Program Profile: The Elder Independence Fund

What if you really needed an item or service but couldn’t afford it on your own? Not too hard to imagine in these tough times. But what if you needed that item or service so desperately that your independence depended on obtaining it? This is a reality for some local elders. In November’s Program Profile we’re featuring MVES’ Elder Independence Fund, a program that helps elders in immediate need.

MVES’ Elder Independence Fund is an emergency fund used to purchase critical items or services for local, low-income elders. The fund helps elders who have an urgent need for an item that they can’t afford on their own. Without that item or service—and help from the Elder Independence Fund—an elder’s independence could be in jeopardy.

The Elder Independence Fund is used to purchase food, fuel, shelter, prescriptions, and other items of necessity. It might be used to purchase a lift-equipped chair for an elder struggling with an injury after a bad fall. It might purchase a wheelchair ramp for an elder who can no longer get in and out of her own home. The fund might buy dentures for an elder who was becoming malnourished because he couldn’t eat solid foods.

The Elder Independence Fund is used only as a last resort when no other payment sources are available. Requested items and services vary in cost, usually from $99 to $1,500, but all are urgently needed. Every request to the Elder Independence Fund is carefully reviewed and funds are distributed with discretion.

MVES strives to raise $20,000 every year for the fund so that we can continue to provide elders with the help they need. The fund is maintained by donations from community members and area foundations. Proceeds from our upcoming fall appeal mailing will benefit the fund.

To help pay for elders’ critically needed items or services, please donate to the Elder Independence Fund (opens new window). For more information, please contact MVES’ Development office at 781-324-7705.