Berkshire Health Systems Partners with CDCSB to Improve Housing Availability

GREAT BARRINGTON — Berkshire Health Systems (BHS) and the Community Development Corp. of Southern Berkshire (CDCSB) are partnering to support the expansion of workforce housing in South County. BHS will provide the CDCSB with financial support to make some units of the Thornewood available for temporary housing of healthcare workers who face barriers in finding available housing options.

“As part of our mission to advance health and wellness for everyone in our community, we recognize that creating better access to housing resources for a diverse population of workers will make a real impact,” said Darlene Rodowicz, president and CEO of BHS. “We were pleased to work with the CDCSB to develop this innovative new collaboration focused on addressing one of the core challenges in our community — accessible, affordable workforce housing through the redevelopment of the Thornewood Inn.”

The Thornewood, at 453 Stockbridge Road in Great Barrington, has 16 furnished units that are suitable for one or two adults and vary in size, layout, and features. According to the CDCSB, applicants working in Great Barrington will receive priority access to the rooms. Those working elsewhere in Berkshire County are also eligible. Eligibility for the affordable units is subject to maximum income levels.

“BHS’s early support of the Thornewood project is greatly appreciated,” said Jim Harwood, CDCSB board president. “Our partnership not only addresses a critical community need for short- and long-term housing for healthcare workers, but the additional financial support also allows us to provide this housing at affordable levels and fund ongoing upgrades for the property, such as our current project to build an improved shared kitchen for Thornewood residents.”