Rockland Trust Grants $1,500 to The Arc of Bristol County

Rockland Trust today announced a $1,500 grant to The Arc of Bristol County, a non-profit organization that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, to support the expansion of the organization’s financial advocacy programs.  The Arc’s services extend throughout Bristol County, with offices in Attleboro, Taunton, Middleboro, Fall River, and New Bedford.  Through its state and national affiliations, The Arc conducts legislative, systems, and individual advocacy on behalf of those with disabilities. 

“At Rockland Trust, we recognize the importance of advocating for and supporting those with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our communities,” said Laura Gignac, Rockland Trust Attleboro Branch Manager.  “The Arc does great work throughout Bristol County and we are excited to support them as they expand their financial advocacy programs in the region.”

Rockland Trust’s grant will help the The Arc of Bristol County expand its financial advocacy programs, including its robust representative payee effort.  The financial advocacy programs at The Arc’s work to ensure that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities maintain their basic finacial needs.  In addition to advocacy, the organization also provides independent living and in-home support, trust management, family support, recreation, and residential support services, in addition to respite programs and advocacy for children with disabilities.

“We are grateful to Rockland Trust for this grant to help expand our financial advocacy throughout Bristol County,” said Michael Andrade, President and CEO of The Arc of Bristol County.  “The Representative Payee system helps individuals served feel empowered by knowing their finances are being responsibly managed, and provides peace of mind for families and caregivers of the individuals involved.”