Supporting connection, dignity and wellbeing for vulnerable seniors
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
A Masonic Grant via Lodge Fraternal has helped bring connection, comfort and care to some of Melbourne’s most vulnerable older community members through the National Council of Jewish Women of Australia Victoria Connect program.
With a combined contribution of $5,000 - $4,000 from Freemasons Foundation Victoria and $1,000 from Lodge Fraternal - the funding supported weekly gatherings designed to reduce social isolation and improve wellbeing among seniors, many of whom are Holocaust survivors from the former Soviet Union and members of culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
Delivered across community locations in Melbourne’s inner south, the Connect Seniors and Golden Age Club programs provide a welcoming space for participants to come together, share meals and engage in activities that support both physical and emotional health.
At the heart of the program is a simple but powerful idea: that connection matters. Each week, participants are offered nutritious, culturally appropriate meals - often the most substantial they will have all week - alongside gentle movement sessions, wellbeing workshops and opportunities to build friendships.
The program also plays an important role in preserving cultural identity, with themed activities recognising significant moments such as Jewish New Year and Holocaust Remembrance Day. Delivered in a culturally safe and familiar environment, the sessions are tailored to meet the needs of Russian-speaking seniors, helping them feel seen, understood and valued. For many, the impact is profound.
"For many participants, these weekly gatherings provide meaningful connection and companionship. Participants often tell us that attending [the program] is the highlight of their week and something they prepare for and look forward to," said Miriam Pacanowski of NCJWA Vic.
"Your support has also enabled us to engage specialist facilitators to deliver chair-based movement sessions and health education presentations, helping participants maintain mobility and independence.
"Your support not only enables this program to continue, but also sends a powerful message to participants that they are seen, valued and supported by the wider community."
Importantly, the program extends its impact beyond participants, engaging local Russian-speaking musicians, educators and small cultural providers - helping sustain community connections and support local livelihoods. Reaching more than 150 seniors and volunteers, the Connect program demonstrates how targeted, community-led initiatives can deliver meaningful, lasting impact.
