The Friendship Line is a signature program of Institute on Aging, and has never gone unanswered since it was founded in 1973 by Dr. Patrick Arbore. Dr. Arbore’s observation that “connection to others binds us to life” led him to establish the Friendship Line, which is both a “warm line” and a crisis intervention center for routine – even daily – phone calls that provide emotional support and friendly conversation.
Institute on Aging’s staff and volunteers field approximately 11,000 inbound and outbound calls per month. The nationally-known Friendship Line is a program of Institute on Aging’s Center for Elderly Suicide Prevention and Grief-Related Services, and is accredited by the American Association of Suicidology.
This program serving the community is funded by the City of San Francisco’s Department of Disability and Aging Services.
Friendship Line
Center for Elder Suicide Prevention and Grief Services
Institute on Aging (IOA) CONNECT is your direct line to us and the starting point for help with your concerns about the needs of older adults and adults with disabilities. IOA CONNECT links you with our services, as well as community services available. Reach out to connect with us.
Phone: (415) 750 – 4111 | Fax: (415) 750 – 5338
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