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Volunteers check on isolated seniors during COVID-19 pandemic

Posted at 8:52 PM, May 19, 2020
and last updated 2020-05-21 17:56:27-04

WAUKESHA — Once per week, Cathy Bellovary calls 12 women who live in the Waukesha area to check up on them during these changing times.

“Some of them are very lonely obviously. They are tired of being in the house by themselves, so, they are so grateful to have someone else to talk to,” Cathy said.

Cathy is a volunteer with Eras Senior Network, a nonprofit with a mission to engage and support seniors and people with disabilities in Waukesha and Milwaukee counties.

Every week, 175 volunteers call 1,500 seniors as part of their Wellness Check program. It’s a program they started in March in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“During this time of the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to make sure each of our clients have what they need,” said Heather Uzowulu.

The volunteers make sure the seniors have enough food, medication and talk about emotional needs. For many, it’s the only conversation they will have that day.

“Our seniors are isolated besides the fact making sure they have enough food and medication, it’s also making sure they have someone to talk to each week so they are not as lonely as they might be feeling,” said Heather.

With the state suddenly reopening, Cathy said many seniors have expressed concerns but her goal is to make sure they have a network of people to support them.

To learn more about the Eras Senior Network, click here.

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