Canada’s population is aging, and its consequences should be taken seriously. Not only Canada will likely experience a declining labour force, but 30 percent of the older adults will also likely be at risk of becoming socially isolated. In fact, In Toronto, one in four who are over the age of 65 are living alone and they are the most vulnerable to experience the negative effects of social isolation. Loneliness and isolation increase a person’s likelihood to develop depression and alcoholism. Social isolation also appears to be one of the major causes of a range of medical problems.
Despite the lifting of many COVID-19 restriction, many isolated seniors living alone in the downtown area does not only continue to struggle against loneliness, but they also face major hurdles in securing their food. Some seniors are unable to get their groceries due to health related and mobility issues. And some do not have enough money to buy their own groceries and food.
For this reason, the Society of Sharing put together a food pantry for the isolated seniors they serve to supplement their grocery needs. The pantry provides the seniors free food items and other essential items they need for their daily living. The pantry bags full of these items are delivered by a volunteer straight to seniors’ own home. However, as the number of seniors requesting food from the pantry continues to increase, the demand for volunteers is increasing as well. Society of Sharing is now looking to recruit more volunteers who has the following qualifications. The volunteer must:
- Be familiar in navigating the downtown core;
- Have availability on Wednesday, Thursdays, or Fridays between 9am and 5pm.
- Have excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.
- Have ability to multi-task and solve problems immediately.
- Possess the ability to raise or lift at least 40 pounds of weight
Please note that the use of own vehicle is not required for this role. If you or someone you know who is willing to volunteer as a grocery delivery, just send a resume to vrts@societyofsharing.org. Your help is needed now more than ever!