Patrick-Murray Administration Celebrates Opening of 'HHS Center' in North Adams, Providing Streamlined Services to Thousands of Consumers in Area
Fifth HHS Center opens in Massachusetts; improving services for consumers while increasing efficiencies
NORTH ADAMS — The Patrick-Murray Administration today celebrated the grand opening of the fifth consolidated HHS Center in Massachusetts, which will offer consumers access to four state agencies in one convenient location in North Adams. Leaders of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services visited the HHS Center today to meet with employees, clients and local officials for a tour of the new facility.
“We are committed to increasing access and streamlining services for our diverse set of consumers,” said HHS Secretary JudyAnn Bigby. “The new HHS Center in North Adams will increase efficiencies, while also providing easier access to an array of vital services for consumers in and around North Adams.”
The new HHS Center will offer consumers improved access to services from four state agencies, including the Department of Transitional Assistance, the Department of Developmental Services, the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind. DTA alone serves approximately 2,000 area consumers, who will now be able to visit the new HHS Center in North Adams.
“This Center is a wonderful concept that preserves essential state services in the City of North Adams for so many of our residents here and in the greater region,” said Mayor Richard Alcombright. “There was a day not so long ago when we thought office-based services were going to leave the city due to funding issues. Fortunately for us, Governor Patrick, Secretary Bigby, Senator Downing, Representative Cariddi and others knew how important it was that personalized delivery of these vital services were very necessary. This HHS Center is definitely a great solution and the city is very thankful to all who have made this possible.”
The Center is the fifth in a series of office consolidations across the state that have resulted in significant efficiencies and improved services for residents. The consolidation will provide cost-effective, professional working environments for personnel, and more streamlined service for clients of multiple agencies.
Consumers are encouraged to visit the new HHS Center at 37 Main Street, 3rd Floor, or call the main number at 413-663-5391 for more information.
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