OCES

OCES is Participating in the March for Meals Campaign. Nutrition Program in Urgent Need of Support.

February 26, 2026 // by admin

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA…

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in greater Plymouth County is participating in the March for Meals campaign, a national effort to raise awareness about senior hunger and the importance of nutrition services.

The March for Meals campaign is a month-long initiative that kicks off March 1, 2026.

OCES’ Nutrition Department is facing unprecedented budget deficits that could threaten their ability to provide essential meals and other nutrition services to vulnerable older adults.

This year’s campaign also comes at a time when consumers are facing skyrocketing food prices and food insecurity continues to increase across the region.

While OCES has efficiently utilized its resources, it is still facing a budget deficit that puts the Nutrition Program at risk. A donation to OCES will help to bridge the budget gap and ensure that their Nutrition programs continue to provide:

· Nutritious Meals on Wheels to homebound older adults who rely on us for sustenance

· Community Dining meals and socialization opportunities that combat loneliness and isolation

· Nutrition education and counseling that promotes healthy eating habits

OCES’ goal during this campaign is to raise $20,000.

Every donation brings OCES closer to their goal of ensuring that no older adult in the community goes hungry. A donation of $25 will fund 3 meals; a donation of $100 will fund 12 meals.

Craig and Diana DiGiorgi are generously matching all donations made to OCES in support of the Nutrition Program up to $5,000.

To donate, visit ocesma.org/get-involved/donate. Donations may also be made by check and mailed to OCES, 144 Main Street, Brockton, MA 02301.

OCES is recognized as a tax-exempt charitable corporation under section 501c3 of the IRS tax code.

About OCES

OCES is recognized as one of the 2023, 2024 and 2025 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 51 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities.

Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit ocesma.org

OCES is Participating in the March for Meals Campaign. Nutrition Program in Urgent Need of Support.Read More

OCES Staff Supports Families in Need with Donations to Three Organizations During the Holiday Season

December 29, 2025 // by admin

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA…Staff at Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, are supporting those in need of assistance by providing food, gifts and other essential items during the holiday season.

OCES staff participated in the “Adopt-a-Family” program at My Brother’s Keeper in Easton. The team purchased gifts of clothing, toys and games for five families and then volunteered onsite to wrap gifts.

To fight food insecurity in the community, OCES’ Protective Services team spearheaded a staff food drive and collected non-perishable food items, which were delivered to two food pantries – Damien’s Food Pantry in Wareham and the Charity Guild Food Pantry in Brockton.

During the holiday season and beyond, OCES takes pride in giving back to the communities it serves. OCES encourages employee involvement through volunteering, donating or community service.

For information about My Brother’s Keeper, visit www.mybrotherskeeper.org.

For information about Damien’s Food Pantry, visit damiensfoodpantry.org.

For information about the Charity Guild Food Pantry, visit thecharityguild.org

To learn more about OCES, visit ocesma.org.

About OCES

OCES is recognized as one of the 2023, 2024 and 2025 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 50 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities.

OCES Staff Supports Families in Need with Donations to Three Organizations During the Holiday SeasonRead More

10 Local Caregivers Honored During National Family Caregivers Month

December 22, 2025 // by admin

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA… Ten local caregivers were honored with Caregiver Appreciation Awards at a special luncheon acknowledging National Family Caregivers Month in November. The luncheon was held at Fireside Grille in Middleboro, MA.

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts,
recognized caregivers who were nominated by their family members and peers in celebration of their selfless work of caregiving.

