JUNE ARTICLE: Pride Month, LGBTQIA+ Senior Luncheon

The 1969 Stonewall Uprising served as a catalyst for the global movement for LGBTQIA+ rights.
In June, we celebrate Pride Month commemorating this important time in history.

Diversity enriches our community. Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living. OCES aspires to be a culturally diverse and inclusive organization that removes barriers creating equity for all by empowering individuals and communities to thrive, age in place, and reach their highest potential.

OCES supports EVERYONE without exception. There is “No Wrong Door” when it comes to supporting all. Through more than 20 different programs, OCES offers significant life-supporting care, contributing to an individual’s ability to live within the community as independently as possible for as long as possible while preserving dignity and quality of life. With a service area of 23 communities, OCES is the largest provider of these in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in southeastern Massachusetts.

One example of OCES’ in-home and community-based services is the Nutrition Program. This program enhances the quality of life for older adults by providing nutritionally sound and satisfying meals through Meals on Wheels (home-delivered meals) and through Community Dining meal sites located throughout OCES’ service area.

Community Dining meal sites enable older adults to gather, enjoy a nutritionally balanced meal, and socialize. Community Dining sites are open to all older adults and provide noontime meals Monday through Friday. These Community Dining sites offer safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Nutrition education presentations, activities or entertainment may also be offered during mealtimes at Community Dining sites. Special meals such as barbecues, A Traveling Chef, holiday meals, and Grab and Go Meals may be featured at select Community Dining sites. An LGBTQIA+ senior luncheon is offered monthly at Bridgewater Senior Centers and  features SINGO, an exciting game similar to bingo but with a musical spin.

Meal reservations are required at all Community Dining sites. For more information about OCES’ Nutrition Program and to locate a Community Dining site, visit https://ocesma.org

OCES is proud to participate in this year’s Plymouth Pride Festival that will feature music, entertainment, food trucks, a pet contest, craft and retail vendors, and resources. Visit OCES’ booth during the event on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 11 am to 5 pm at Nelson Memorial Park, 235 Water Street in Plymouth. For more information, visit https://www.plymouthprideinc.com/pride2025

OCES is dedicated to creating better futures for everyone we serve and communities at large. To learn more about programming at OCES, contact OCES’ Information and Referral Department at 508-584-1561.