BRIEF HISTORY OF ECHHO

          ECHHO began in 1997 when it became clear to local church and community members that there were unmet needs among the elderly and disabled in Jefferson Co.  Volunteers were recruited to meet needs in the areas of transportation to medical appointments, running errands, doing shopping, housework and yard work for those who were unable to do these tasks for themselves.  In 1998 ECHHO began a growing relationship with Catholic Community Services Volunteer Chore Services (VCS) in Kitsap County.  ECHHO and VCS exchange valuable information and services such as an insurance umbrella, which protects ECHHO volunteers while they serve the care receivers.

          In 1999 the medical equipment-lending program was begun at the request of a social worker from Jefferson Healthcare Home Health and Hospice.  Later, the Boeing Bluebills group began partnering with ECHHO to do the more complex repairs on medical equipment, especially on wheelchairs and electric hospital beds.  In 2003 ECHHO was able to begin paying a part-time equipment manager.

           Grants from Olympic Area Agency on Aging and a private foundation allowed ECHHO to begin reimbursing their volunteer drivers for their mileage and for ferry costs as needed.  The reimbursement per mile has gone up as gas prices have risen.

          ECHHO’s work continues to flourish because of regular financial support from UGN, Jefferson Healthcare, and local churches and civic organizations.  At the end of 2005 the ECHHO Founder/Director resigned his position because of health reasons.  Under his excellent long-term leadership, and the continuing service of a group of volunteer managers, ECHHO is in a strong position to continue on its own momentum.