Presenting the award to Bonnie are (left) Gail Fortes, Executive Director of the YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts, and (right) Board President Lindsay Carter-Monteiro.

Bonnie Mello Receives Women of Distinction Award

LifeStream President & CEO Bonnie Mello was one of eight women honored with a Women of Distinction Award by the YWCA of Southeastern Massachusetts at an event held at Rachel’s Lakeside on October 24th. 

The awards recognize the leadership and contributions of women in Southeastern Massachusetts whose lives and accomplishments reflect the YWCA’s mission of eliminating racism and empowering women. Honorees are recognized for their commitment to improving the lives of women and girls through their leadership, advocacy, and community service while also achieving success in their career fields.

Bonnie has dedicated her career to empowering marginalized communities, with a special focus on women, girls, and individuals with disabilities. Under her leadership, LifeStream has grown to become a $40 million non-profit human services provider employing over 600 people, of which 80% are women, and a large percentage identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.

Her community involvement includes serving as an active board member of The Deaconess Home and the New Bedford Workforce Board, in addition to volunteering for several other local organizations. Within LifeStream Bonnie has cultivated a culture of giving back, and encouraging employees to volunteer in their communities.

Congratulations Bonnie!

R E S I D E N T I A L   S E R V I C E S

A New Residence Opens In Acushnet 

A new community-based residence in Acushnet is now home to two gentlemen who are enjoying their spacious backyard and private basketball court. LifeStream assumed oversight of this home in early October, enhancing its commitment to providing supportive, community-centered care. Both residents are actively involved in making this house their home,” said Steve Couto, Residential Director. “With strong family support coupled with the support of Direct Support professionals, the gentlemen are able to live a fulling life.”

Like LifeStream’s other residences, the  individuals here play a major role in their daily routines, from meal planning to pursuing personal interests and engaging with their community. 

LifeStream now operates thirty-three residences across the Greater New Bedford and Fall River areas, continuing its mission of inclusive, community-oriented care. 

Electronic Medication Administration Record System Coming Soon

LifeStream will soon introduce a new Electronic Medication Administration Record System (eMAR) to enhance the accuracy, efficiency and safety of medication management for individuals in our Residential Services. As one of the first organizations in Massachusetts to adopt this cutting-edge technology, LifeStream reaffirms its commitment to quality support and proactive safety measures. The transition to this paperless system will roll out in phases, beginning with up to ten residential homes by the end of the year.

LifeStream has partnered with Impruvon Health, a leader in health technology solutions designed to streamline healthcare workflows and protect lives.

Medication management is essential to the supports we provide,” said Jessica Rajani, LifeStream’s Director of Nursing. “With thirty-four MAP-registered locations, LifeStream administers approximately 800,000 doses of medication annually. This new digital system will replace our current manual paper process, allowing us to elevate safety and quality while simplifying administration for our MAP-certified staff.”

The Impruvon partnership will play a crucial role in minimizing medication errors and improving the overall safety and support quality in our homes. LifeStream will provide comprehensive training to all MAP-certified staff to ensure a seamless implementation.

Staff members involved in medication management will have mobile access to the system, enabling them to benefit from:

• Real-time, interactive dashboards for medication administration record reporting
• Proactive reminders and alerts to minimize human errors
• Real-time pharmacy connectivity
• Language preference options (with Portuguese and Spanish to be added in future phases)
• Individualized medication boxes for accurate, timely access to medications, enhancing resident safety and easing administration
• 24/7 access to a dedicated Impruvon Customer Success Manager

“This user-friendly system will significantly reduce the stress on those managing medication, while setting new standards in quality care and safety for the individuals we support.”

To learn more about LifeStream programs and services, visit www.lifestreaminc.com