New York

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 "A few months ago it would have been hard to imagine that our country would be facing a global pandemic which would force social isolation from friends, family and community. As a teenager I am very lucky to have my parents and sister with me every day. But so many people are not as fortunate. When my Grandma was living in a local nursing home we visited her several times a week. When social distancing began I immediately thought of the residents in nursing homes and how lonely this would be for them. Feeling connected to other people is now more important than ever and I am very happy to be able to bring this program to New York and be a part of this worthy mission." 

  "When my brother told me about this pen pal project I was very excited to get involved and help spread the word to all of my classmates and friends. Being isolated at home from family and friends has been very hard. Online classes and zoom calls with friends has helped me feel connected but many senior citizens are alone and they can’t even speak to anyone. It makes me really happy to know that my emails will help them feel connected and will let them know that someone is thinking about them."