Bay Path Master of Occupational Therapy Program Receives Recognition

LONGMEADOW — Enfield Holistic Occupational Therapy, a fieldwork site developed by the Bay Path University Master of Occupational Therapy program that has a longstanding partnership with the Enfield Housing Authority, was the recipient of the 2015 Regional Award of Excellence in Program Innovation – Resident Services and the 2015 National Award of Merit in Program Innovation – Resident and Client Services.

These awards are from the National Assoc. of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), and the New England Regional Council of NAHRO. The Enfield Holistic Occupational Therapy fieldwork site was nominated by the Enfield Housing Authority.

Enfield Holistic Occupational Therapy is one of two role-emergent, community-based fieldwork sites developed by Bay Path University. This innovative fieldwork model allows for the emergence of occupational therapy into community sites to provide programming to meet the therapeutic needs of its population.

“One of the best things about Enfield Holistic Occupational Therapy is that it is a win-win partnership,” said Scott Bertrand, executive director of the Enfield Housing Authority. “Bay Path students gain experience in their chosen field while providing programs and services at no cost to our residents at the Mark Twain Congregate Living. More important, it allows our older individuals to continue the joys of living independently. Undoubtedly, the work of the Bay Path students has had a tremendous impact on the lives of the residents, families, and caregivers within our community.”

The Enfield Housing Authority offers affordable housing opportunities to older residents who experience difficulty with one or more daily functions, such as meal preparation, dressing, or bathing, but is not classified as a healthcare facility.

The National Association of Housing and Redevelopment (www.nahro.org) comprises more than 3,000 housing authorities, and only 187 are recognized with awards on the national level.