Frauds and scams awareness and prevention for seniors was a highly informative and engaging event organized by the Philippine Centre Canada (PCC) in partnership with the Ottawa Valley Filipino Canadian Senior Citizens’ Association (OVFCSCA). The workshop, which took place on September 13 from 1 pm to 4 pm, was held at the Carlo Acutis Hall of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish. The event was made possible through generous funding from the Employment and Social Development Canada’s (ESDC) New Horizons for Seniors Program. It aimed to address the rising issue of fraud and scams targeting seniors by providing them with awareness and prevention strategies.

The workshop started with a comprehensive lecture by Mary Shkoury a knowledgeable expert in the field. She covered various topics including common types of scams, red flags to look out for, and practical tips on how to protect oneself from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes. Attendees were encouraged to actively participate during the lecture by asking questions, which were answered in a short question-and-answer portion.

One of the highlights of the workshop was the sharing session, where attendees were given the opportunity to share their personal experiences with scams and frauds. This allowed for a deeper understanding of the impact these incidents have on seniors and served as a platform for cautionary tales and advice.

The workshop was well-attended, with over 27 individuals present at the venue and an additional 8 attendees joining online. The high turnout is a testament to the importance of the topic and the shared interest of Filipino-Canadian seniors in safeguarding themselves against scams.

Overall, Workshop 3: Frauds and Scams Awareness and Prevention for Seniors was a resounding success. It provided valuable information and resources to empower seniors in recognizing and preventing fraud and scams. The collaboration between PCC, OVFCSCA, and ESDC’s New Horizons for Seniors Program showcased the commitment of various organizations to addressing the unique challenges faced by seniors in today’s digital age.

As the workshop series continues, it is evident that the PCC and OVFCSCA are dedicated to supporting the well-being and welfare of Filipino-Canadian seniors. By organizing events like these, they are not only fostering knowledge and awareness but also creating a sense of community and solidarity among seniors.