Caregiver Appreciation Awards were presented to:

Nydia Alvarez of Brockton, a dedicated caregiver and advocate for a family member:

Kim Benson of Bridgewater, a primary caregiver to two adults since 2011;

Joan Coulstring of Whitman, a primary caregiver to two young children;

James Doherty of Abington, a dedicated caregiver to an adult for several years;

Mary Flanagan of Duxbury, a primary caregiver to a family member for five years;

Michelle Kirshkaln of East Bridgewater, a dedicated caregiver to a family member for four years;

Kim Marie Moran of Pembroke, the primary caregiver to a family member and a caregiver to a friend’s family member for several years;

Marlene McDonald of Foxboro, a primary caregiver to two family members for a few years;

Marge Nutter of Stoughton, a dedicated caregiver to a family member for years; and

Kevin Sipola of Plymouth, the primary caregiver to a family member and a speaker at OCES Caregiver Support Group meetings.

“It is our pleasure to honor these remarkable individuals for their steadfast dedication, extraordinary compassion and care,” said Nicole Long, CEO. “We thank everyone who nominated these special caregivers for recognition.”

She continued, “All caregivers have a vital role of enhancing the lives of others. OCES remains committed to supporting caregivers.”

Family Caregiver Support Program
Each caregiver’s situation is unique and complex. OCES has a Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP) that provides caregiver support in the creation of a personalized plan outlining available resources (including OCES programs and other community information) applicable to their caregiving situation. These resources may include caregiver support groups as well as educational workshops or programs that share techniques to help family caregivers with stress reduction, time management, goal setting, problem-solving, relaxation and more. The FCSP works with people of all ages including grandparents raising grandchildren.

To learn more about OCES’ Family Caregiver Support Program and to subscribe to OCES’ informative newsletter, visit ocesma.org.

About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023, 2024 and 2025 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 50 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities.

Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit ocesma.org

10 Local Caregivers Honored During National Family Caregivers MonthRead More

Raising Funds for Behavioral Health and Wellness Programs. Old Colony Elder Services Kicks Off #GivingTuesday Campaign

November 18, 2025 // by admin

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA… Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest non-profit provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, kicks off this year’s #GivingTuesday campaign with a goal of raising $20,000 for their Behavioral Health and Wellness programs.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately one in every five adults in the United States live with a mental illness. OCES’ Behavioral Health and Wellness programs help older adults (age 60 and over) and individuals with disabilities who may be isolated or encounter barriers that limit access to behavioral health care, and who may benefit from long-term care management or counseling due to behavioral health issues, chronic illnesses, substance abuse, or crisis situations.

OCES’ Behavioral Health Outreach For Aging Population (BHOAP) Program provides in-home one-on-one counseling and support, as well as referrals and resources on a case-by-case basis. This #GivingTuesday, December 2, 2025, help OCES reach its goal of raising $20,000 for Behavioral Health and Wellness programs.

Donate online to OCES’ #GivingTuesday campaign; visit https://ocesma.org/get-involved/donate.

Donations may also be made by check or money order and mailed to OCES, 144 Main Street, Brockton, MA 02301.

GivingTuesday donations to OCES may be made through the end of the calendar year. OCES is recognized as a tax-exempt charitable corporation under section 501c3 of the IRS tax code.

Donations will be matched by the Law Office of Paula M. P. Schlosser, up to $1,000.

Help spread the word! Share this message on social media to support OCES’ efforts to uplift older adults and individuals with disabilities in our community. Be sure to include #MentalHealthMatters.

To learn more about GivingTuesday, please visit www.givingtuesday.org.

About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023, 2024 and 2025 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 50 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities.

Raising Funds for Behavioral Health and Wellness Programs. Old Colony Elder Services Kicks Off #GivingTuesday CampaignRead More

OCES Announces Thanksgiving Meal on November 26th for Community Dining and Meals on Wheels Recipients

November 12, 2025 // by admin

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA… Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest nonprofit provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, has announced that a special meal will be available in November at community dining sites and will also be delivered to Meals on Wheels recipients.

On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, OCES will provide a delicious Thanksgiving meal featuring roast turkey, whipped sweet potatoes, butternut squash, pullman wheat bread, and apple pie. A reservation for the Thanksgiving meal must be made in advance. People in need who are not current recipients of OCES services are welcome to attend and are encouraged to call OCES if they are experiencing worsened or additional food insecurities due to SNAP changes.

