New York
Bon Secours New York Health System
Riverdale

Interfaith Caregivers 
The theme of the Interfaith Caregivers volunteer program is structured around seniors helping seniors. The effectiveness of this “free of charge” program stems from a natural entry point, conversation; and the lack of a generational gap. There may be cultural differences between volunteers and care receiver, (the name given to the persons we assist) however, they are outweighed by the wealth of similarities and interests. Neither financial status nor religious affiliation has ever been an issue; it’s about the caring and compassion we share and how much we learn from one another.

Serving Seniors
Most homebound seniors crave social contact; that need is fulfilled through the cheerful visit of our volunteers. One aim of our program is to improve the quality of life for the seniors we are privileged to assist, while allowing them to remain in their homes in surroundings that are familiar to them. We currently have 51 volunteers who serve 113 homebound seniors within the Northwest Bronx (approximately 12 sq. mile radius). The average age of our care receiver is 85.

Opportunities to Serve
Our major positions involve, escort to medical appointments, friendly visiting, light shopping, respite care for family members, and telephone reassurance calls between visits. Our end of year tally for hours volunteered was a conservative 4,470.  Sheer numbers alone demonstrate the financial contribution our volunteers make to our community. Our seniors are not in a position to hire a home health care aide since all fall just above the Medicaid level. 

"Each day I thank the Almighty for the generous gift He has bestowed on us; the Interfaith Volunteers."