MINNEAPOLIS — Coffee Talk, a statewide phone chat line for older adults, has been launched by Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly, a Minneapolis organization dedicated to easing loneliness and social isolation among older adults.
The drop-in chat line will connect older adults with trained volunteers for friendly conversation.
Outstate callers are encouraged to use the toll-free number 877-238-2282 and those in the Twin Cities metro can dial 612-746-0728.
Coffee Talk is open from 8 a.m. to noon, and callers may call as often as they would like during those hours. As the program expands, the hours may be adjusted to handle the call volume.
Coffee Talk will be staffed by volunteers who understand the older adult population's needs and challenges. They can offer words of encouragement and understanding and provide information about support and resources available in the person’s community.
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Calls are free, and callers may remain anonymous. They don't need to register or make an appointment.
“Shame and stigma often accompany loneliness,” said James Falvey, executive director for Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly, in a news release. “Coffee Talk provides an anonymous way for older adults to take active steps in improving their overall well-being.”
The Coffee Talk line is funded in part by a Live Well at Home grant from the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
To learn more, see littlebrothersmn.org/coffee-talk .
