Connecting all members of society

Loneliness. Some call it an affliction; others call it a curse. Sadly, there are a number of elderly people in our communities who are lonely and unable to get out and about to meet people, socialise with loved ones or even visit family.

Age Concern is an organisation that is concerned with the aged in society—that is, those over 65 years, their friends and their whanau (wider family). Age Concern promotes “dignity, wellbeing, equity and respect” for older community members as well as offering information and advice about services that the elderly may need.  

To help the senior members of our community, Age Concern has a team of dedicated volunteers who are willing and able to visit our elderly in their own homes. They come with a generous heart, and are happy to have a cuppa and a chat with our older community members (nga koroheke). However, not only does it cost these volunteers their time but also the fuel costs in travelling between homes.

So, because it takes its social responsibilities seriously, Z Energy paid-it-forward $550 worth of fuel vouchers to Age Concern that were then distributed to their volunteers to help them in their quest to alleviate loneliness here in Aotearoa New Zealand. Each volunteer got a $50 voucher, making them feel valued and encouraging them in the work that they do, getting alongside those in the community who need a smiling face and a listening ear.

Z Energy customers (were you one of them?) were also part of the paying-it-forward, also generously giving of their money to Z. Next time your vehicle tank needs a refill, think about adding to the bill to help with the pay-it-forwards.

Let’s all do our bit to combat loneliness and the social isolation of the elderly.

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