In a nation celebrated for its community spirit and mateship, up to 40% of elderly people living in Australian aged care homes never receive a single visitor during their entire stay. This statistic inspired the creation of Connect the 40%, an uplifting program dedicated to bringing happiness to seniors through free gifts and experiences. Built on the idea of reconnecting people with kindness and care, the initiative encourages everyday Australians to spread cheer via its easy-to-use website.
At the core of Connect the 40% is an inspiring model: Generous members of the public visit the Connect the 40% website, explore profiles of seniors in aged care facilities, and buy personalised gifts or experiences tailored to their wishes. These profiles share heartwarming insights into residents’ lives, transforming numbers into touching personal stories. From a cosy blanket or a beloved book to an exciting outing, every gift arrives straight to the senior, creating bonds and sparking delight.
Jakob Neeland, who helps lead the program, shares the emotional challenges of isolation, especially during holidays. “Feelings of isolation and loneliness can fester within aged care homes throughout the year, but these feelings are amplified in the holiday season, with seniors who don’t receive visitors seeing many of their fellow residents receive visits from family and friends,” Neeland says.
He celebrates the simplicity and power of the requests: “Many of the gift requests that we receive are small and humble requests, but it is amazing just how big an impact receiving a gift can have for someone in this position.” Neeland also highlights the positive effects, adding, “Unfortunately, a lot of loneliness and feelings of isolation are accompanied by a feeling of a loss of self, and a personalised gift that speaks to that person as an individual helps to reinforce their individuality.”
Recently, Neeland personally fulfilled a resident’s dream request to visit the Dandenong Mountains. The pair enjoyed a wonderful day out in the Dandenong Ranges, taking in a lookout with stunning 360-degree panoramic views and stopping in Sassafras for fresh scones with jam and cream. Stories like this showcase the program’s ability to create memorable moments and lasting smiles.
The program is buzzing with excitement from a fresh media campaign designed to inspire more donations, particularly as Christmas draws near. It shone brightly on Sunrise Weekends, highlighting the initiative’s positive impact and calling for community support. In the coming days, Connect the 40% will feature on the beloved Australian TV show A Current Affair, spreading its joyful message even further and motivating Aussies to help seniors in need.
A key to the program’s thriving success is the steadfast support from Foxtel, its main sponsor for several years. Thanks to Foxtel’s kindness, Connect the 40% now runs all year long, reaching beyond holidays to brighten the days of hundreds of Australian seniors nationwide. This collaboration keeps the good vibes flowing, enabling more heartwarming connections and fun experiences.
With the festive season here, Neeland extends an enthusiastic invitation: “If you would like to make a difference in the life of a lonely or low-mood senior this Christmas, please visit www.connectthe40.com today.”
In a world where online links sometimes take centre stage, initiatives like Connect the 40% highlight the magic of giving. By linking communities with aged care residents, it delivers not just gifts, but renewed energy, happiness, and a warm sense of belonging to Australia’s cherished seniors.
