Read more about Old Colony Elder Services new website in The Patriot Ledger http://www.patriotledger.com/lifestyle/50_plus/x1452735787/Old-Colony-Elder-Services-launches-new-web-site
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Old Colony Elder Services
Old Colony Elder Services Raises Over $6K through “Cooking for A Cause” Fundraiser to Keep Meals on Wheels Program Rolling
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) raised over $6,000 for the Meals on Wheels and Congregate Meal site programs from their “Cooking for a Cause” family-friendly event held at the Middleboro Council on Aging. Several hundred people attended and enjoyed delicious food from participating restaurants and an outdoor concert with the summertime sounds of the the very popular BaHa Brothers band.
With a growing number of elders needing meal assistance and less money to support the Nutrition Program due to budget cuts, the non-profit agency acted quickly to launch their first annual “Cooking for a Cause” fundraiser for the Nutrition Program, which operates Meals on Wheels and congregate meal sites.
OCES wishes to thank all the restaurants that provided the delicious food for the event: Burrito Wraps of Brockton, RooBar in Plymouth, Veronica’s Treats of Middleboro, Mike’s House of Pizza in Hanson, Lindley Food Service of Connecticut (the caterer for Meals on Wheels), Stop & Shop, Hideaway Restaurant in Middleboro and the Middleboro Council on Aging. The agency also thanks all who donated the fantastic raffle prizes, which greatly contributed to the fundraising efforts.
“We are very fortunate to have the support of our sponsors, all these wonderful restaurants and the vendors that generously contributed prizes for our raffles,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.
The event was sponsored by: Home Instead of Bridgewater; Bayada Nurses of Plymouth; Senior Whole Health in Cambridge; Robbins Furniture of Rockland; George Washington Toma of Brockton; Liberty Printing Company of Brockton; Hackewell-Boone Insurance Agency of South Easton; Everett’s Auto Parts of Brockton; A&A Metro Transportation Bill’s Taxi Service, Inc. of Avon; Avida Design of Brockton; BC Tent Awning Co. of Avon; Bridgewater Savings Bank of Raynham; Fitzgerald Appraisals of North Easton; Evercare of Waltham; Diman Laundry of New Bedford; Geriatric Home Health Care Inc. of Avon; Good Samaritan Medical Center of Brockton; Anodyne Homemaker Services Corp of Quincy and the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce of Brockton.
“It is imperative that we have initiatives in place to raise additional funding so no senior goes hungry. It costs approximately $35 to provide one senior with a week’s worth of meals. The Cooking for a Cause event was a great success and we intend to make it one of our annual fundraisers,” explained DiGiorgi.
About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services; Home Care and more.
OCES offers these programs in the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.
The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.
In 2009, OCES was honored with the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 140 employees. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.
Old Colony Elder Services to Hold Tasty Fundraiser for Meals on Wheels Program on June 26
Due to budget cuts and a greater number of elders needing meal assistance, the non-profit Old Colony Elder Services has come up with a unique way to raise money for the Nutrition Program, which
runs the Meals on Wheels and congregate meal sites. OCES will hold a “Cooking for a Cause” family-friendly event on June 26th from 11 AM-4 PM at the Middleboro Council on Aging, 558 Plymouth St., Middleboro.
Attendees will be able to sample tasty cuisine from area restaurants including: Burrito Wraps of Brockton, RooBar in Plymouth, Veronica’s Treats of Middleboro, Mike’s House of Pizza in Hanson, Lindley Food Service of Connecticut (the caterer for Meals on Wheels), Stop & Shop, Hideaway Restaurant in Middleboro and the Middleboro Council on Aging. There will be entertainment by the Baha Brothers and face painting for the kids. Raffles will also be held. Prizes include: signed sports memorabilia; museum and zoo passes; amusement and water park passes; vineyard tours; transportation packages to Cape Cod islands; restaurant gift certificates; whale watch tickets, Boston sightseeing tour tickets; artwork, a large dollhouse designed by a local crafter, home decor and many other items.
Tickets to the event are $15 for Adults, $12 for Seniors, $7 for 10 & Under. For tickets, call OCES (508) 584-1561. Tickets will also be available at the door.
“Because of increasing costs and budget cuts, OCES cannot keep up with the demand of the growing senior population and increasing needs without other funding sources. The competition for grants is tough and we needed to find a way to raise the additional funds necessary to keep the Nutrition Program running. To serve the growing number of seniors who rely on Meals on Wheels and the congregate meal sites, it is imperative that we have an initiative in place so no senior goes hungry,” explained Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.
Sponsors include Anodyne Medical Services of Quincy, Home Instead of Bridgewater and Bayada Nurses of Plymouth.
