Lakehead University on Tuesday, October 16, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thanks for your participation and hope to see you there!
July 14, 2024 - City looking for input on Reducing Poverty
The City of Orillia is launching a survey to gather vital feedback from individuals with lived or living experience in poverty. The survey aims to understand the specific challenges faced by those experiencing poverty and identify opportunities that would provide the most assistance, focused broadly on the areas of affordable housing, youth services, employment, recreation and arts, food security, and transportation. Survey responses are due by July 29, 2024, and can be submitted online. Hard copies of the survey will also be available at the Orillia City Centre (50 Andrew St. S.), the Orillia Public Library (36 Mississaga St. W.), and the Orillia Recreation Centre (255 West St. S.).
The City of Orillia is launching a survey to gather vital feedback from individuals with lived or living experience in poverty. The survey aims to understand the specific challenges faced by those experiencing poverty and identify opportunities that would provide the most assistance, focused broadly on the areas of affordable housing, youth services, employment, recreation and arts, food security, and transportation. Survey responses are due by July 29, 2024, and can be submitted online. Hard copies of the survey will also be available at the Orillia City Centre (50 Andrew St. S.), the Orillia Public Library (36 Mississaga St. W.), and the Orillia Recreation Centre (255 West St. S.).
June 25, 2024 - Orillia hosts 'landmark' Poverty Reduction Symposium
The Symposium featured a dynamic panel of six representatives from local agencies addressing critical social issues such as youth, food security, affordable housing, medical care, and homelessness. Feedback gathered during the Symposium will inform a survey involving individuals with lived or living experience in poverty. The combined results from the Symposium and survey will be instrumental in crafting a comprehensive Orillia Poverty Reduction Strategy. A detailed report, compiled by a Lakehead University master's in social justice studies student researcher, is anticipated to be presented to Council in September. For more information about Council’s priorities for the 2022-2026 term, visit orillia.ca/CouncilPriorities.
The Symposium featured a dynamic panel of six representatives from local agencies addressing critical social issues such as youth, food security, affordable housing, medical care, and homelessness. Feedback gathered during the Symposium will inform a survey involving individuals with lived or living experience in poverty. The combined results from the Symposium and survey will be instrumental in crafting a comprehensive Orillia Poverty Reduction Strategy. A detailed report, compiled by a Lakehead University master's in social justice studies student researcher, is anticipated to be presented to Council in September. For more information about Council’s priorities for the 2022-2026 term, visit orillia.ca/CouncilPriorities.
February 1, 2024 - County Celebrates Age-Friendly Champions
The County of Simcoe celebrated the contributions of businesses and individuals who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to creating age-friendly communities during the inaugural County of Simcoe Age-Friendly Recognition Awards ceremony, held January 31 at the Simcoe County Museum. Winners of the 2024 County of Simcoe Age-Friendly Recognition Awards included Lisa Kutlesa and Sandra Forth (Seniors at Play).
December 16, 2023 - County Launches New Tool to Access Local Census Data
The County of Simcoe launched its new online Simcoe County 2021 census tool, which has been created to offer enhanced access and analysis of 2021 federal census data specific to Simcoe County, simplifying the navigation of more than 2,500 socio-demographic variables.
December 12, 2023 - City approves multi-year accessibility plan
Orillia Matters - City council has approved a new multi-year accessibility plan, which was put together over the past year in consultation with the public and the accessibility advisory committee.
November 30, 2023 - Council paves way for 'clear pathway' to more affordable housing
Orillia Matters - After months in development, Orillia City Council has endorsed an affordable housing action plan in an effort to increase housing affordability in Orillia in the coming years.
November 15, 2023 - WHO Establishes a Commission of Social Connection
UN Decade of Healthy Aging - Social connection is critical for health. Social isolation and loneliness are global issues that impact both older and younger people and have serious consequences for health and well-being. That's why we're welcoming WHO's announcement of a new Commission on Social Connection.
August 25, 2023 - County and Empower Simcoe Team Up to Provide Rent Subsidy Program
Empower Simcoe, in partnership with the County of Simcoe, have partnered together to build up the lives of vulnerable residents! As part of its 10-point homelessness prevention strategy, the County of Simcoe has partnered with Empower Simcoe to support the region’s vulnerable residents with the new Community Rent Supplement Program. This program will provide rent subsidies for individuals and families who are, or at risk of, experiencing homelessness.
October 11, 2022
“What Would Make Orillia More Age-Friendly?” was a question posed to members of the Mariposa Probus Club during a presentation by Louise Cohen, Co-Chair of Age-Friendly Orillia Advisory Committee. If your group would like to hear more about age-friendly initiatives in Orillia, please Contact Us
February 15, 2022
'Orillia Matters' ... The Age-Friendly Orillia Advisory Committee presented its Community Action Plan PDF to city council and it includes 27 “actions” that could be undertaken to help meet the needs of an aging population. It focuses on everything from transit subsidies and sidewalk maintenance to community gardens and workshops. Read The Article
September 23, 2021
"Age-Friendly Orillia plan aims to address some age-old issues" - This article in Orillia Matters reported that the priorities for an age-friendly Orillia are becoming clearer following initial public consultation. Key findings included a need for more housing choices, improved accessibility on sidewalks, equitable access to health-care services and more awareness of transit options. A final virtual public consultation will be held November 9, 2021 at 7 p.m.
