Diakon’s Senior Connect Program Making a Difference for Older Adults

Luzerne and Wyoming Counties, PA (Thursday January 15, 2026)

Diakon’s free Senior Connect Program is helping older adults in Luzerne and Wyoming counties navigate everyday challenges, reduce isolation, and connect to critical resources through consistent, compassionate support.

Through weekly visits, regular check-ins, and individualized assistance, Senior Connect is designed to support older adults who may be socially isolated, struggling with daily tasks, or in need of connection to community resources. By building trusting relationships and providing consistent support, the program helps participants feel seen, valued, and empowered— all at no charge.

Maria H., a Senior Connect participant, shared her appreciation for the program, saying, “I love the program. Diakon is a good service provider. The program manager, Mary, has helped me with things I did not understand and helped with providing winter clothing, a microwave, other programs, and I love the time we share laughing and talking.”

Sisters Mercedes S. and Carmen M. also spoke about the impact Senior Connect has had on their lives. Both women have faced significant challenges, including housing insecurity and language barriers. They credit the program and Mary with helping them move toward stability and understanding.

“Diakon helped our life,” they said. “The program, thanks to Mary, has helped my sister get housing and not be homeless. Mary helps us understand paperwork and other services. We are blessed to have Mary and Diakon in our lives. We know Mary will come and text us, offering care and support. This makes us feel good knowing that someone cares and is helping us. We love the program.”

To expand this meaningful work, Diakon is also seeking volunteers to support the Senior Connect Program in Luzerne and Wyoming counties. Volunteers receive full training and can serve on flexible schedules that fit their availability. No prior experience is required, only a willingness to connect with and support older adults in their community.

Mary Cozzi-Webber, MSW, Diakon Program Manager for Senior Connect, added, “Senior Connect is about more than referrals. It is about relationship, trust, and showing up consistently for older adults who may otherwise feel alone. Hearing how this support has made a difference in people’s lives is exactly why this program exists.”

For more information about Diakon’s Senior Connect Program, please contact Diakon at Mary at (570) 728-0500 or Cozzi-webberM@diakon.org. Or you can send a message to the Diakon Senior Connect page on Facebook.

(This program is funded, in part, under a contract with the Area Agency on Aging for Luzerne and Wyoming Counties.)