The LSCO’s Support Our Seniors campaign is in full swing. The seniors organization hopes to raise $75,000 to help replenish its savings which have dwindled due to the lingering effects of COVID and rising costs. “This fundraiser is to help us build some time to not deplete our reserves. To be able to continue with the leadership that we’ve seen in this organization and improve system structures and be able to keep moving forward,” said Kaitlynn Weaver, executive director of the Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO). The additional funding is badly needed. Rising costs and reduced revenue from sources like gaming and bingo have caused the LSCO to dip into its savings. In the last ten years reserves have dropped from $500,000 to just $60,000. “The last seven years we have experienced reoccurring deficits that have depleted our reserves quite substantially. And we’re concerned about the future of the organization,” said Weaver. The LSCO is in no danger of shutting down. But programs and services could be reduced or cut if finances don’t improve. These include wellness programs, health clinics, outreach support and more. “The LSCO is a hub for older adults in this community. We do so much for the community to have a place for people to belong and connect and thrive. And that can be from pickleball or the yoga classes that we provide,” said Weaver. The LSCO says it has also seen a reduction in funding coming from provincial grants but did not specify how much. The organization is optimistic the funds will return at some point. Funding from the province comes through Family and Community Support Services which gives funds to the City of Lethbridge to deliver to local organizations. The minister of Assisted Living and Social services provided Lethbridge with $2,555,000 in FCSS funding for 2026, the same amount as 2025. In a statement the ministry said it’s committed to funding supports for seniors saying “Through Budget 2026, Alberta’s government is investing a record $6.6 billion to support Alberta seniors. We recognize the important role community-based organizations play in supporting seniors to remain active, connected, and independent in their communities.”