About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services; Home Care and more. OCES offers these programs in the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman. The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.
In 2009, OCES was honored with the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 140 employees. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.
Old Colony Elder Services to Hold Tasty Fundraiser for Meals on Wheels Program on June 26Read More
Old Colony Elder Services Sponsors Event on June 15th at Brockton City Hall to Raise Awareness of Elder Abuse and Neglect
June 15, 2010 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD),and Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), is sponsoring a special event that day at Brockton City Hall to create greater awareness of elder abuse and neglect.
Mayor Linda Balzotti will commemorate the day at the Brockton City Hall event which is being held from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Opening remarks will be made by Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES and speakers include: Ann Hartstein, Secretary of Elder Affairs; Timothy Cruz, Plymouth County District Attorney; Tom Donahue, Brockton Elder Police Officer; Deborah Fogarty, Director of Protective Services; Patricia Foley, Protective Services Intake Specialist and Terri Kourtz, Protective Services Supervisor.
During the event, an elder’s story will be read and ribbons and educational material will be given out. OCES staff will recognize the importance of the day by wearing the color purple.
The event is open to the public and will be held at Brockton City Hall at 45 School Street at 2:30 p.m.
According to the World Health Organization, the population of those aged 60 and over will more than double by 2025. As the elder population grows, so will the number of elder abuse cases.
Elder Abuse ranges from physical, sexual, psychological and economic abuse to neglect. OCES outlines warning signs of abuse from the National Center for Elder Abuse.
Physical Abuse ‐ Slap marks, unexplained bruises, most pressure marks, and certain types of burns or blisters, such as cigarette burns
Neglect ‐ Pressure ulcers, filth, lack of medical care, malnutrition or dehydration
Emotional Abuse ‐ Withdrawal from normal activities, unexplained changes in alertness, or other unusual behavioral changes
Sexual Abuse ‐ Bruises around the breasts or genital area and unexplained sexually transmitted diseases
Financial Abuse/Exploitation ‐ Sudden change in finances and accounts, altered wills and trusts, unusual bank withdrawals, checks written as “loans” or “gifts,” and loss of property
During the last 11 months, OCES has helped 794 abused or neglected elders within their service area. OCES has a Protective Services staff of 11 with 71 years of combined experience. The Protective Services department helps elders who have been victims of abuse by providing resources such as medical, legal, psychological, financial and housing assistance.
To report suspected elder abuse or neglect, contact OCES at (508) 584-1561 or the statewide Elder Abuse Hotline at 800-922-2275.
About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services; Home Care and more.
OCES offers these programs in the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.
The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.
In 2009, OCES was honored with the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 140 employees. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.
Old Colony Elder Services to Hold Cooking for a Cause Fundraiser for Meals on Wheels Program on June 26
Due to budget cuts and a greater number of elders needing meal assistance, the non-profit Old Colony Elder Services has come up with a unique way to raise money for the Nutrition Program, which runs the Meals on Wheels and congregate meal sites.
OCES will hold a “Cooking for a Cause” family-friendly event on June 26th from 11AM-4PM at the Middleboro Council on Aging, 558 Plymouth St., Middleboro.
Attendees will be able to sample cuisine from area restaurants and enjoy entertainment by the Baha Brothers, face painting for the kids and raffles. Tickets are $15 Adults, $12 Seniors, $7 for 10 & Under.
For tickets, call OCES (508) 584-0561. Tickets also available at the door.
Participating restaurants include: Burrito Wraps of Brockton, RooBar in Plymouth, Veronica’s Treats of Middleboro, Mike’s House of Pizza in Hanson, Lindley Food Service of Connecticut (the caterer for Meals on Wheels), BJ’s Wholesale of Stoughton, Hideaway Restaurant in Middleboro and the Middleboro Council on Aging.
Sponsors are also needed. Sponsorship levels vary from the “Bronze Baker” $500 commitment to the “Platinum Platter” $5,000 commitment. Event program advertisements are also available. Sponsors who RSVP immediately will be included on all marketing materials.
“Because of increasing costs and budget cuts, OCES cannot keep up with the demand of the growing senior population and increasing needs. The competition for grants is tough and we needed to find a way to raise the additional funds necessary to keep the Nutrition Program running. The number of seniors who rely on Meals on the Wheels and the congregate meal sites is growing exponentially and it’s imperative that we have an initiative in place so no senior goes hungry,” explained Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.
Interested vendors and potential sponsors should contact Lucille Dallaire at OCES (508) 584-1561.
About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services; Home Care and more.
OCES offers these programs in the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.
The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.
In 2009, OCES was honored with the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 140 employees. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.
