Doris sat in the driver’s seat, frozen.

The whiplash from the accident was overwhelming. Her body was in pain.

As she caught her breath, she felt lucky to be alive. But she knew her life would never be the same.

The broken hip meant she could no longer drive. With no friends or family nearby to help, the world outside her apartment suddenly felt miles away.

Even simple things like getting food or visiting her doctor became impossible. Doris was alone and scared.

But her feeling of loneliness would be short-lived thanks to the CareGivers, the Catholic Charities NH program that would soon step in and make sure Doris always had someone to count on.

A Simple Life

Before the accident, Doris enjoyed small pleasures, like reading and going for walks. She never married or had kids. Her apartment was her sanctuary, and she wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.

When she lost the ability to drive, she would go days without talking to anyone.

Then she heard about the CareGivers, which provided rides, food deliveries, emotional support, and a sense of belonging for homebound seniors.

Ten years ago, she received her first ride to a doctor’s appointment through the program’s Caring Rides service and has been relying on them ever since. Whether it’s a regular checkup or a visit to a specialist, friendly volunteers are there to answer the call – and get her where she needs to go.

Each month, she also receives rides to the grocery store. Volunteers help her shop for what she needs, push the cart around, and even carry the groceries into her apartment, stocking her fridge and cupboards full of healthy food.

A Vital Emotional Connection

For Doris, it’s more than the rides and food. With no family nearby, the interactions with CareGivers volunteers make up most of her social interactions. They bring kindness, patience, and sometimes a good laugh.

Doris is shy and quiet. She admits opening up isn’t easy, but the volunteers have become like family to her.

“I could not have asked for nicer people,” she shared. “I’m very comfortable with them and they really look after me.”

She’s even formed special bonds with a few volunteers, including Charlie.

“When I need a ride, he’s always willing to accommodate my schedule to make it happen,” she says. “He and the other volunteers are so dedicated.”

Last year, Doris had cataract surgery. The constant appointments were stressful. Each time, a CareGivers volunteer showed up to drive her, listen to her worries, and help her feel calm.

“They truly cared,” she said. “I could not have gotten through it without them.”

Doris realizes life would be different if it weren’t for the CareGivers.

“When you are my age and you live alone, with no family or anyone to rely on, it’s very scary,” she shares. “I’m so grateful the CareGivers are there for me. Otherwise, I would have to give up my home, my life – everything that matters to me. But because of the volunteers and donors, I can keep going. I thank God every day for that.”