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Coronavirus: Barrie offers free phone programs to seniors

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While Ottawa is contributing $9 million through the United Way to help support services for seniors during the pandemic, Global News is hearing from seniors who say that's not enough. – Apr 27, 2020

Amid people staying home during the novel coronavirus pandemic, the City of Barrie, Ont., has launched a free program that allows seniors to connect with each other through phone calls with multiple people.

The program will include a number of topics each week, ranging from “brain-stimulating” games to informal coffee chats, health and wellness sessions, as well as educational talks.

“The Seniors Centre Without Walls program provides a much-needed opportunity for seniors to connect and socialize, while following the physical distancing guidelines that are in place,” Barrie’s recreation manager, Steve Lee Young, said in a statement.

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“Many seniors live alone, and we know they are missing interacting with friends family in these challenging times. Now, with a simple phone call, they can connect, chat and hopefully make new friends in the community.”

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The free program is run by Barrie’s 55+ Centre staff and volunteers. Programs are 30 to 60 minutes in length and will be offered twice a day from Monday to Thursday.

The Seniors Centre Without Walls Schedule is available online. Those who are interested can register by email at recinfo@barrie.ca or phone at 705-739-4223.

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