The Senior Companions Program is looking for volunteers in Bonner and Boundary counties to provide companionship and respite care to the elderly and disabled. The Senior Companions program β sponsored by the Panhandle Health District β allows volunteers an opportunity to assist those who need some help in order to continue living independently.
Senior Companions are 55 years of age or older who provide a meaningful service to homebound individuals and their families through weekly home visits. The Senior Companions program had around 54 volunteers in , and that number has since dwindled down to 36 volunteers. However, the client list has done the opposite and has continued to grow, reaching up to community members requesting a companion.
Because of the lack of volunteers, seniors have been put on a waiting list until more volunteers become available. Currently, there are 10 volunteers on the Bonner County waitlist. Panhandle Health public information officer Katherine Hoyer said the program has eight volunteers in Bonner County and just two in Boundary County.
Ideally, she said, Bonner County should have 12 volunteers and Boundary County should have five. The goal of the program is to help the clients live as independently as possible. Senior Companions is offered to clients free of charge.
Volunteers receive a tax-free hourly stipend, mileage reimbursement and other benefits. Along with being over 55 years of age, volunteers must have reliable transportation, be willing to volunteer at least five hours a week and be able to pass a background check. Companions and clients are matched based on shared interests and experiences to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
