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Photo by Curtis Galbraith (EverythingGP)
Keep In Touch

County of Grande Prairie offering phone calls for seniors experiencing loneliness

Aug 2, 2021 | 6:00 AM

The County of Grande Prairie has launched a new initiative to connect seniors with volunteers for weekly phone calls, and is inviting any seniors feeling lonely to participate.

The Keep in Touch (KIT) program allows County residents over the age of 50 to connect with a volunteer for a weekly phone call.

“Our goal is to decrease loneliness amongst seniors and build connection and compassion through conversation,” says Dale Bond, Home Support Coordinator for the County of Grande Prairie.

Bond says the past year under the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions has been very difficult for people, and there has been an increase in loneliness, which this program will hopefully resolve.

“This is going to have a positive impact on both our volunteers as well as our seniors.”

The KIT program has already recruited and trained volunteers from around the Peace Region to speak with the seniors.

“Our volunteers look forward to the stories and wisdom that will be shared, and connections they will form in their conversations with residents. They will also be able to provide assistance with finding resources, if needed. It is our hope that seniors experiencing loneliness and isolation will reach out and register soon, to begin feeling the immediate benefits of this connection and support.”

The KIT program was developed by Volunteer Lethbridge and first launched there in 2020, and the County is now piloting it to see if it would be beneficial to rural communities.

“I feel like it will meet a significant need and the program is going to grow with time, for sure,” says Bond.

The KIT program is now open, and seniors can join by signing up at the County’s website or by calling Family Support Services at 780-532-9727.

Bond adds they would be happy to have more volunteers, who must be over the age of 18, join the program and take an hour or two a week to speak with local seniors. Those who wish to volunteer can get involved by visiting the County’s website as well.