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Friendly Calls: Connecting with Others during the Pandemic

November 23, 2020

From the Office for Social Ministry

As we all do our best to prevent the spread of COVID-19, staying safer at home remains a responsible and compassionate choice. But for many aging seniors who are living alone, this is not easy time. Recent studies show the coronavirus is causing an epidemic of social isolation and loneliness among older adults, implying even more increased health risks. Many describe feelings of frustration, stress and anxiety from a lack social relationships. The isolation they experience is further compounded by extended separations from their parish family and limited access to outside resources and services.

While the pandemic has challenged our faith communities to stay connected virtually through livestreamed liturgies and online meetings, these modern forms of technology can be uncomfortably foreign to many of our elders. One simple solution to address the isolation and reconnect with others can be as easy as going back to “old school” methods – by just picking up a phone and calling a friend! 

“Friendly calls” are already being conducted by the sisters of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts, as an outreach effort to stay connected with lay members during the pandemic. Our Lady of Sorrows has also mailed out wellness questionnaires and self-addressed envelopes to all registered parishioners. Those who responded have already received their first phone call, and so far, the effort is making a difference.

These kinds of friendly calls can also easily be organized at every parish in the Diocese! Ministry leaders who have access to contact information can partner with parish volunteers to divvy up the list and start connecting with folks beginning with the eldest and working down to the youngest. This exercise can help identify members who are feeling isolated and may be in need of support and essential goods. Once initial contact is made and specific needs identified, the parish social ministry team can then get involved to provide additional social services. Parishes can set up schedules to keep regular tabs on a weekly or monthly basis. By making “friendly calls” a part of our parish routine, we can all get through this pandemic together as One ‘Ohana!

Catholic Charities Hawaii also offers the Phone-a-Friend program, in which trained volunteers make regular calls to seniors who live alone or may be feeling socially isolated.  If you are interested in receiving calls or would like to arrange calls for your kupuna, call the CCH Senior Intake Line at (808) 527-4777, or visit their webpage for more information. For additional COVID-19 resources, please visit the OSM website.