September 20, 2021
A Presentation on "What We Heard" during community consultations was made to Orillia City Council by Co-Chairs Louise Cohen and Valerie Powell along with Jodi Ball of J Consulting. The purpose was to provide an overview of the planning framework, give an update on the City’s Age-Friendly Community Action Plan process, share some initial messages and key findings from the community, and describe next steps. You can watch a video of the Council meeting HERE. Another public workshop is planned for November 9 and a final presentation to Council on Orillia's Age-Friendly Community Action Plan will be made in January 2022.
A Presentation on "What We Heard" during community consultations was made to Orillia City Council by Co-Chairs Louise Cohen and Valerie Powell along with Jodi Ball of J Consulting. The purpose was to provide an overview of the planning framework, give an update on the City’s Age-Friendly Community Action Plan process, share some initial messages and key findings from the community, and describe next steps. You can watch a video of the Council meeting HERE. Another public workshop is planned for November 9 and a final presentation to Council on Orillia's Age-Friendly Community Action Plan will be made in January 2022.
June 3, 2021
"City Exploring Needs of Seniors" article appears in Orillia Today (pg.9). Steve Clarke, Mayor, is quoted as saying, "Through our partnership with Age-Friendly Orillia Advisory Committee and the community needs assessment, we will gain valuable insight and create an action plan for city services and other community services that focus on the health and well-being of our seniors".
June 2, 2021
"What will it take to make Orillia 'age-friendly' for Seniors?" was a question asked today in Simcoe.com. Click Here to read the article. The City of Orillia and Age-Friendly Orillia want to hear from you. Visit the City's Age-Friendly Plan Website for further information.
June 1, 2021
The Ministry for Seniors & Accessibility announces June is Seniors Month - Stay Safe, Active & Connected. It’s a time when we recognize our amazing older adults and the contributions they‘ve made in communities across Ontario. Here is how you can Participate PDF Tip Sheet and some Facts PDF Fact Sheet about the programs and services available for Ontario's seniors.
The Ministry for Seniors & Accessibility announces June is Seniors Month - Stay Safe, Active & Connected. It’s a time when we recognize our amazing older adults and the contributions they‘ve made in communities across Ontario. Here is how you can Participate PDF Tip Sheet and some Facts PDF Fact Sheet about the programs and services available for Ontario's seniors.
May 19, 2021
The City of Orillia announces a successful Inclusive Communities Grant and hires J Consulting to engage Orillians in creating an Age-Friendly Needs Assessment and Action Plan. AFO works with the consultant as Project Lead in partnership with the City.
February 1, 2021
Natasha Borutski is hired on contract as Project Coordinator for the Orillia Seniors News Line, Call 705-326-7743 ext 2 a telephone service offered through Information Orillia that delivers an abridged version of the daily news to seniors who cannot access digital media. PDF Poster
January 21, 2021
An update to the self-assessment produced in May 2020 was released. PDF 'How Are You Doing?' Assessment and asked citizens to reassess the state of their mental health as this pandemic continues.
October 1, 2020
On National Seniors Day an audio newscast service was launched. Local seniors are able to call Information Orillia (705-326-7743; extension 2) daily to listen to the Orillia Seniors News Line, a two-minute 'newscast' that includes the day's biggest headlines from the local community. This collaborative effort with the City of Orillia was initiated by Jay Fallis, Councillor for Ward 3.
May 22, 2020
A Self-Care Assessment was released to help citizens of Orillia assess their response to restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. We are grateful to the City of Orillia who sponsored distribution through Orillia Today, our weekly newspaper. Various community groups sent the assessment out via email (e.g., Chamber of Commerce, City of Orillia Recreation Department Seniors at Play, Parkinson’s Support Group, Parish Outreach to Seniors Project, St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church Seniors, and many others.) PDF Self-Care Assessment
May 2020
Age-Friendly Orillia Community Implementation Plan
A subgroup is currently working on a project plan which describes the flow of work required from start-up to submission to the City of Orillia for adoption of an Age-Friendly Orillia Community Implementation Plan. This project includes creating a work plan, a services inventory, an outreach plan, needs assessment surveys aimed at consumers and service providers, community outreach, data collection and analysis, goal setting, creating an implementation plan and making a deputation to the City of Orillia.
A subgroup is currently working on a project plan which describes the flow of work required from start-up to submission to the City of Orillia for adoption of an Age-Friendly Orillia Community Implementation Plan. This project includes creating a work plan, a services inventory, an outreach plan, needs assessment surveys aimed at consumers and service providers, community outreach, data collection and analysis, goal setting, creating an implementation plan and making a deputation to the City of Orillia.
December 2019
We asked readers of Orillia Matters and seniors’ groups (e.g. Seniors at Play) to help select a logo that best represented Orillia and the eight dimensions of age-friendly communities. We presented two designs by Overview Designs, readers voted, and the sun logo we are now using was the overwhelming winner. This familiar symbol in our Sunshine City is now part of Age-Friendly Orillia’s image, thanks to you!
