Introduction

Social isolation among the elderly is often described as a silent epidemic, and its consequences for mental and physical health are both severe and far-reaching. Prolonged loneliness is linked to increased risks of depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and even cognitive decline, making it not just a social issue but a pressing public health concern. In Lisbon, many seniors live alone in small apartments, with adult children or family members often residing far away, unable to visit regularly. Our program was created to address this growing problem by building meaningful bridges between generations and strengthening bonds within the community, ensuring that no senior feels forgotten or invisible.

We take great care in recruiting, training, and matching volunteers with seniors based on shared interests, personalities, and language preferences. This thoughtful approach helps foster genuine friendships rather than transactional encounters. A visit might involve sharing family stories over a warm cup of tea, taking a short but refreshing walk in the garden, playing a nostalgic game of cards, reading aloud from a favorite book, or simply sitting together in companionable silence. For many of our seniors, these weekly visits are the highlight of their week, moments they eagerly anticipate and hold onto as reminders that they are valued members of society. In turn, volunteers often find themselves enriched by the wisdom, humor, and life experience of those they visit, creating a mutually rewarding exchange.

Beyond companionship, our volunteers are specially trained to recognize early signs of declining health, changes in mood, or other well-being concerns that may require professional intervention. In this way, the program serves as a gentle but effective informal safety net, catching potential problems before they escalate. This campaign will enable us to expand the program into three new neighborhoods across Lisbon, reaching dozens more seniors in need. Funding will cover essential costs such as background checks for volunteers, training materials to ensure quality and consistency, and small activity grants for each match—resources that can be used for simple but impactful experiences like museum tickets, art supplies, or even ingredients for a shared cooking session. Our vision is not only to reduce loneliness but also to create lasting intergenerational connections that make Lisbon a more compassionate and connected city for all.

The Problem

Loneliness is not just a feeling; it's a serious public health issue. Isolated seniors are more susceptible to a range of health problems and often lack the support network needed to navigate challenges like accessing medical care or healthy food.

Our Mission

To alleviate loneliness and improve the quality of life for seniors in Lisbon. To create intergenerational understanding and respect. To build a more compassionate and connected city for all ages.

How Your Contribution Will Be Used

Funds will be used to scale our operations: hiring a part-time coordinator to manage more volunteer matches, developing more robust training modules on dementia awareness, and covering administrative costs like insurance for volunteers.

Stretch Goals

If we exceed our goal, we will launch a "Tech Buddies" program where volunteers help seniors connect with distant family via video call, and organize quarterly social events for all our matches to come together.

Why This Matters

Companionship is a fundamental human need. Your support ensures that our seniors feel valued, heard, and connected to their community, significantly enhancing their golden years.

Rewards for Donors

• $10 – A digital thank-you note from our team.
• $20 – A recipe card from one of our beloved seniors.
• $30 – Your name featured in our monthly newsletter.
• $50 – A handwritten poem by a volunteer and senior duo.
• $100 – A personalized video from a matched pair.
• $250 – An invitation to a special annual appreciation event.

Support Us

Help us fight the quiet pain of loneliness. Your contribution funds the simple, powerful gift of friendship. Join us in making Lisbon a city where no senior feels alone.