Helix Marks 160 Years

SPRINGFIELD — Helix Human Services, formerly known as the Children’s Study Home, is today celebrating 160 years of dedication to individuals and families affected by trauma.

The agency invites the community to join in celebrating this historic milestone at an event starting at 11 a.m. at 44 Sherman St. in Springfield. There will be remarks and a presentation.

Founded on April 27, 1865, in the wake of the Civil War, Helix stands today as one of the state’s oldest human services organizations and as Springfield’s oldest nonprofit — anchored by its enduring mission to help people find strength in the face of adversity.

From its beginnings as the Springfield Home for Friendless Women and Children, Helix was established by a visionary group of women who saw the urgent need to support young women emerging from incarceration and children orphaned by war. What began as temporary shelter became a lasting commitment to care — one that grew with the help of community leaders and continues to evolve with the times.

Today, Helix Human Services provides a continuum of trauma-informed care for children, youth, adults, and families across Massachusetts. With core locations in Springfield, Holyoke, Richmond, and Hyannis, Helix is best known for supporting children and youth referred by state agencies, while also expanding its impact to include community-based adult and family programs.

“Since the Civil War, our mission has remained constant: to be here when people need us most,” said Mark Paglia, CEO of Helix. “We are honored to continue serving Massachusetts communities with compassion, purpose, and a commitment to doing better every day.”