The Senior Companion Program, Elder Disabled Supportive Services and The Friendly Visitors Service are all senior service programs currently operating under the sponsorship of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Fresno. Each program strives to serve the needs of the underserved elder community. The common goal of these services is to help foster independent living through advocacy, education, and peer-support programs. All those involved take every advantage available to encourage a sense of community in this often forgotten and expanding group.

Senior Companions The Senior Companion Program are seniors volunteering to assist other seniors is the foundation of The Senior Companion Program. The program is part of the Corporation for the National and Community Service network which helps to provide volunteer opportunities to help strengthen elder communities across the United States, Senior Corps. Senior Companions assist frail, less independent seniors with the goal of helping seniors remain living in their home longer. They provide respite care, a sense of safety and friendship to those who might not otherwise have a needful home service at their disposal. Companions are compensated for volunteering 20 hours a week by receiving a modest non-taxable monthly stipend, meal allowance, transportation reimbursement, and the proven health benefits of volunteering: better health and increased happiness. In addition to helping others, Senior Companions also enjoy the benefits of monthly community meetings facilitated by the Program where fun activities such as raffles and games take place. There are craft groups, bus trips, luncheons, an Annual Volunteer Recognition and special holiday events for volunteers to engage in as well. For volunteer opportunities in the Fresno, Madera, Merced and Kings County areas you can contact the program directly at 1-877-498-6377.

The Friendly Visitor Service The Friendly Visitor Service is a program designed specifically for the ever changing needs of the senior community. Care Providers from college campuses and the community assist elderly individuals 60 and over by performing such tasks as house-keeping, respite care, escort, yard work and non-medical personal care. Fee's for services are based on the client's gross monthly household income and range between $9.50 and $14.00 an hour. The service provided enables seniors to continue being productive members of society while providing experience and income for the care providers. Should you be in need of assistance and reside in the Fresno, Clovis area you may contact staff at (559) 225-3565.

Elderly and Disabled Support Services Catholic Charities and Fresno County's Adult Protective Services (APS) have joined together to have Catholic Charities provide specific emergency services to elderly and disabled persons. Emergency Services include: emergency shelter, home care, prescription assistance, utility assistance, food assistance and transportation. Individuals eligible for these services are those defined as dependent and/or elderly adults in Fresno County, who have an active Fresno County APS case. A dependent Adult is any person 18 through 64 years of age who has a physical or mental limitation that restricts his/her ability to care out normal activities of daily life. Elders are anyone age 65 and older. If you are a senior or know a senior or disabled person who needs adult protective services, have them contact Catholic Charities' Elder and Disabled Services at (559) 237-0851. Your request and information can be forwarded to APS and we will assist you in locating other resources available in the community.