We have devised a way to help two vulnerable groups in Dutch society to help each other.

The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has enormous consequences, especially for our most vulnerable population groups.The elderly are one of them. Dwindling contact with friends and family, limited understanding of communication devices and social distancing often cause them feelings of isolation and loneliness. Another badly hit group we have identified are refugees. United Way the Netherlands is now enabling these two groups to help each other.

Our project Reaching the Unreachable is starting a new chapter under the title Joining Forces. The essence of the project is that carefully selected refugees are matched with senior citizens and conduct video calls with them. This will mean that the elderly participants can onnect with their loved ones and become part of the digital world. The refugees will gain greater understanding of Dutch society and Dutch culture. Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, contact between the elderly person and the refugee will take place remotely.

This unique project is already bearing fruit. Please watch the video above to find out more about it.

For additional information please contact Cedar Cox-McAllister: cedar.cox-mcallister@unitedway.nl

 

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