COVID-19: Art of letter writing builds friendships, breaks isolation among Geraldton’s aged

A feelgood project in Geraldton has given older people a new lease of life. The Centacare Letters of Care and Cards of Care initiative with two aged care homes in Geraldton was developed to help the elderly beat loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Letters of Care is run with Juniper and Cards of Care is run with Acacia. People were invited to write letters or cards to residents. “What’s happened has exceeded the expectations of everyone,” said Kristy Geyson, co-ordinator of Centacare’s community volunteer service. “It started because we had volunteers ... (unable) to see people with the lockdown,” Ms Geyson, pictured, said. “It has brought so much joy to the elderly people. And we have been told it has brought much joy to the letter and card writers, and many have become pen pals. “The exercise has been so popular we think it will continue post COVID-19.”