Having problems through the pandemic? Some help may be a phone call away

A simple phone call can go a long way.

That’s why the Saskatoon Public Library (SPL) and the Saskatoon Open Door Society (SODS) have partnered on a new initiative, called “Phone Buddy.”

The program allows Saskatoon residents, aged 18 and up, the ability to connect with one of 26 employees from SPL in a one-on-one phone conversation.

The program was originally created by SODS for seniors, aged 55 and up, to connect on a referral system with those struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to SPL’s Lise Fortier.

“We are hoping to have lighthearted visits. So, it’s going to be about 15 (to) 20-minute phone calls. We’ll be checking with people, see how they’re doing,” she said. “If they’re watching anything, if they’re working on their gardening, if they’re working on any other projects.”

SPL was looking for a way to connect with the community when they came across another library doing a similar program. Fortier says when they realized SODS was already operating the program for seniors, it seemed like a great first step for a partnership.

“With the library system, we were able to have a little bit more flexibility with how to get people contacted,” SPL’s senior manager of community education and partnerships explained.

Fortier says those interested can visit SPL’s website, where they can sign up and have an online forum for the program.

SPL can also match callers up with existing COVID-19 community resources, along with outreach workers if they need “a little bit more help than just a chat.”

The 26 employees also offer a diversity of languages, to make the program more inclusive.

Fortier says the program is still in its early stages, but that it reflects just what libraries were intended to be.

“To connect with patrons, because that’s something that’s great about working with the library, (making) connections with the community.”