Bridgewater Woman Named Salvation Army Social Services Manager

When I think of the Salvation Army, my first thought is hearing the bells and seeing the kettles outside of the stores the weeks before Christmas. My second thought is seeing Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott jump into the giant kettle after scoring a Thanksgiving Day touchdown.

However, the truth of the matter is that the Salvation Army is so much more than those bells, kettles, and touchdowns that brought the idea during the holidays to everyday Americans. Now, to lead that charge into a new world of social services, the Salvation Army is announcing new leadership across the SouthCoast and Eastern Massachusetts.

Jennifer Alvarado of Bridgewater has joined The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division as Eastern Massachusetts Regional Social Services Manager. In her new role, she will work closely with corps case managers to strengthen social services programs throughout the SouthCoast and Eastern Massachusetts.

Alvarado brings 15 years of experience in human services across both nonprofit and municipal settings. Much of her work has focused on supporting individuals and families living in poverty, with particular attention to the needs of older adults.

Her background includes homeless outreach, elder crisis intervention, Medicare health insurance counseling, and nonprofit program management. Through these roles, Alvarado has developed strong connections within social services networks throughout the region.

Alvarado takes over her new position after serving as Director of Operations for Home Support Programs at a local nonprofit organization. In that role, she oversaw bilingual outreach case management, Adult Foster Care programs, Shared Living services, and Individual Hope Supports. She also developed a no cost in home medical program that helps medically compromised people get care without leaving their home.

Alvarado said she is excited to support the wide range of services offered by The Salvation Army.

"The Salvation Army offers far more social services assistance than many people realize," Alvarado said. "I look forward to supporting the incredible work being done by Salvation Army officers and staff while helping connect more community members with available resources."

She holds a master of science degree in gerontology from the University of Massachusetts Boston and a bachelor degree in sociology from Bridgewater State University.