Santa Barbara County, CA, August 20, 2020 – In an effort to support dependent seniors through the pandemic, Community Partners in Caring has launched a county-wide effort to recruit and match volunteers with dependent older adults. The campaign began shortly after the shelter in place order was given, but because more and more older adults are coming forward, the need for volunteers continues to grow.
“The number of dependent seniors enrolled in our program is reaching 900. That’s more than double the number that were enrolled just 3 months ago,” said Vilma Contreras, the agency’s Executive Directors. “Homebound dependent seniors have always faced challenges to sustain daily living. The pandemic has exacerbated those challenges.”
Older seniors need help with simple everyday tasks. Community Partners in Caring volunteer’s pick-up/deliver groceries, deliver free food, they help enroll seniors into long-term programs/services that will help them through the pandemic and beyond, some volunteers provide rides to medical appointments, and many make “friendly calls” to help break up the day and reduce the isolation seniors are experiencing. In some cases, individuals can volunteer from the comfort of their own home.
“We have a strong cadre of dedicated volunteers helping the elderly in a variety of ways, but the pandemic has brought hundreds more to our agency – all seeking support to access basic needs, such as food and medical care,” Contreras explained. “That’s why we launched this campaign – to engage more people in this important work.”
As of August 20th, approximately 35 volunteers are needed in Santa Barbara/Goleta, 30 in Santa Maria/Orcutt, and 25 in Lompoc Valley. Volunteers must be over the age of 20 and pass a local/national background check. For more information call (805) 925-8000.
Community Partners in Caring, established in 1997, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide volunteer support services that allow our senior population to live independently while maintaining dignity, respect, and quality of life. For more information, visit www.partnersincaring.org or their Facebook page @PartnersInCaring
