ShoreUp Foster Grandparent Program helps to combat senior loneliness and helps academics for youngsters

SALISBURY, Md – The winter months can be filled with gloom and separation for seniors but ShoreUp’s Foster Grandparents program is helping to make them and their children not feel so alone,  matching over 50 seniors with babies and toddlers in need of some warmth and wisdom.

“They look at you as if to say ‘mom,-om I need a hug,’ well when they say in need of I give one,” said Senior Volunteer Eveela Cornish who has been part of the program for over 8 years.

She says she finds the program to be a rewarding way to help children learn, and a fun way to stay active when playing with them at the ShoreUp playground.

“I teach them that they have to be very, very respectful to one another. I would like to see some on the side speak. It, be respectful to one another, keep their hands to themselves and not loud talking,’ she said.

Program Director Joyce Ferrara says the program has over 60 seniors and helps thousands of teens across their locations in Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset counties.

“We participate in all of the activities in the school-based program, and for the volunteer, it reduces isolation. It keeps them actively involved in the community. And they love what they do because they love working with children,” Ferrara said.

Cornish says her children are adults now and moved out but with this program – she has a whole new outlet for all the love she has to give.

“It took me a while but I am here and I’m not going nowhere,” Cornish said.