Many Amsterdammers of all ages feel lonely or need a buddy. Asking for help is difficult for some. But good news: help is available.
Loneliness is not something to be ashamed of. Almost everyone needs a chat, to drink coffee together, or to do something fun. In Amsterdam, there are many organizations that can help. They can connect you with a buddy.
‘Always nice weather’
Isa Lansing is a buddy of Wim Braxhoofden. Every week they enjoy a drink together at a brown café on the Middenweg. When they arrive, their beer and iced tea are already waiting for them. They are now well-known there.
Lansing: “We always joke that when I come here with Wim, it’s always nice weather. I study Social Work. Previously, I interned at the welfare organization Careibu. They connect students with seniors through the Student and Senior project. That’s how I met Wim. Because we clicked so well, I stayed on as a buddy after my internship.”
Concert
“It’s very nice for me,” says Braxhoofden, “Isa is a very pleasant girl. I always look forward to her visits. I don’t have family around me. We talk about many things. Sometimes we go on an outing. We also went to a concert together.” When asked if he can recommend such a pleasant buddy to every Amsterdammer, he answers emphatically: “Yes.”
Seeking or Offering Help
Loneliness occurs in every neighborhood and at all ages. It’s a difficult topic for many people. But feel free to ask for help if you feel lonely. Maybe you want to help an Amsterdammer who feels lonely. Everyone can contribute. Invite a neighbor for a cup of coffee. Or sign up for one of the many buddy projects.
Want to Know More
Do you want to know more about organizations that help? Are you looking for a buddy? Or do you want to become a buddy? For more information, visit Loneliness.
