UK connections: War Widows Pen Pal initiative
A message from War Widows Queensland
Australian War Widows Queensland (AWWQ) has recently partnered with the War Widows Association in the UK to establish a Pen Pal Program for war widows across the two nations.
This collaborative effort presents a beautiful opportunity for war widows in both countries to share support and forge meaningful connections, whether through email or traditional mail.
The primary objective of the Pen Pal Program is to enhance social connections, provide support for those experiencing isolation, and cultivate enduring friendships among the participants.
The idea for the program emerged initially in response to the onset of COVID-19, recognising the isolation experienced by many war widows living alone. It provided a platform where war widows who couldn’t leave their homes could still connect, share experiences and find companionship.
The program includes war widows from all age groups: presently, the eldest participant is 98 years old. Participants within Queensland currently reside in Brisbane, Toowoomba, Rockhampton and Townsville, with interstate participants located in New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia.
A 90-year-old war widow has been exchanging letters with another war widow in her 50s for the past four years. Their connection has blossomed and they offer each other comfort and wisdom that bridges the gap between generations.
Recipients have shared how receiving a letter from their pen pal brightens their day. One lady remarked: ‘It has been truly wonderful; I’ve formed a close friendship with my pen pal, and both of us have greatly benefited from this initiative.’
Interested war widows Australia- wide can register by emailing lindy [at] warwidowsqld.org.au (lindy[at]warwidowsqld[dot]org[dot]au) or calling the AWWQ Head Office on 07 3846 7706. We encourage you to enrol in this program, bridging hearts across the continents.
Words have the power to heal, to comfort, and to inspire. They can mend broken hearts and bridge vast distances – Heather Vogel Frederick