International Day of Friendship Celebrated at Mercy Place Westcourt

International Day of Friendship last week saw residents at Mercy Place Westcourt receive a special surprise from some new friends.

That’s because teachers from Mother of Good Counsel school delivered cards, flowers and a video message to the not-for-profit home from the young students, who have been keen to send their elders good wishes at a time when the coronavirus pandemic continues to mean certain restrictions remain in place at the aged care home.

Mercy Place Westcourt Service Manager, Angela Cox, says friendships enhance and enrich our lives and International Friendship Day was a day to celebrate special relationships, and in this case ones that transcend age barriers.

“Sound friendships are connected to emotional wellbeing and we’re fortunate at Mercy Place Westcourt that many of our seniors have formed strong bonds with fellow residents and, until recently, they also enjoyed the company of local youngsters too,” she says.

“We obviously have had strict measures in place in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and for that reason haven’t been able to invite any local children into our home for activities with the residents, something which I know our seniors have missed enormously.

“However, dozens of handmade cards have arrived at our home. They’ve been delivered with lovely messages, as well as flowers and messages of goodwill on the video – they are wonderful acknowledgements of the residents’ situation. It puts a smile on the residents’ faces and they are incredibly appreciative.”

International Day of Friendship is a United Nations day that promotes the role that friendship plays in promoting peace in many cultures. It is observed on July 30 each year.

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