What an unusual turn of events it is that the social isolation we strive to overcome among our elderly clients is now so instrumental in keeping us all safer. As you know, it is not in VISTE’s DNA to isolate and turn away volunteers, so this has been a challenging time for us as well. This month, we’ve created a newsletter intended to connect the entire VISTE family, share stories of clients and volunteers, highlight upcoming activities, identify current needs, and provide information on how you can help keep us moving forward. Email us to subscribe!
Amid this pandemic VISTE’s mission to help our elderly family members, friends, and neighbors remain safely and independently in their own homes has suddenly taken on new meaning and significance. Fortunately, community support remains strong! Thanks to you and an incredibly dedicated team of core volunteers and staff, nearly 2,000 of our most vulnerable seniors continue to receive food, transportation, and in-home care without interruption. For many clients from 70-106 years of age these services are essential all year round.
At the same time, volunteer Phone Pals have expanded their weekly calls with homebound clients to include those celebrating birthdays and regular volunteers who are sheltering in place during this outbreak. None of us are immune to the negative effects of social isolation, and we are extremely grateful to these volunteers for keeping us more connected.
Thank you for continuing to bring care and hope to the frail and elderly we are privileged to serve all year round. We miss you and look forward to gradually reconnecting as it becomes safer to do so. Blessings to you all!