Make Meaningful Connections with the Friendly Visitor & Caller Program

The Friendly Visitor & Caller Program, a program designed to reduce social isolation, is being relaunched in Hinton.

Through the program, Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), a branch of the Town of Hinton, connects caring volunteers with individuals who could benefit from regular social visits.

“The number of people living alone in our community with no assistance, no family or friends nearby is staggering,” said Randy Smith, Individual Supports Coordinator for FCSS. “The loneliness and sense of isolation are depressing and destructive and can contribute significantly to negative health outcomes.”

FCSS matches isolated people to caring volunteers who spend one to two hours per week with their partner or make a regular phone call. Through conversations, attending events, or participating in activities together, a trusting friendship is formed. This can increase feelings of hope, worth, and connectedness.

Any senior or citizen who feels they need companionship may register for the Friendly Visitor & Caller Program. A recipient may be a newcomer to Hinton, a parent, a person with mobility challenges, an elderly individual, or any other person who may feel disconnected from the community.

Volunteer companions are friendly, intelligent, respectful, caring, and dependable people who care about brightening another person's life. All companions are screened and trained to ensure their suitability for the program and to ensure a compatible match is made with a recipient.

If you would like someone to visit or call you or would like to become a friendly visiting/calling volunteer, please contact Family & Community Support Services at 780-865-6036 or email fcss@hinton.ca.