PASADENA, Calif. (WHDH) — A nursing home in California has started a summer program that invites children to spend time with its residents.
Twice a week in June, children from Camp Villa visit the nursing home to befriend residents and help ward off isolation.
“It makes me feel alive again in ways I’d forgotten about,” said Sue Peace, a retired school teacher who volunteers with Camp Villa. “I like to play, now I’ve got some people to play with.”
Brice Harris Jr., 83, started Camp Villa. A retired college professor, Harris said hanging out with the children has renewed his love of teaching.
“Dealing with 9-year-olds isn’t that different from 19,” said Harris. “You’re still interacting and communicating ideas. That’s what did it for me.”
Many of the children said they appreciate visiting their new friends because they do not have grandparents who live close by.
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