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OCES

Congregate Housing Units in Bridgewater & Stoughton Now Available

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Plymouth County announces Congregate Housing Program availability in Bridgewater and Stoughton, MA.

Congregate Housing is a shared living environment where consumers have their own private bedroom, and communal living space such as kitchens and sometimes bathrooms. Openings are available to older adults and individuals with disabilities at the Bridgewater and Stoughton housing authority sites.  

The Heritage Circle Congregate, located at 10 Heritage Circle in Bridgewater has a total of 10 units. Currently, at this location there are three units available. In Stoughton, there are a total of 19 units at The Silva House located at 44 Pleasant Street with one unit available at this time.  

To be eligible for Congregate Housing, applicants must be 60+ years of age or have a permanent disability.

“Congregate Housing provides an alternative housing option for older adults and people with disabilities interested in a shared living environment to prevent premature or unwanted institutionalization and /or homelessness,” said Elizabeth Weiner, OCES Housing Programs Manager. “Congregate housing is a good option for individuals who find it difficult to live alone or who enjoy the security of living with others.”

The goal of Congregate Housing is to integrate community resources, information, and services while providing group living support, to enrich the lives of those residents.

The Congregate Housing Coordinator, a specialist from OCES’ housing team, conducts an assessment to determine the specific needs of every resident residing within Bridgewater, Marshfield and Stoughton Congregate Housing sites.  All residents at these sites are eligible for information and referral services, case management assistance, and access to social or educational programs. Depending on eligibility, many other services are available as well.

“OCES works with housing authorities in Bridgewater, Marshfield and Stoughton to support the residents,” explained Weiner. “Congregate Housing Programs are designed to create a community environment which allows residents to age in community.”

Those interested in Congregate Housing in Bridgewater or Stoughton can apply online by using the Common Housing Application for Massachusetts Public-Housing (CHAMP) application and checking off the Congregate box, or by contacting the Bridgewater or Stoughton Housing Authorities. Visit https://publichousingapplication.ocd.state.ma.us.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, housing authorities continue to accept applications, however the housing authorities may cease lease-ups in congregate units during the emergency, as social distancing is difficult in these settings  It is still important to be added to the wait list so that you are eligible for an assessment when lease-ups resume. 

To learn more about Housing Programs offered by OCES, visit https://www.ocesma.org/getting-started/housing-options/

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 25 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

Congregate Housing Units in Bridgewater & Stoughton Now AvailableRead More

Nurses are year-round heroes. OCES celebrates nursing contributions.

With 2020 designated as the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife, and National Nurses Week celebrated May 6th to May 12th, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Plymouth County, recognizes the essential care and contributions that nurses provide to the communities they serve every day.

“Nurses are central in the delivery of care and are on the front line in nearly every healthcare setting, from hospital to health care service agency,” said Nicole Long, CEO of OCES. “The role of nurses is essential and expansive, and the need for nurses continues to increase. OCES recognizes the vital contributions of our nurses and provides them with ongoing support and resources.”

OCES has been serving the community for 46 years and currently has a team of more than two dozen nurses who assist older adults and people with disabilities thrive in the community by helping to meet their long-term personal and health goals.

OCES’ registered nurses provide care to older adults through their Home Care (HC) program and Adult Family Care (AFC) program. OCES nurses conduct overall assessments of individuals which includes health and welfare, medical conditions and limitations, fall risk, the need for personal care, formal and informal supports, clinical eligibility for various program, among other needs, then draws from community resources and programs to help provide specific services needed. There is a tremendous collaborative effort between the various disciplines at OCES and with providers in the community.

OCES is continuously looking for talented individuals who support their core values to join their growing nursing team.

Long continued, “We recognize and celebrate the contributions of nurses, particularly during this incredibly challenging time in history. Their dedication to helping others not only strengthens our communities, but makes the world a better place. Nurses everywhere deserve our deepest appreciation.”

For more information about OCES, visit www.ocesma.org

The Year of the Nurse

2020 marks the bicentenary of the birth of Florence Nightingale. In recognition of the contributions of the founder of modern nursing, the World Health Organization has announced 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife. To learn more, visit https://www.who.int/news-room/campaigns/year-of-the-nurse-and-the-midwife-2020

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 25 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org

Nurses are year-round heroes. OCES celebrates nursing contributions.Read More

Abington Resident Named New Quality and Contracts Director at OCES in Brockton

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Plymouth County, has promoted Joelle Bellotti to Quality and Contracts Director. She is a resident of Abington, MA.

Joelle Bellotti

In her new role at OCES, Bellotti will report directly to Diana DiGiorgi, Chief Operating Officer at OCES. She will oversee the Quality and Contracts department and staff.  For two years prior to her promotion, Bellotti served as Contracts Manager overseeing more than 60 plus service provider contracts, provider audits and handling any issues with providers, OCES’ staff and consumers. 

Bellotti began her career at OCES in 2014 serving as a Care Manager in the Home Care Program for one year prior to being promoted to Home Care Program Supervisor. She was promoted again in 2017 to Contracts Manager.

Bellotti is a member of OCES’ Home Care Aide Council Board of Directors.

