Hospitals in Action >> Case Examples

WASHINGTON REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER, Fayetteville, AR
Faith in Action

What is it?
Faith in Action is a volunteer-based program providing homebound seniors with free non-medical services to promote their independence, dignity, and quality of life since 1996. Trained volunteers help seniors and older disabled people with transportation, shopping, respite care, chores, yardwork, and minor home repairs. Volunteers also provide friendly visits to socially isolated residents and telephone reassurance to check in on those who are homebound and alone.

Who is it for?
Seniors and people with disabilities at least 60 years old in Washington and Benton counties, who have unmet needs for services such as adequate transportation and help maintaining their homes or living situations.

Why do they do it?
Faith in Action was born out of the need to provide urgent care and transportation to those without it in Northwest Arkansas. As of 1999, 18.7 percent of the Arkansas population was at least 60 years old, making it the sixth highest percentage in the country, and approximately 26.5 percent of these Arkansas seniors live alone. A national study in 1994-95 indicated that more than 6.5 million elderly Americans reported difficulties with activities of daily living, including preparing meals, shopping, and housework. Faith in Action's services give clients a new sense of independence and confidence and reduces their worries about how they will get to the doctor, buy groceries, or handle other necessary activities.

Contact: Sara Bartlett
Program Director
Telephone: 479-713-1725
Email: sbartlett@wregional.com