Winter Relief for Isolated Elderly through DOROT Volunteer Effort
New York, NY (PRWEB) January 28, 2014 -- On Sunday, February 2, hundreds of volunteers will visit 450 frail seniors in their homes to offer them a reprieve from their social isolation through DOROT’s Winter Package Delivery. Bridging the age gap, volunteers will socialize with elders and deliver food and seasonal items that will help them during the winter months. The bitter cold and snow in recent weeks kept many older adults inside for their own safety. However, remaining indoors decreases their opportunities for interaction. DOROT’s Winter Package Delivery brings vital services to elders at a time of year when weather exacerbates their loneliness.
DOROT’s corps of volunteers reaches out to these seniors and creates a sense of community by engaging them in conversation and sharing experiences, which enrich both their lives. Families with young children also participate in this annual program, epitomizing DOROT’s mission of “generations helping generations.”
Occurring simultaneously in Manhattan and Westchester County, DOROT’s Winter Package Delivery serves older adults during a particularly isolating time, as the weather creates real challenges for vulnerable seniors. Most of DOROT’s elderly participants suffer from limited physical mobility and live alone – the presence of a volunteer friend, who also brings food, can greatly enhance their well-being. DOROT’s goal is to help these older adults maintain independent lives in their homes for as long as possible with the assistance of volunteers.
Executive Director of DOROT, Mark Meridy, said, “Volunteers are a driving force in DOROT’s outreach to the elders in the community. They extend an arm of caring to a population of seniors who are generally hidden from the public as many are physically unable to go outside. Encouraged to tap into the wisdom of our older friends, volunteers are provided with an orientation to ensure a meaningful experience while delivering a vital service, and both parties benefit greatly.”
DOROT’s Holiday Package Deliveries program, now in its 38th year, brings hundreds of volunteers to the homes of frail older adults to help dispel their loneliness. DOROT alleviates social isolation among the elderly and provides services to help them live independently as valued members of the community. We serve the Jewish and wider community, bringing the generations together in a mutually beneficial partnership of elders, volunteers and professionals.
Catherine DiTuri, DOROT, http://www.dorotusa.org/site/PageServer?pagename=homepage_DOROT, +1 (917) 441-3745, [email protected]
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