ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A new effort is underway right now at USF St. Petersburg to connect students with seniors in the community.
The program called St. Pete Friends hopes to help both sides deal with isolation during COVID-19.
Students will be connected with a senior through one of three programs. They can then chat together on the phone or in a video call.
"We're really hoping that it could be more than just a quick call but it can be something that can continue," says Caryn Nesmith, Special Projects Manager for the Regional Chancellor at USF St. Pete. "But, we also think students have something to learn from seniors and seniors will be really welcome to people checking in on them. "
The project hopes to benefit all involved.
"Our students are particularly isolated right now. They're being asked to stay at home," explains Nesmith. "Students that were on campus had to return and we're looking for ways to connect with them because we know social connection just for the student success is an important factor for success."
USF St. Pete is still looking for students who want to take part and volunteer their time. Students can even write letters if they don't feel comfortable on the phone.
Getting involved is simple, just click here for more details.
