Having a holistic approach, our Old People’s Program includes not only relief work for the elderly, but also services that address all kinds of their needs such as medication, hospitalization, placement in institutions, counseling, spiritual uplift, recreation, and burial.

Cash Assistance

Needy elderly citizens, mainly living alone, benefit from this service. On a bimonthly basis, they receive cash allowances from JMP–L. The allowances depend on possible other income, rent obligation, and number of dependents (couples or siblings living together, etc.).

Moreover, most of the medical expenses of these people are covered by JMP–L.

Burial Arrangements

JMP–L arranges and covers the expenses of the burial of some elderly people who pass away in old people’s homes, hospitals or in their own homes, and who have no relatives to care for this final need. A local priest or pastor of the community is contacted for the burial service, and a coffin and related expenses are provided.

Other Activities

In cooperation with other social welfare agencies (through the coordination of the Coordinating Committee of Armenian Social Welfare Organizations), JMP–L plays a major role in organizing an annual Christmas and New Year party for the elderly who live by the support of these agencies. This event has been held since 1980.

JMP–L contributes to this activity financially, and our social workers participate in the planning of the event. The elderly are entertained with music, dance and gifts. Check out our news section to read reports on past New Year celebrations.

Starting in early 2009, our Old People’s Program has designed an interesting project with the aim of introducing a developmental approach. A series of activities has been planned to embrace recreation, spiritual uplift, and informal adult education in this program. The monthly gatherings include a hot meal, a presentation or lecture, and recreational activities. Priests/pastors and specialists are invited as guest speakers. Volunteers from our different departments, as well as from among beneficiaries of other services (such as Medication Dispensing Department), are involved to serve the elderly or lead recreational activities.

We are hoping that this initiative can be an introductory step toward the formation of a club for the elderly in the near future.

JMP–L also offers institutional placement and care for needy people, including the elderly.