Submitted photo/Sage Hill Law
Lyonel Doherty
Aberdeen Publishing
A new law firm in Oliver has introduced a social service called the “Buddy System” to help people impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In an effort to help the community during these difficult and isolating times, Sage Hill Law is facilitating a buddy system to ensure each member of the community has someone checking in with them and providing support if needed.
“I feel that in these times we have to find a way to help each other,” said office manager Harmony Powell, who noted that some people may not be able to get to a store because they are at risk.
“This is scary and anxiety-inducing for us all. I wanted to feel that I was doing what I could (to help).”
The system, covering the Oliver and Osoyoos area, is created with the priority of social distancing. There is no encouragement of face-to-face interaction; this service is via phone, groceries left on a front step, etc.
The system will ask buddies to connect via phone or text once per day to check in, say hello, have a chat, whatever works for the two buddies. If the person who needed a buddy cannot get to the store, their buddy will help them get groceries and drop them off outside of their residence.
If the buddy cannot provide support (sick, something changes, etc), Powell will find a new buddy
No money will change hands except to cover the cost of groceries.
Buddy forms can be filled out at www.sagehilllaw.com/buddy-system. Sage Hill Law is providing the Buddy System as a social service and do not vouch for or verify anyone using the service. Please use due diligence and be cautious sharing personal information with anyone that you have not personally verified. Be wary that people have and will use similar services to facilitate fraud or other crimes.
There is no financial cost to this service and anyone requesting funds does not act for Sage Hill Law.
