Overcoming Loneliness in San Mateo County with Peninsula Family Service Loneliness is a growing public health crisis affecting people of all ages. Peninsula Family Service (PFS) is taking action to combat this issue through the “Overcoming Loneliness with Care and Connections” initiative. This program aims to raise awareness and provide support to those experiencing loneliness.
In collaboration with San Mateo County and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), PFS is leading efforts with a three-pronged approach:
Raising Awareness: Launching a campaign to educate the community about the mental and physical health impacts of loneliness. This includes community outreach and education during Loneliness Awareness Month in June.
Expanding Peer Counseling: Doubling the number of participants and peer counselors in the successful Peer Counseling Program for older adults. This program helps build social connections and reduce isolation, especially among underserved populations like older
African Americans, LGBTQIA+ adults, and Pacific Islanders.
Enhancing and Publicizing the Model: Working with UCSF to document the effectiveness of these programs and create a toolkit that other communities can use to combat loneliness.
“By addressing loneliness head-on, PFS is fostering a more connected and resilient community. Our goal is to ensure that no one in San Mateo County has to face loneliness alone,” said Charles Hansen, Chief Program Officer at PFS.
For more information, please visit PFS Loneliness Initiative.