Old Colony Elder Services launches new “Sponsor A Senior” Program
Massachusetts ranks as the 39th highest state for seniors suffering from food insecurity. Currently, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), a non-profit Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) located in Brockton, delivers more than 1,100 meals to seniors and individuals with disabilities each day. But, the need keeps on growing and OCES is appealing to the community for support with the launch of their “Sponsor A Senior” Program.
OCES provided 335,000 meals last year and anticipates a significant increased need during 2010. Funding constraints and the current economic climate make it difficult to keep up with demand. The Sponsor A Senior program is an ongoing fundraiser that will support OCES’ Nutrition Program and help to offset costs while ensuring that no senior goes hungry.
How it Works
Individuals and businesses may Sponsor A Senior by making a donations at sponsorship levels are as follows:
One week of meals – $35
One month of meals – $140
One year of meals – $1,680
Each donation made will benefit a local senior. All donations to the Sponsor A Senior program are tax-deductible. Checks or money orders made payable to Old Colony Elder Services can be mailed to:
Sponsor A Senior
Old Colony Elder Services
P.O. Box 4469, 144 Main St.
Brockton, MA 02303-4469
Through OCES’ Nutrition Program, nutritious meals are provided to low-income, frail elders and individuals with disabilities. Many face obstacles that include mental and physical problems, financial strain and the loss of companions and friends. OCES’ Nutrition Program promotes better health through improved nutrition and social contact, which helps keep individuals in their homes rather than institutions.
“Individuals and area businesses CAN make a difference in the life of an elderly family member, friend or neighbor. The Sponsor A Senior program is a tremendous way for people and businesses to give back to the community,” explained Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.
For questions about the Sponsor A Senior program, contact Old Colony Elder Services at (508) 584-1561.
About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services; Home Care and more.
OCES offers these programs in the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.
The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.
In 2009, OCES was honored with the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 140 employees. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.
Old Colony Elder Services launches new “Sponsor A Senior” ProgramRead More
Old Colony Elder Services Calls for Sponsors & Restaurant Vendors for Fundraising Event on June 26th
Old Colony Elder Services, (OCES), serving elders, their families and caregivers in 23 towns in Southeastern Massachusetts, is holding their first annual “Cooking for a Cause” fundraising event to support the Nutrition Program on June 26th. Sponsors and restaurant vendors are needed. This event is open to the public.
The number of seniors throughout the area in need of meals is growing. OCES supports these seniors by providing healthy meals to them every day through the Nutrition Program’s congregate meal sites and Meals on Wheels. OCES has developed the “Cooking for a Cause” fundraiser to support and maintain the Nutrition program.
“Cooking for a Cause” is a family-friendly event that will offer something for everyone. Attendees will enjoy samples of cuisine from restaurants throughout Southeastern Mass., entertainment by the Baha Brothers, face painting for children as well as great raffles. The event will be held from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Middleboro Council on Aging located at 558 Plymouth Street in Middleboro.
OCES is looking to recruit area restaurants. Several have already signed up including: Burrito Wraps of Brockton, RooBar in Plymouth, Veronica’s Treats of Middleboro, Mike’s House of Pizza in Hanson, Lindley Food Service of Connecticut (the caterer for Meals on Wheels), BJ’s Wholesale of Stoughton, Hideaway Restaurant in Middleboro and the Middleboro Council on Aging.
Sponsors are also needed. Sponsorship levels vary from the “Bronze Baker” $500 commitment to the “Platinum Platter” $5,000 commitment. Event program advertisements are also available. Sponsors who RSVP immediately will be included on all marketing materials.
“Because of increasing costs and budget cuts, OCES cannot keep up with the demand of the growing senior population and increasing needs. The competition for grants is tough and we needed to find a way to raise the additional funds necessary to keep the Nutrition Program running. The number of seniors who rely on Meals on the Wheels and the congregate meal sites is growing exponentially and it’s imperative that we have an initiative in place so no senior goes hungry,” explained Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.
Interested vendors and potential sponsors should contact Lucille Dallaire at OCES (508) 584-1561.
About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services; Home Care and more.
OCES offers these programs in the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.
The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.
In 2009, OCES was honored with the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 140 employees. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.
Old Colony Elder Services Offers Ethical Issues Seminar for Health and Human Services Professionals on May 26th
Old Colony Elder Services, (OCES) one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth that serves 23 towns in Southeastern Massachusetts will hold a “Case Management: Ethical Issues Conference” on Wednesday, May 26, 2010 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at their Conference Center located at 144 Main Street in Brockton.
The seminar is open to the public and geared towards licensed social workers, licensed nurses, and other health and human service professionals. Social workers and registered nurses can earn CEUs.
The conference will be led by Professor Frederic G. Reamer, Ph.D, School of Social Work at Rhode Island College who will provide attendees with an overview of ethical and related risk-management issues encountered by human service professionals who serve elders.
