Coastal Neighbors Network, one of the area’s newest charitable organizations, is partnering with The Association for the Relief of Aged Women (ARAW), one of the oldest charitable foundations in New Bedford, with the goal of helping the area's elder residents live more stable, healthy and happy lives.

Coastal Neighbors Network is the new kid on the block. It is a membership-based, volunteer-driven nonprofit that enables people to “Age in Place” independently and actively. Established in 2017 in Dartmouth, and expanded to Westport in 2020, Coastal Neighbors provides a range of one-to-one services, group events, information and support through vetted volunteers and preferred providers. The mission is to help older residents, both men and women, live comfortably and safely while staying connected to their community and friends.

ARAW, one of New Bedford’s oldest charitable foundations, was founded in 1866. Its mission then, and today, is to furnish financial assistance, provide friendship, and promote the welfare and relief of elderly women. It supports individual women, programs and services that improve the quality of life of elderly women in our community.

“We are honored and thrilled to have received this grant because it enables Coastal Neighbors to reach out to older neighbors in Dartmouth and Westport who are experiencing real poverty,” Andy Pollock, executive director of Coastal Neighbors, said. “Our volunteers will provide the new ARAW members with rides to medical appointments, help with small household chores, neighborly check-ins, and social events. This is really a win/win situation and we’re excited to welcome our new members.”

Clare Healy Foley, ARAW's executive director, is equally enthusiastic about the partnership

“The Association for the Relief of Aged Women is extremely pleased to partner with Coastal Neighbors Network to help our older neighbors in Dartmouth and Westport stay safe, independent and connected to the communities they know and love.”

“We have marveled watching Coastal Neighbors evolve and grow into a sought-after resource. Funds from ARAW’s Community Partner Grant will enable eligible women in our community, regardless of financial resources, to become members of Coastal Neighbors. Together, we look forward to seeing the impact that access to their many services will have on the well-being of our ARAW friends.”

Pollock said the partnership will help more women who are in a low-income bracket and are in need of friendship. For Coastal Neighbors, the alliance brings new members into the organization. And for ARAW, it brings services and socialization to elderly women who find themselves in challenging situations. The joining of the newer and the older brings help and hope to neighbors in Dartmouth and Westport.

Editor's note: For more information about Coastal Neighbors,  call Pollock at 508-556-4004. To learn more about The Association for the Relief of Aged Women, contact Foley at (508) 717-0400.