Nutrition Program

OCES’ Nutrition Program, which consists of Meals on Wheels, Community Dining, and Grab & Go meals, is critical to many older adults. Through OCES’ Nutrition Program, hundreds of nutritious meals are delivered each Monday through Friday to adults age 60+ living within 23 communities in greater Plymouth County.

These nutritionally-sound and satisfying meals are planned by a nutritionist. OCES offers a variety of meals including medically-tailored meals (low sodium, cardiac meals, etc.) and seasonal meals throughout the year.

With the help of hundreds of volunteers, “Meals on Wheels” are delivered to individuals in their homes. Each visit provides a safety and wellness check while addressing food insecurity, malnutrition and social isolation.

Meals on Wheels and Community Dining menus are published in COA newsletters and on OCES’ website at ocesma.org/programs-services/nutrition

For a list of Community Dining meal sites, visit ocesma.org/nutrition/community-dining

Please call the meal site to make a reservation in advance.

For more information about the Nutrition program, Meals on Wheels or Community Dining, call OCES at (508) 584-1561.

Please note menus are subject to change.

OCES Announces Thanksgiving Meal on November 26th for Community Dining and Meals on Wheels RecipientsRead More

Old Colony Elder Services Recognized as a “2025 Best Places to Work” Honoree

September 19, 2025 // by admin

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA… For the third consecutive year, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, has been recognized as a “2025 Best Places to Work” honoree by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing.

OCES was recognized as one of 38 honorees for the 2025 Best Places to Work in a well-attended ceremony on September 4, 2025, at Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod in Hyannis, MA. The award was presented to Anna M. Dee, Chief Operating Officer of OCES.

Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing’s 2025 Best Places to Work were voted based on criteria which included company culture, career advancement, staff appreciation, and giving back to the community. OCES’ emphasis on work/life balance, opportunities for advancement, and their Above & Beyond recognition program are among the many aspects that set the organization apart as an employer.

Founded in 1974, OCES has grown to 240 full-time employees and 30 part-time employees, as well as 21 members on their Board of Directors. The nonprofit’s leadership team includes Nicole Long, Chief Executive Officer; Anna Dee, Chief Operating Officer; Alisa DeLage, Chief Programs Officer; Yolanda America, Chief Finance Officer, and Rob Buckel-Gillis, Human Resources Director.

“OCES is incredibly honored to be named a Best Places to Work honoree for the third consecutive year,” said Anna M. Dee, COO of OCES. “Our staff has a common goal of providing the very best for the community.”

OCES aspires to be a culturally diverse and inclusive agency that removes barriers, creating equity for all by empowering individuals and communities to thrive, age in place, and reach their highest potential.

About 2025 Best Places to Work
For more information about Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing’s annual award event, the 2025 Best Places to Work Sponsored by Brabo, visit https://capeplymouthbusiness.com

About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023, 2024 and 2025 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth BusinessMarketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 50 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities.

Old Colony Elder Services Recognized as a “2025 Best Places to Work” HonoreeRead More

OCES to Honor Caregivers During National Caregivers Month – Nominate a Caregiver

September 10, 2025 // by admin

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA… During National Caregivers Month, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, will celebrate dedicated caregivers who make a positive impact in others’ lives.

The number of caregivers in the U.S. has risen significantly. According to data from the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP’s Caregiving in the US 2025, the number of family caregivers has grown to 63 million – or one in four – American adults.

OCES is honoring the selfless dedication of caregivers who make a real difference in the lives of others and is inviting individuals and companies to nominate a family member, friend, or associate who has gone above and beyond to care for someone in the community.

From now through October 6, 2025, OCES is accepting nominations of local caregivers (within OCES’ service area) to be highlighted during National Caregivers Month in November.

“We look forward to celebrating our community’s caregivers, sharing their stories and honoring their commitment to caregiving during National Family Caregivers Month,” said Nicole Long, MSW, LICSW, and CEO of OCES.

