Over the past two years, the world has experienced a deadly pandemic, one that has taken millions of lives, negatively impacted global economies, and elevated longstanding inequities. Restrictions on physical contact, the closure of many public venues, and fears about the rapid spread of Covid-19 have further exacerbated the loneliness epidemic that has been increasingly impacting individuals of all ages.

How can we heal from this pandemic and restore a sense of human connectedness? New models of care are needed, particularly for young children and older adults, that intentionally focus on building meaningful relationships, not just providing services.