About Our Caring Companion Program
The Caring Companion Volunteer provides companionship, social connection, and practical support to seniors who may be experiencing isolation, loneliness, mobility challenges, or food insecurity. Volunteers help clients maintain their independence, well-being, and connection to the community through regular contact that may include in-person visits, telephone check-ins, grocery assistance, and occasional accompaniment to medical appointments. Volunteers and clients are carefully matched by common interests and language/culture.
Friendly Visiting & Phone Pal
Volunteers and clients are carefully matched by common interests and language/culture. The special relationship that can develop between a client and a volunteer enables the client to have greater social interaction and maintain healthy, independent living.
Medical Escorts & Grocery Pick-Ups
For current Circle of Care clients only
Volunteers escort clients to medical appointments via taxi, TTC, WheelTrans or iRIDE, which is paid for by the client – please note that the volunteers do NOT drive our clients. Volunteers can also pick up groceries for clients, based on orders that have already been placed at local grocery stores.
Eligibility
- Seniors 55+ who are identified as being vulnerable, lonely and isolated
- Live alone in their own homes or apartments
- Have little to no family support
- Have physical impairments that prevent them from leaving their homes on their own
- Are able and willing to have a volunteer visit them, or are able to hold a conversation on the phone
Service Area
The service area for this program runs from Rutherford Rd to St Clair Ave, and from Jane St to the Don Valley Parkway.
What Our Clients Are Saying
“Every week my volunteer and I sit down for a game of chess, a cup of tea, and a great conversation. We laugh and challenge each other. These visits aren’t just something to pass the time, they’re one of the highlights of my week.”
-Igor, 87 – client