Throughout November, OCES will spotlight each nominated caregiver, sharing their story in a special Caregiver Edition newsletter and across our social media channels.

To nominate a caregiver, please visit https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/3dG5Aos/caregiver

Nominated caregivers will be notified. To view a map of OCES’ service area, visit https://ocesma.org/about-old-colony-elder-services.

Providing Support & Resources for Caregivers
OCES’ Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP) provides caregiver support and resources to individuals in OCES’ service area. For more information about caregiver support visit ocesma.org/programs-services/caregiver-support or call 508-584-1561.

About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023, 2024 and 2025 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth BusinessMarketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 51 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities.

Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit ocesma.org

OCES to Honor Caregivers During National Caregivers Month – Nominate a CaregiverRead More

Seniors at Stoughton Adult Day Health Complete Digital Literacy Course with OCES Traveling Computer Lab

August 20, 2025 // by admin

STOUGHTON, MA… Nine older adults at Stoughton Adult Day Health recently celebrated completing a six-week basic computer skills course through the “Traveling Computer Lab – Digital Literacy for Older Adults” program. Offered by Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the program aims to bridge the digital divide and equip seniors with essential technology skills for greater confidence and independence.

The digital literacy course, tailored specifically for adults aged 60 and older, provides in-person, hands-on instruction with the goal of enhancing independence, social connectivity, and access to vital online resources. Over the span of six weeks, participants attended a total of eight engaging sessions held at their familiar community setting.

During the course, the group gained confidence using laptops. Core topics covered the basics of computer use, along with using Microsoft Windows to improve typing skills and learning how to navigate the internet.

“The class was really helpful—most older adults were hesitant to use computers before, but they feel more comfortable now,” said Armindo Rocha, Volunteer Programs Manager at OCES.

The Traveling Computer Lab is a mobile program that rotates monthly to new sites across the region, bringing digital literacy training directly to older adults in Councils on Aging, senior centers, and housing communities. By providing all necessary equipment, including laptops, Wi-Fi, and printed materials. The program removes common barriers to access and ensures participants receive personalized, step-by-step guidance at their own pace.

Through this initiative, OCES is not only teaching older adults how to use technology, but also fostering greater confidence, social connection, and safety in the digital world.

For more information about the Traveling Computer Lab or other services offered by OCES, visit ocesma.org or call (508) 584-1561.

About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth BusinessMarketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 50 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities.

Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit ocesma.org.

Seniors at Stoughton Adult Day Health Complete Digital Literacy Course with OCES Traveling Computer LabRead More

OCES Honors Dedicated Community Programs Director as she Retires

August 7, 2025 // by admin

BROCKTON, PLYMOUTH, AND TAUNTON, MA…

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, honored Brenda Carrens, Community Programs Director, as she retired after 20 years at OCES.

Carrens has been instrumental in the growth and success of OCES. During her OCES career, Carrens worked with the Greater Plymouth County’s Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP), Family Caregiver Support, Healthy Living, Money Management, Development, and Volunteer programs. Most recently, Carrens was the Community Programs Director overseeing Nutrition, Volunteer, Healthy Living, and Family Caregiver Support operations as well as the supervisors and managers of those programs.

Dedicated to helping others and giving back, Carrens is a lifelong volunteer for schools and other charities. She is a Metro South Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, and a volunteer for OCES’ Money Management and Meals on Wheels programs. Carrens previously served on the Cancer Care Community Advisory Board (CABbies) a volunteer fundraising group that supported cancer patients.

“Brenda has made a tremendous impact on many individuals and families through her tireless efforts, leadership and dedication to OCES and the community over the past 20 years,” said Nicole Long, CEO of OCES. “Congratulations Brenda! OCES will miss you and we wish you all the best in your retirement!”

Carrens has been a resident of Taunton, MA for 25 years.

About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 51 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities.

OCES Honors Dedicated Community Programs Director as she RetiresRead More