September marks the 30th year that the Massachusetts Money Management Program (MMMP) has been helping adults over 60, and adults living with disabilities, maintain their independence. The MMMP is a free, volunteer-supported program that is vital to those it serves. Without the program, many individuals would face food insecurity, financial exploitation, eviction, and premature institutionalization.
MMMP volunteers have always gone above and beyond for their consumers and for the 30th anniversary, their dedication and hard work were recognized by Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) at its volunteer appreciation event last month.
MMMP volunteers work one-on-one with at-risk individuals to help them create a budget, pay their bills, reduce debt, and find local support services. Since 1991, MMMP volunteers have served 13,000 Massachusetts residents. The past 18 months, MMMP volunteers were a lifeline to individuals who had no one else to turn to, or even talk to, during the pandemic. Throughout the pandemic, volunteers continued to support their consumers in a variety of ways including phone calls and virtual meetings.
Below are quotes from consumers and volunteers:
– “Helped in so many ways, I was losing confidence in myself. My volunteer has restored my confidence. If it wasn’t for the MMP I would have given up.”
– “My financial life has been saved because of this service.”
– “As an OCES’ Money Management Volunteer for 18 years, I have worked with Consumers that have faced not having enough money for food, on the verge of having electricity and gas shut off, and family members taking advantage of them. I have helped Consumers manage their finances so they don’t have to worry about the mortgage or losing their homes. Being a part of this MMP, I feel like I am making a difference in someone’s life. It’s very rewarding and there are many people out there in need of assistance.”
The MMMP would not exist without the hundreds of volunteers who devote so much time and effort to support people in their communities. On behalf of the statewide program and all local programs, we would like to say a big Thank You to current and past volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering for OCES’ Money Management or other programs, please call 508-584-1561 and ask for the Volunteer Coordinator.
Assistance & Volunteer Opportunities Available
OCES is accepting new consumers and volunteers into the Money Management program. Donations to OCES’ MMMP are vital and may be made by visiting OCES’ website and clicking on Donate Now. For more information, to volunteer, or to make a donation to OCES’ Money Management Program, visit www.ocesma.org
About the MMMP
The Massachusetts Money Management Program’s mission is to promote and prolong independent living for income-eligible individuals over 60 who are at risk because of their inability to manage their finances. In order to achieve this mission, the MMMP:
– Provides assistance that enables people to live as independently as possible;
– Helps in the least intrusive way so that a person’s dignity and privacy are preserved; and
– Includes program safeguards to protect the consumer, the volunteer, and the local ASAP.
To learn more about the statewide program, to refer someone, to volunteer, or donate, please visit massmmp.org. You can search for your local program by city or town. You can also email mmmpinfo@tves.org or call 508-949-6640 ext. 3376.
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.
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