Mayor Sarno states, “I want to thank my Health and Human Services Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris for participating, on my behalf, in the state DPH’s virtual public hearing tonight to discuss the potential closure of four local nursing homes, including Chapin Center here in Springfield. I also want to acknowledge state Senator John Velis and state Representative Michael Finn for taking the lead and hosting a prior meeting with the nursing homes for myself, HHS Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris and other state and local officials to better understand how we got to this situation. Helen and I have kept in contact with Senator Velis and Representative Finn, and I have also spoken directly to Governor Maura Healey on this situation too. I again thank all involved for their continued efforts to explore all of the solutions that might be available to keep all four of these facilities open, including Chapin Center here in Springfield. As our state delegation from Western Massachusetts continues to work with DPH to review and explore the facilities options under the new changes to the state regulations, my administration stands ready and able to assist the families and employees, if needed. David Cruise, President and CEO for MassHire, has already answered my call for action and is ready to provide employment assistance for the employees, again if needed. In addition, we have also been reassured that per the state regulations on this matter, no senior or family will be left behind and without a bed if the worst-case scenario happens. But hopefully, we can avoid all of this and work together with our state officials, DPH and the nursing home facilities to avoid this and find a plausible solution to keep all four of these facilities open and operating for the benefit of all involved.”
DPH will be holding a virtual public hearing today, Thursday, March 2, 2023, at 6:00 pm to discuss Chapin Center in Springfield and Governor’s Center in Westfield. DPH held a virtual public hearing yesterday to discuss Willimansett East and West. Those interested in participating can do so by calling in at: 888-390-5007 and using the passcode: 3522632.