facility within the city of Mississauga opposed to the one where initially they were enrolled in.
(Achieved) Bingo Legalization: Frank and Bob played a pivotal role in advocating for the legalization of
Bingo for seniors, resulting in the city issuing licenses for seniors’ clubs to run Bingo games.
(Achieved) 5. Advocacy during COVID-19: During the pandemic, the MSC worked tirelessly to ensure that seniors were financially supported, leading to a $300 payment to all Canadian seniors. In addition, the MSC successfully pushed for a $500 payment for seniors aged 74 and older, along
with a permanent 10% increase in pensions. (Achieved) | 6. Community Centre Space: In 2019, Frank continued his advocacy by making a deputation to Mississauga City Council to secure meeting spaces for the Mississauga Seniors’ Council (MSC) at which point we were just considered seniors ADVOCATES. That’s when Carolyn Parrish – the city councillor at the time, moved a motion which was unanimously passed by all to secure the spaces they needed for their gatherings. (Achieved), In addition, Carolyn Parrish generously
gave $500 worth of cash to MSC. The MSC still continues to work on securing year round more space in community centers
dedicated to senior activities. (In progress) 7. Windrow Program (Snow Removal Assistance Program for seniors) The MSC helped establish this program, which supports seniors by clearing ploughed snowbanks in front of their driveways during winter, ensuring safety and mobility. (Achieved April 2025; to be in effect for
Winter 2025 and onward)
8. Free enrollment to all city run recreational facilities: All seniors 65+ should have free access to all city run recreation programs, inclusive of walking track, senior center, swim, skate, fitness
center, squash court and virtual classes etc.. (Achieved April 2025)
Continued Advocacy and Impact: Over the years, the MSC’s work extends beyond these milestones, as it continues to engage all levels of government including provincial politicians and organizations like the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) on behalf of seniors. The collective efforts of Frank, Bob, and late Bernard-affectionately known as the “three Unstoppables”-have made the MSC a
powerful voice for seniors rights and needs in Mississauga. Today, the MSC stands as a powerful legacy of the founders’ dedication to improving the lives of the seniors in the city. Their advocacy has ensured that the voices of seniors are heard, their
needs addressed and their concerns acted upon, making a lasting impact on the community. MSC lives on in the significant progress it has made and continues to make in improving the
lives of seniors across the city. If you’d like more information or would like to discuss how the MSC’s work could align with your
own interests or initiatives, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Best regards,
Robert Harrick – President – email: rharrick@bell.net. Cell # 416-786-5083
Frank Stendardo – Chair – email: fstendardo@hotmail.com Cell # 416-559-4993