City of St. John’s Launches Toolkit and Info Sessions to Help Seniors Prevent Financial Fraud

The City of St. John’s is launching a new educational resource toolkit and a series of information sessions to help seniors and older adults recognize, prevent, and report financial fraud and scams.

With support from the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP), the City has developed a comprehensive toolkit designed to increase awareness of financial abuse, scams, and fraud affecting older persons. 

“Financial scams can have a serious impact on seniors’ independence, confidence, and well-being,” said Mayor Danny Breen. “These resources and information sessions will give people tools they can use to protect themselves, help them stay informed, and feel confident navigating an increasingly complex financial landscape. We’re proud to support initiatives that help keep our residents safe and connected.”

As part of this initiative, the City is hosting a series of in-person and online information sessions that will provide practical guidance on identifying scam warning signs, understanding common fraud tactics, and taking steps to protect personal and financial information. Participants will receive printed tip sheets and a resource list with contact information for local and national supports. This initiative supports the Building Safer Communities Strategy goal to increase public awareness and education.

Regular collaboration with community partners has helped shape both the toolkit and the sessions, ensuring the information is accessible, relevant, and practical. While the sessions are designed specifically for seniors and older adults, anyone interested in learning more about fraud and scam prevention is welcome to attend. Lunch or light refreshments will be provided, depending on the session time. In-person sessions have limited availability.

Schedule

• H.G.R. Mews Community Centre
  Monday, March 2, 12 to 2 p.m. (lunch provided)
• Paul Reynolds Community Centre
  Tuesday, March 3, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (lunch provided)
• H.G.R. Mews Community Centre
  Tuesday, March 3, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (light refreshments provided)
• Online Session (hosted by Seniors NL)
  Thursday, March 26, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Registration

Advance registration is required. Please register by February 20, 2026 to reserve your spot. You can register online or by calling 709-576-8411.

The City strives to offer accessible and inclusive programs and services. Venues for these sessions are accessible, with further details available on our Community Centres Webpage. 

If you require accommodation to participate, alternate formats for documents, or have dietary restrictions we should be aware of, please contact Robyn Dobbin at rdobbin@stjohns.ca or 709-576-8411 at least two weeks prior to event date.

These sessions are for informational purposes only. The potential scams covered are not intended to be an exhaustive list. Should residents have any concerns of a possible scam please contact the RNC at 709-729-8000.

Helpful Links:

City of St. John’s Safety webpage

Toolkit Resources:

• Preventing Financial Fraud and Scams, Resources and Information 
• Preventing Financial Fraud and Scams, Common Trends in Scams