Thanks to Virtual Hugs (launched in FY20 and continuing in FY21) we’ll deliver approximately 4,000 devices, directly impacting 40,000 and indirectly 80,000 lives.

Used devices were handed over to Close The Gap, which were responsible for refurbishing, disinfecting and sending them to institutions and money was used to buy new or used devices.

We simply set up a website to collect monetary donations and equipment. At the end of May, we worked together with the Flemish Agency for Persons with Disabilities (VAPH). Receiving financial support from the Flemish government significantly boosted our delivery capacity and after a few fruitful weeks, we extended our scope to centres that take care of people with disabilities. In addition to this, we were keen to launch a nationwide campaign. Bringing comfort and support to the elderly people seemed obvious to us, given the extreme health circumstances. Initially, our efforts focused on rest and care homes. Jointly created by Deloitte, Close The Gap and the VUB (Vrije Universiteit Brussel) in response to a clear demand from healthcare institutions in the early days of confinement, Virtual Hugs helps patients and the elderly to (virtually) connect with their loved ones. Well-disinfected mobile devices allow people to reconnect to each other in a totally secure manner. To alleviate the problem of loneliness while respecting measures of social distancing, we employed the use of mobile technologies. Very quickly, doctors sounded the alarm that isolation could significantly deteriorate the mental health of confined populations, especially those who could not be visited. No one should be embarrassed about reaching out for help, especially now.In the midst of the lockdown, we launched a simple and spontaneous project that aims to bring a little warmth and wellbeing to those who have been isolated during confinement.

That’s 14% higher than last year at this time. “77% of our callers are experiencing anxiety and stress. That’s 27% higher than last year at this time.” Lee stated in the news release. “We’ve noticed since the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic 43% of our callers are new to our hotline. With suicide rates climbing nationally and locally, Samaritans of FR/NB’s volunteers are answering more calls from more callers who are suicidal, the news release said. “Today, more than ever, it is critical that we raise awareness about suicide prevention and end the stigma around mental illness.” “Everyday Samaritans’ volunteers provide lifesaving services to people in need through our crisis hotline,” said Darcy Lee, Executive Director of Samaritans of FR/NB in a news release. This virtual event, powered by social media, is Samaritans’ first annual virtual fundraiser to support the hotline’s lifesaving suicide prevention and support services. Samaritans of Fall River/New Bedford, the region’s suicide prevention hotline, is kicking off National Suicide Prevention Month with the Southcoast Hug-A-Thon.

Virtual hug