In a recent community meeting, residents of Bridal Meadows shared their experiences in an intergenerational living space designed to foster connections between children from foster care and elderly residents. Cathy, affectionately known as \"Grandma Cathy,\" recounted her journey to the community after losing her husband in 2016. Struggling with income, she found solace and purpose at Bridge Meadows, where she has become a vital support for families, fostering 14 children and adopting two.

The design of Bridal Meadows encourages interaction and mutual support among residents. Cathy emphasized the importance of community, stating, \"If ever you need that connection, it's there for you.\" The community also prioritizes the well-being of its elder residents, providing assistance for medical appointments and other needs.

In a parallel discussion, Dixon Chibanda, founder of the Friendship Bench in Zimbabwe, highlighted the innovative approach to mental health care through the involvement of grandmothers. With a severe shortage of mental health professionals in Zimbabwe, Chibanda trains older women in cognitive behavioral therapy, enabling them to provide support to those struggling with depression. He shared a poignant story about a client, Erica, whose tragic death spurred him to create a community-based mental health initiative.

Chibanda's program has expanded significantly, now involving over 2,000 grandmothers who find purpose in helping others. He noted that the grandmothers experience improved health outcomes and a sense of belonging through their work. The Friendship Bench model is being adapted for use in other cities, including Washington D.C. and New Orleans, demonstrating the universal need for community support and the healing power of storytelling.

Both discussions underscored the transformative impact of community connections, whether through intergenerational living or innovative mental health initiatives, highlighting the essential role of shared experiences in fostering resilience and healing.