Topics to be covered include:
Common ethical dilemmas in the delivery of social work services to elders
Ethical decision-making frameworks and protocols
Ethics-related malpractice and liability
Complimentary lunch will be served. Registration is required. The fee for this seminar
is $50 and the deadline to RSVP is May 14th.
Contact Phyllis Martin at OCES, 508-584-1561 x 293 to register or for more information.
About the Speaker
Dr. Reamer has conducted extensive research on professional ethics. He is the author of many books and articles including:
The Social Work Ethics Casebook: Cases and Commentary. Washington, DC: NASW Press, 2009.
Social Work Values and Ethics (3rd ed).New York: Columbia University Press, 2006. [First Edition, 1995; Second Edition, 1999]
Ethical Standards in Social Work: A Review of the NASW Code of Ethics (2nd ed.). Washington, DC: NASW Press, 2006. [First Edition, 1998]
About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services; Home Care and more.
OCES offers these programs in the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.
The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.
In 2009, OCES was honored with the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 140 employees. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.
Old Colony Elder Services Advises Elders and Families Where to Turn after storm flooding
Old Colony Elder Services, (OCES) one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth, serves 23 towns in Southeastern Massachusetts and urges both residents and business owners who are dealing with severe storm damage and loss to take action quickly and register immediately for state and federal disaster aid.
According to officials at the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), homeowners, renters and business owners who suffered disaster-related damage or loss should call the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) registration line at 800-621-FEMA (3362). Multilingual operators are available. Individuals with hearing and/or speech impairments can call 800-462-7585. Online registration is also available at www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
OCES and MEMA advise residents/business owners to register even if you are insured because insurance coverage may not be adequate and some foundation damage may not appear until later. Disaster assistance covers a wide range of losses. Structural damage or repair is covered, as is damage or loss of essential personal property, such as a major appliance or medical equipment (wheelchairs, etc).
OCES advises that once you have registered, there are several very important action steps you need to take. According to guidelines established by MEMA:
Keep critical appointments. A FEMA-contracted inspector will make an appointment to visit your home, usually within a week. Make every effort to be at home or authorize an agent to be present. Use the Helpline option at the FEMA registration toll-free numbers for contact updates, including your agent’s name, a new phone number, or to change appointment times.
Return all forms promptly. After registering, you may receive a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loan application package in the mail. Fill out and return these forms promptly since they are an essential part of the disaster-assistance process.
Stay in touch. Use the Helpline for answers to your questions about federal assistance; this is the same number you called to register for aid.
Have realistic expectations. You should not expect disaster assistance to restore you to pre-disaster conditions. It is intended to help you get safe, sanitary housing and meet other critical needs so you can begin your long-term recovery.
Read all FEMA letters and documents. Applicants deemed eligible for disaster assistance will receive a letter from FEMA providing guidance on their disaster relief grant. It will tell you about ways the money can be spent in your recovery. Be advised that federal assistance may have to be repaid if it is duplicated by insurance or other assistance received.
Talk to FEMA if you have questions, especially about insurance. If you receive a FEMA letter stating your application has been denied, it often means that one or more aspects of your application require further information or correction. An “INS-Insured” denial does not necessarily mean “case closed,” it means you must first settle with your insurer to prevent any duplication of payments.
Keep FEMA in mind after your insurance settlement. You may have been underinsured and some uncompensated losses may be eligible for some form of disaster aid. Call the Helpline if your insurance settlement is delayed, if it does not cover all of your loss, if you can’t find rental housing in your area, or if your additional living expense benefits are exhausted. Remember, failure to file a claim with your insurer within 12 months can affect your eligibility for FEMA assistance.
Rebuild with disaster prevention in mind. Before starting any repairs or reconstruction, check with local building officials on required permits and inspections. If you were displaced from your home and incurred hotel or motel expenses, save your receipts and check with FEMA on possible reimbursement.
“Many people were affected by the recent ”hundred year’ storm. We strongly urge anyone who suffers from property damage or loss (which even includes the loss of medications, medical equipment or supplies) to act quickly in order to obtain speedy assistance,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.
Contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) registration line at 800-621-FEMA (3362). For the hearing or speech impaired, call 800-462-7585. Or, register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov. Seniors, their families and caregivers who have addtional questions or need further assistance are encouraged to contact OCES at (508) 584-1561.
About FEMA
FEMA’s mission is “To support citizens and first responders and to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.” To contact FEMA, call their 24-hour line (508) 820-2000.
About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services; Home Care and more.
OCES offers these programs in the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.
The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.
Old Colony Elder Services Advises Elders and Families Where to Turn after storm floodingRead More
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