A community service that contacts elderly people each morning came into its own during the recent cold spell.
The Good Morning service, which started in Inishowen, then opened in Falcarragh and Donegal Town, provides vital daily contact to older people living on their own.
The free service proved especially invaluable during the recent severe weather, whi
ch confined many older people to their homes. In rural areas, some homes could not be reached by car or bus, leaving residents even more isolated and vulnerable.
The service did a magnificent job during the cold spell, along with Meals on Wheels, Care of the Aged, St.Vincent De Paul, Donegal Mountain Rescue and others who were out in treacherous conditions making sure our older people had essential supplies.
The main purpose of the Good Morning service, which is run by the HSE and staffed by volunteers, is to ensure the older person is safe and well in their home. It also connects the older person to the community and delivers up to date information on relevant services for the older person.
The older person agrees a time for their daily phone call. If the call is not answered, the volunteer will ring a designated contact and ask them to check on the client. In the event that they cannot make any contact, the volunteers ring neighbours or family member. If that fails, they contact the local Public Health Nurse or, if all else fails, the gardaí.
All the volunteers have been vetted by gardaí and fully trained. They are friendly and positive and build up great rapport with their clients. They give their time freely and find that they really enjoy meeting other volunteers and clients. Many volunteers are retired people who wish to make a contribution to their communities.
The Good Morning Service is now expanding in south west Donegal, an area that extends from Bundoran to Glencolumbkille, Killybegs to Glenties and Ardara, and all towns and villages in-between.
More volunteers are needed to meet the anticipated demand for the service. Volunteers are asked to commit to two hours per week. Application forms can be collected at the St. John Bosco Centre, Donegal Town on Wednesday mornings or by calling the Good Morning Service Office in Buncrana.
Any person aged over 65 either living alone or acting as carer to a spouse or family member who can access the service. Many of the Day Care centres, Care of the Aged, St.Vincent de Paul or Social Services offices have application forms.
If you need further information, application forms for clients or volunteers, please call Frances at the Good Morning Service’s main office in Buncrana on (074) 932 1598.
