GUELPH – Compass Community Services is taking over the Seniors Offering Support (SOS) telephone program from the Guelph Wellington Seniors’ Association (GWSA) this month.
The free-of-charge telephone service for isolated seniors will complement Compass’ existing telephone support services, including the distress line, TeleConnect, and the 2SLGBTQI support lines.
The ongoing goal of the SOS program will be matching volunteers with seniors through weekly telephone calls, helping to lessen isolation and improve support systems and community connections.
Throughout the pandemic, the friendly calls have provided a social lifeline and a sense of belonging for seniors while helping them to manage everyday challenges related to aging and independent living.
Ensure senior safety
“Adding the SOS service will augment our ability to ensure senior safety at a time when maintaining relationships and connectedness are vital,” said Compass executive director Joanne Young Evans.
“Volunteers and clients will share stories, reminisce, talk about interests, and learn about programs and activities. Knowing that they are valued members of the community and that people care about their wellbeing can make a tremendous difference in seniors’ quality of life.”
Compass will also take on current SOS volunteers in the transition, ensuring a seamless continuation of service and trust built between volunteers and clients.
“Compass Community Services is an organization with a vision and range of services which we know will better support our seniors – because everyone needs a little help now and then,” said GWSA president Brian Smith.
