The newly established Golden Friends foundation has started in Heerhugowaard, in the municipality of Dijk en Waard, to help older people organise outings and connect with one another. The foundation says it wants to address loneliness and give older people the initiative in deciding what activities they would like to undertake. Its launch included a festival at theatre Cool, with two performances of a play written and performed by employees, volunteers and residents of the Pieter Raat Foundation.

The Pieter Raat Foundation is providing about 200 volunteers to help organise the activities. One example is wheelchair-bike rides for residents. Golden Friends says the plans are intended to help older people spend time outside their homes and to recognise their interests and abilities. The foundation has not reported specific future trips or a timetable for them.