The Lower Similkameen Community Services Society is one of 10 agencies across British Columbia that recently received a United Way grant to start up a program to address loneliness called Java Social. Java Social is a gathering of people who meet weekly in a peer support environment.
The participants share with one another, building friendships, camaraderie and joy. Through peer support, sharing and outreach, the goal is to help isolated seniors meet their neighbours for meaningful social engagement and connection.
Patti Hillman,, is the Volunteer & Senior Services Coordinator of the Lower Similkameen Community Services Society writes:
“We started our Java Social and have had a social every Tuesday following. We have rotating locations to accommodate the seniors in the community based on their living location, transportation, and facilitation access.
With the initial start up we weren’t expecting a huge turnout, but it has been going really well. Keremeos can be slow to engage. The conversations have been really great. People have been able to let their guard down and show emotions.
We have had tears to belly laughs, frustrations and excitement. There are moments of quiet and it does take a little bit for people to get comfortable but once that happens, it is wonderful.”
Patti Hillman | Volunteer & Senior Services, Lower Similkameen Community Services Society