Bellotti holds a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Psychology from Saint Anselm College in Manchester, NH. She is a native of Abington, MA and graduate of Cardinal Spellman High School. 

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 25 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

Abington Resident Named New Quality and Contracts Director at OCES in BrocktonRead More

Old Colony Elder Services’ Nutrition Program is Still Running & Accepting Referrals

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the nonprofit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout Plymouth County and surrounding towns, is operating during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and continues to address the needs of their consumers and the local community.

In particular, OCES’ Nutrition Program and the Meals On Wheels daily home delivery of meals continues to run and is still accepting referrals.

Supporting OCES and Consumers

OCES delivers approximately 1,700 nutritious meals a day to older adults and individuals with disabilities living within 23 communities in greater Plymouth County. Due to COVID-19, the need for meals is dramatically increasing. All meals continue to be planned by a nutritionist, and with the help of volunteers, are delivered to individual homes.

Due to the increase demand for home delivered meals, OCES’ Nutrition program is currently recruiting volunteer drivers.

Another way to support OCES and their consumers at this time is by making a donation to their Emergency Fund or their Nutrition Department so they can continue to support consumers.

“We continue to provide services, including home delivery of meals, to older adults and individuals with disabilities to keep them safe and independent at home,” said Nicole Long, CEO. 

OCES’ number one priority is the wellbeing and health of their staff, consumers, volunteers and community. They are in close contact with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs, and the Department of Public Health, and are following their guidance as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended best practices. In addition, OCES is in close communication with their extensive network of in-home service providers, councils on aging, health care partners, and community partners to deliver services in a safe and effective manner.

All of OCES’ programs – from Nutrition and Home Care to Protective Services – remain in place and are operating. For new referrals, OCES’ nurses are conducting telehealth assessments. For more information or services from OCES, contact their Information and Referral Department at 508-584-1561. 

For all non-emergency COVID-19 pandemic related information, OCES directs community members to contact 211 or visit www.mass.gov.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 25 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org

Old Colony Elder Services’ Nutrition Program is Still Running & Accepting ReferralsRead More

Legislative Roundtable Held at OCES in Brockton. Supportive Housing is a Key Issue.

Left to Right: Speaking Senator Timilty, Joe Bellil of Easterseals, Karen Langley of REquipment and Gretchen Emmetts, Director of Pembroke COA


Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout Plymouth County hosted and co-sponsored the Greater Brockton Area Legislative Roundtable at their Brockton office on February 7, 2020.

The legislative roundtable breakfast had 34 in attendance including: Senator Michael Brady in the Second Plymouth and Bristol District; Representative Claire Cronin representing the 11th Plymouth District; Representative Michelle DuBois, 10th Plymouth District; Legislative Aide Matthew Hannon; Legislative Aide Kathleen Baxter; Legislative Aide Joanne Tierney; Representative Kathleen LaNatra, 12th Plymouth District; Representative Mathew Muratore, 1st Plymouth District; Mayor of Brockton, Robert Sullivan; Representative Alyson Sullivan, 7th Plymouth District; Senator Walter Timilty, Norfolk, Bristol and Plymouth District; and Brockton Housing Authority Executive Director Thomas Thibeault.

The event was co-sponsored by OCES, Independence Associates, and Easterseals Massachusetts. The three organizations, which have similar missions, discussed their priorities and goals, with supportive housing for older adults and individuals with disabilities being a central issue.  These agencies collectively emphasized the importance of REquipment who also attended this event to talk about the importance of the services and equipment that they offer the community. 

“The need for supportive housing for older adults and individuals with disabilities is increasing and will continue to do so over the next 10 years,” said Nicole Long, CEO of OCES. “Expanding the funding for supportive housing is imperative. Our funding goal would support at least 10 new supportive housing sites and an estimated 1,500 older adults living in public housing with enhanced coordination and access to long-term services and supports.”

Legislators discussed what they see are some of the key issues affecting people with disabilities locally and at the state level. Closing remarks were made by Steven Higgins, Executive Director of Independence Associates Center for Independent Living and Paul Medeiros, President of Easterseals Massachusetts.

About the Presenters

To learn more about Independence Associates, a Center for Independent Living, visit www.iacil.org. For more information about REquipment, durable medical equipment reuse, visit dmereuse.org. For additional information about Easterseals Massachusetts, visit www.easterseals.com/ma.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 25 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

Legislative Roundtable Held at OCES in Brockton. Supportive Housing is a Key Issue.Read More

“Buried in Treasures” Support Group in Brockton Begins February 4th

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout Plymouth County and the Greater Brockton Area Hoarding Task Force (GBAH) is offering a “Buried in Treasures” facilitated support group for individuals with hoarding issues.

For anyone struggling with clutter, compulsive acquiring, saving and hoarding, “Buried in Treasures” confidential support group begins Tuesday, February 4, 2020 and meets once a week for 15 weeks. 

“Buried in Treasures” is an educational, judgment-free, self-help group that meets from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at South Bay Community Services, 103 Commercial Street, Brockton. 

“Buried in Treasures” is available to people of all ages throughout greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. All attendees will receive a complimentary workbook. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.

