Helping Whitby Seniors Connect Socially from Home During COVID-19

To help local seniors connect socially from home during the COVID-19 public health crisis, the Town of Whitby has launched the new Whitby Seniors Connection Line program and expanded its Seniors' Centre Without Walls program.

Quotes

“During this time, we know that many seniors are staying home to stay safe and may be feeling isolated. Our goal is make sure they can connect, learn more about the resources available to them and have some fun with others from the safety of their own homes.”

- Mayor Don Mitchell

“We’ve had more than 1,000 seniors participate in our programs to-date and we want to help as many people as we can. Whether you’re seeking information or a friendly voice to chat with over the phone, we are ready to answer your call and assist you in finding the support you need. We are also continuing to explore new virtual programming opportunities.”

- Sharon Meredith, Senior Manager of Recreation

“Being a blind senior with physical limitations, I really appreciate being able to listen and talk to others about interesting topics.”

- Sharon Johnston, a Whitby resident and participant in the Seniors Centre Without Walls program 

Program Details

New Whitby Seniors Connection Line

This program is intended to connect Whitby seniors with people who can offer information, support and friendly conversation during this time of physical distancing. To date, Town staff have placed more than 800 calls to Whitby Seniors' Activity Centre members. Due to the success of the program, the hotline is now being expanded to all seniors within the community. Residents can phone 905.668.1424 and leave their name and number to receive a call back.

Seniors' Centre Without Walls

Four times a week, local seniors can call in to the Seniors' Centre Without Walls program for an hour of engaging activities such as trivia, music and storytelling. Upcoming sessions include Memoir Writing Tips, Fun with Phrases and Sayings, and a chat with Olympic bobsledder and Whitby-born Cam Stones.
Call-in details for Seniors' Centre Without Walls, as well as a full schedule of programming, are available at whitby.ca/seniors. The program is offered in partnership with the Whitby Public Library.

For more information on the above programs, call 905.668.1424, email seniors@whitby.ca or visit whitby.ca/seniors