International Day of Friendship on Tuesday 30 July will have special meaning for the residents living at Mercy Place Westcourt. That’s because an intergenerational program with the not-for-profit home and a local preschool will see the seniors join forces with a dozen four-year-olds to make friendship bracelets.
Preschoolers from Pelicans in the City have been developing a relationship with their ‘adopted grandparents’ since last August, during which time they have spent time with each other every other month for chocolate making workshops, singing activities and various morning teas.
Mercy Place Westcourt Service Manager, Angela Cox, says friendships enhance and enrich our lives and International Friendship Day is a day for celebrating special relationships, and in this case ones that transcend age barriers.
“We’re fortunate at Mercy Place Westcourt in that many of our seniors have formed strong bonds with fellow residents, and as a result we have a close-knit community where our elders genuinely enjoy each other’s company and friendships flourish,” she says.
“But it’s equally special for our residents to spend time with their younger friends on the day itself, and we are very pleased that they will be participating in an activity that they can all enjoy.
“This initiative also gives the youngsters involved a greater connection with older people and can teach important life skills and improve language and communications, plus the residents love spending time with their ‘adopted grandchildren’, so it’s just a win-win and lovely partnership all round.”
International Day of Friendship is a United Nations day that promotes the role that friendship plays in promoting peace in many cultures. It is observed on July 30 each year.
Mercy Health is a Catholic community not for profit provider of care, founded by the Sisters of Mercy and grounded in a 2000 year history of caring for those in need. The organisation is a national service provider of health and aged care throughout Victoria, Southern New South Wales, Western Australia, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory.
In Queensland, the organisation cares for 160 people at two residential homes, while managing an additional 139 independent living units and apartments.
Download full media release ( PDF, 428.2K )Last reviewed November 7, 2019.