For more information or to register for the Brockton support group, contact Terri Kourtz, OCES at (508) 584-1561 ext. 255 or Kelly Mules, at 508-580-4691 ext. 1812 for questions.  This program is free of charge.

What is Hoarding?

Hoarding is when individuals continue to accumulate items, such as clothing, newspapers and food, and then have persistent difficulty discarding possessions. Individuals with hoarding behaviors often face health issues related to falls, as well as run the risk of losing their homes.

This “Buried in Treasures” session is facilitated South Bay Community Services in partnership with OCES, and sponsored by GBAH, Mass Housing and OCES. 

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 25 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org. 

“Buried in Treasures” Support Group in Brockton Begins February 4thRead More

OCES Appoints New Community Programs Director

Brenda Carrens

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Plymouth County, has promoted Brenda Carrens to Community Programs Director.

In her new role at OCES, Carrens will report directly to Nicole Long, MSW, LICSW, Chief Executive Officer. She will oversee the Nutrition Program, the Volunteer Program, Healthy Living, and the Family Caregiver Support Program as well as the supervisors and managers of these programs. 

Carrens has been with OCES for 14 years and has worked with the Greater Plymouth County’s Retired Seniors Volunteer Program, Family Caregiver Support, Healthy Living, Volunteer, Money Management and Development Programs, most recently as the Volunteer Programs Manager. She has nine years of regulatory, financial and management experience previous to joining OCES.

Carrens holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Texas, El Paso. Additionally, she holds a Certificate in Aging from the Institute for Geriatric Social Work and a Certificate in Supervision and Leadership from the Center for Aging and Disability Education and Research, both from Boston University.

A lifelong volunteer, Carrens currently volunteers for Cancer Care “CABbies” (a 501(c)3 fundraising group to support cancer patients) and Meals on Wheels. She is a former volunteer Cub Scout leader, PTA board member, and Brewins Youth Hockey board member.

Carrens is a resident of Taunton.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 25 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

OCES Appoints New Community Programs DirectorRead More

Old Colony Elder Services recognizes 10 employees for years of service

Glenda DeVincentis, Lorry Wanat, CEO Nicole Long, Edna Gordon and Valerie Winters

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities, recognized 10 employees for their years of service in a ceremony held at OCES’ Brockton office.

During their annual staff meeting, OCES held an “All Staff Recognition Presentation” in appreciation of their employees’ hard work and commitment. Nicole Long, CEO of OCES, thanked all staff and presented several staff with award certificates honoring their years of dedicated service. Staff recognized were: Valerie Winters, Frances Cruise, Miriam Monteiro, Guerdy Seddoh and Zachary Walton for 10 years of service; Juanita Timson-Brown for 15 years of service; Richard Alvarnaz, Edna Gordon for 20 years of service; and Glenda DeVincentis and Lorry Wanat for 30 years of service.

“It’s a great pleasure to recognize our staff members for their unwavering dedication to our organization and in serving the community at large for many years,” said Long. “We appreciate the efforts of all of our employees as their contributions and commitment to our mission help us serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers in 23 communities in Southeastern Massachusetts.”

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 25 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

Old Colony Elder Services recognizes 10 employees for years of serviceRead More

Over $4K Raised for OCES’ Emergency Fund on #GivingTuesday. Fundraising campaign continues through Dec.

Old Colony Elder Services’ (OCES), the non-profit agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout the greater Brockton and Plymouth county area, received $4,425 in donations to their Emergency Fund on #GivingTuesday, December 3rd.

OCES’ Emergency Fund helps meet the needs of at-risk low-income older adults and individuals with disabilities who are in a crisis or emergency circumstance that threatens their health and/or living situation. In previous years, the Emergency Fund has been used to assist with fuel, utilities, short-term emergency shelter, medical transport, life-sustaining medications, hot water heaters and other needs.

“OCES’ Emergency Fund makes a critical difference in the lives of our consumers who are facing emergency situations,” said Nicole M. Long, CEO. “We truly appreciate all of the support we received on #GivingTuesday, as funds raised will enable us to assist those in critical need over the coming year.”

More individuals in need of assistance

Since the demand for assistance increases each year it is crucial for OCES to match or exceed last year’s #GivingTuesday donation total of $8,100.

“Each year, the number of individuals needing assistance grows and we need the help of the community to support our neighbors in need,” said Long. “Our giving campaign will continue throughout December. We encourage you to spread the word to family members, neighbors and friends about how they can support those in need in the community through our #GivingTuesday campaign.”

To make a donation to OCES’ Emergency Fund online, visit www.ocesma.org/donations/

Donations may also be made by check or money order and mailed to OCES, 144 Main Street, Brockton, MA 02301. #GivingTuesday donations will be accepted through December 31, 2019.

Since its founding in 2012, #GivingTuesday has inspired giving around the world, resulting in greater donations, volunteer hours, and activities that bring about real change in communities.

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

For more information, call OCES 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 25 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

Over $4K Raised for OCES’ Emergency Fund on #GivingTuesday. Fundraising campaign continues through Dec.Read More