A $20,000 age-friendly grant has been provided to the Village of Granisle to help expand its Healthy Granisle project.

"There is no big secret to aging well other than to remain physically active and eat properly," said Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad. "This is a valuable program that can have a positive effect on the health on a whole community."

Through the project, the village will develop indoor and outdoor programming vital to the improvement of the overall health and well-being of local residents, including the First Nations community of Tachet.

Health and exercise professionals will work with the community to explore and encourage increased participation in activities such as healthy cooking classes, Tai Chi, walking or hiking the local trails and learning how to use exercise equipment safely.

"Our community is extremely proud of the efforts we continue to make by offering programs which enhance the quality of life in our small and vibrant community," said Linda McGuire, mayor of Granisle.

The age-friendly communities grant program is a partnership between the Province and the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM). Local governments were invited to apply for grants up to $20,000. For the 2017 grants, communities were encouraged to consider projects that focus on accessibility, aging well, physical activity and non-medical home supports. Granisle is one of 18 municipalities to receive a 2017 age-friendly grant.

Applications were reviewed by a committee from UBCM and the Ministry of Health. Since 2007, age-friendly communities grants have funded 286 projects throughout British Columbia, totalling $3.75 million.