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HomeShare - Creating lasting friendships

07 October 2022

Enliven HomeShare

Our Enliven HomeShare service brings a small group of older people together in a HomeShare host’s private home for friendship, fun and laughter. A volunteer host offers their time, home and hospitality to enable these connections to happen. They provide food, organise agreed upon activities and some simple structured exercises or a walk to promote health and wellbeing.

The difference these hosts make in the lives of older people is immense. The rewards do not just benefit the people attending, but the host as well. Some of our hosts have been part of the service for many years as they find it so fulfilling ‘giving back’ to others.

It’s wonderful to visit and see the smiles and laughter erupting from the group and to see friendships formed amongst people who may have previously been socially isolated in the community. These friendships sometimes extend beyond HomeShare visits.

 

Joy Jaccy Oct 2022 HomeShare

 

The joy of friendship

Jaccy is one of our HomeShare hosts living near Oxford in North Canterbury. She says her enthusiasm for hosting started after she retired and saw a need in the community. That was over 10 years ago, and her group now gets together twice a week for about five hours.

She says, “I love my gang… We chat, put the world to rights, drink tea and eat lunch.” Jaccy is frequently told what a difference this makes to families - giving time out for carers, and providing social interaction for those living on their own. “As long as I can, and I am needed, I will continue.”

HomeShare member, Joy, certainly believes in the benefits of the group, saying, “HomeShare has helped put me back to my old self and given me my hope back. I have enjoyed meeting new people and making new friends especially when they have similar health needs. The farm setting is super with nice walks and, of course, the animals. Jaccy also has a new puppy who is giving so much love. Her beautiful cuddles brighten up our lives in a deeper meaningful way. Jaccy is very kind and good company. The meals are made with love, are all homemade and there is always fresh baking.”

Photo: HomeShare host Jaccy, left and HomeShare member Joy, right.

Become a HomeShare Host!

If you would like information on how to become a HomeShare host and help others like Joy, click the button.

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