A Friendly Voice is a free, confidential “warm line” for older adults aged 55 and above living in Ontario and the Atlantic provinces (Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island). It’s a welcoming space where seniors can freely connect with a caring individual without expectations or judgment.
Whether you or someone you know is struggling with loneliness or simply looking to stay socially healthy and add some connection to your routine, we’re here to lend an empathetic ear and engage in delightful conversations.
Please note, A Friendly Voice is not a crisis line or referral service.
Our History
A Friendly Voice is a social service program offered by Rural Ottawa South Support Services (ROSSS). ROSSS is a non-profit, charitable organization committed to excellence in the delivery of rural community support services. ROSSS champions the wellness of older adults and adults living with disabilities by providing high-quality, innovative, and accessible health and social services that strengthen their capacity to live independently at home and age well in their rural communities. Rural Ottawa South Support Services is a registered charity. CRN 119259802RR0001
The program began in 2018 with the generous support of a Provincial Impact Grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, recognizing the growing crisis of loneliness and isolation faced by seniors in our communities. This funding was vital for getting this program running and we continue to be funded by local, provincial and federal grants.
Statistics Canada reports that an estimated 1.6 million elderly Canadians feel lonely.
Loneliness and social isolation can lead to significant physical and health issues for seniors that are as concerning as obesity, alcoholism or smoking.
Risk factors include:
- Living alone
- Being age 80 or older
- Having compromised health status, including having multiple chronic health problems
- Having no children or contact with family
- Lacking access to transportation
- Living with low income
- Changing family structures, younger people migrating for work and leaving seniors behind, and location of residence (i.e., urban, rural and remote).
A Friendly Voice is here to listen. Our trained volunteers offer an empathic ear and commitment-free conversation to seniors who just want to chat with a friendly person who cares.
Phone lines are open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Call Toll-free: 1 (855) 892-9992