HCN News & Notes

CHD to Celebrate West Springfield Location of Adult Programs Center

WEST SPRINGFIELD — The Center for Human Development (CHD), a major provider of human services in Western Mass., will celebrate the grand opening of its new location in West Springfield, which will host its Adult Day Health program, as well as administrative offices for its Meadows Homes and Disability Resources programs. The grand-opening event is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 23 from 10:30 a.m. to noon at 85 Interstate Drive, West Springfield.

In addition to CHD’s senior leadership, those in attendance are anticipated to include representatives from Greater Springfield Senior Services; WestMass Elder Care; the West Springfield Council on Aging; the Massachusetts departments of Elder Affairs, Developmental Services, and Public Health; community and political leaders; and other key stakeholders.

“We are excited to move three distinct but complementary programs under one roof,” said Audrey Monroe, director of Elder Services for CHD/Hawthorn Elder Care. “Adult Day Health, Meadows Homes, and Disability Resources will all be in a bigger and brighter space that can effectively serve more people. With our new Interstate Drive location, CHD is able to more intentionally and efficiently integrate these programs, which provide support to a population of largely intellectually disabled adults. As a result, we will have a more immediate impact in the lives of those we serve.”

CHD Adult Day Health services are designed to meet the physical, functional, and social needs of adults who may have disabilities and are unable to live totally independently. These services can help by providing supervision, companionship, and social interaction; recreational activities including supervised outings; nutritious meals and snacks; medical and mental-health services; and education and support of family and caregivers.

CHD Meadows Homes provides residential support to adults with intellectual disabilities. Meadows Homes operates 23 separate homes in 10 communities in Greater Springfield. Most individuals served are provided with 24-hour support, although a few live independently with minor support. Recreational activities are accomplished with the help of dedicated staff and a registered nurse/healthcare coordinator. Additionally, CHD assists with transportation for community activities and employment opportunities.

CHD Disability Resources provides barrier-free recreational and competitive opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities or visual impairments. Through a variety of activities, from adaptive sports and recreational outings to social gatherings and educational events, Disability Resources seeks to enhance the self-confidence, interactive skills, and physical abilities of program participants.