2 Western MA COVID testing sites welcomed, but some say more needed in region
July 30, 2020
The Baker-Polito Administration has expanded free COVID-19 testing to 8 more sites, including 2 in Western MA. Some say the region needs more testing access.
"Western Mass. is a large area, and as we know, many people in our region rely on public transportation, so we have to be really thoughtful about spreading out testing sites around our large geographic area," said Jessica Collins, executive director of the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts. "For someone from Pittsfield to have to go to Agawam or Springfield, that is not an easy thing to do."
Read the full article from the Berkshire Eagle.
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On February 9, 2026, the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts convened partners and legislators to celebrate the FY26 earmark for 413Cares.org and to share updates on major regional initiatives. PHIWM extends deep appreciation to Representative Michael Finn, Senator Adam Gomez, and the entire Western Massachusetts legislative delegation for their continued partnership and support for 413Cares.org , which remains a critical tool for connecting Western MA residents to help when they need it most. 413Cares.org saw major growth in 2025, with searches doubling and the number of users increasing more than fourfold. Check out photos from the gathering below!
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In 1996, courageous and visionary leaders from competing healthcare institutions created a public health organization to bring people together, secure resources, and convene multiple sectors to focus on community health issues that were not being addressed. That collective vision and action manifested in Partners for a Healthier Community, now the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts. Over the past 30 year s, we have strengthened partnerships and uplifted community voices. We are more committed than ever to ensure everyone has what they need to lead a healthy life. Thank you for your decades of partnership and lifetime of active hope.
