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Category: News

SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) logo displayed alongside a SHINE counselor helping an older adult review Medicare information. The graphic highlights free, unbiased, local Medicare counseling and enrollment assistance available through the SHINE Program.

Navigating Medicare Choices: Barnstable County’s SHINE Program Offers Trusted Guidance

Every year, thousands of Cape Cod residents face important decisions about their Medicare coverage. With dozens of plan options, changing benefits, and an increasing amount of marketing aimed at Medicare […]

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A scenic Cape Cod shoreline with a sandy walking path bordered by beach grass and wooden fencing. Two people stroll along the path overlooking a calm harbor, with coastal homes, beachgoers, and blue water under a sunny sky

Read the Latest Human Services E-Newsletter

The Barnstable County Department of Human Services publishes a monthly e-newsletter featuring resources, trainings, funding opportunities, community events, and important updates from across Cape Cod. Whether you’re a resident, caregiver, […]

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Pride Month: Understanding the History Behind the Celebration

Each June, communities across the United States observe Pride Month, recognizing the history, contributions, and ongoing pursuit of equality for LGBTQ+ individuals. While Pride is often associated with celebrations, parades, […]

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Barnstable County Human Services E-Newsletter Highlights Resources, Events & Community Support Across Cape Cod

The latest edition of the Barnstable County Department of Human Services e-newsletter is now available, featuring a wide range of resources, funding opportunities, community events, and updates impacting residents and […]

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Celebrating Older Americans Month: Champion Your Health

Celebrated every May, Older Americans Month (OAM) is led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL). Established in 1963, OAM is a time to recognize older Americans’ contributions, highlight aging […]

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May is Mental Health Month!

As a reminder from the Barnstable County Department of Human Services, mental health matters and support is available. During Mental Health Month, we encourage residents to reflect on what a […]

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Mario Rubano of Older Adult Technology Services (OATS) delivers the keynote at Cape Cod’s first Age Tech Exploratory, focusing on barriers to technology adoption among older adults.

Cape Cod Age Tech Training Highlights Growing Focus on Digital Access for Older Adults

More than 100 professionals gathered at Cape Cod Community College on March 12 for the region’s first Age Tech Exploratory, a training focused on how technology can support older adults […]

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HUD Awards over $1.37M to Cape and Islands Homelessness Programs

The award is part of HUD’s annual Continuum of Care Competition Awards April 30, 2026 (Barnstable, MA) – The Cape and Islands CoC has been awarded $1.37 million in continuing funding […]

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SHINE Program 2025 Impact Report graphic featuring a blue ocean background, SHINE logo at top, and text reading “2025 Impact Report – Cape Cod & the Islands.”

Cape Cod and Islands SHINE Program Reports Strong Growth and Community Impact in 2025 

The Cape Cod and Islands Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone (SHINE) Program is reporting strong growth and measurable community impact in 2025, reflecting increasing demand for Medicare counseling and the […]

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Shine Open Enrollment Image

Free SHINE Webinar Training for Healthcare and Older Adult Services & Healthcare Professionals

Barnstable County’s SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) Program will host a free professional webinar designed to help service providers better support older adults and individuals with disabilities […]

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February Human Services Newsletter Now Available

February Spotlight: National Eating Disorder Awareness Month February highlights the importance of recognizing eating disorders as serious but treatable conditions. This month’s newsletter shares information to help individuals and families […]

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Tufts Health Plan Logo

Tufts Medicare Preferred Changes

Tufts Medicare Preferred will no longer cover services provided by multiple primary care physician offices across Barnstable County, effective March 1, 2026, impacting between 1200-1300 patients. What primary care practices […]

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