Vulnerable and isolated seniors are getting some much-needed help to connect with others and not feel so alone during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The United Way of Chatham-Kent has partnered with VON Erie St. Clair, Big Brothers Big Sisters, CK Public Health, St. Clair Catholic School Board, Lambton-Kent District School Board, Riverview Gardens, and the Age Friendly Advisory Committee to launch an initiative that will bring student volunteers and struggling seniors together virtually.
“We want to combat the mental and physical health effects of social isolation in older adults and the youth of Chatham-Kent alike during this pandemic and beyond,” said Cathy DeBresser Knowler, a public health educator with CK Public Health. “There is no health without mental health."
Studies have shown that declining mental health can lead to a range of chronic diseases and coexisting mental and physical conditions can diminish quality of life that leads to lingering illness and worse health outcomes.
"We're hoping to bring comfort to those who may not have grandchildren or grandparents in an effort to create lifelong relationships," Knowler said.
The United Way said this initiative will also help secondary school students get their mandatory 40 hours of volunteer time to graduate.
Seniors make up 21 per cent of Chatham-Kent's population with nearly 24,000 people, which is higher than the national average.
Gigit community, a free all-in-one social platform that was developed locally will power the program.
Visit www.gigitstudent.com to register for this program.