Community Health Programs Marks 50 Years of Service in the Berkshires
Great Barrington, Mass. — In 2025, Community Health Programs (CHP) will commemorate its 50th anniversary, a significant milestone that underscores the organization’s unwavering commitment to providing healthcare to some of the most underserved populations in the Berkshires.
Reflecting on the journey, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Andrew Beckwith stated, “Our beginnings were modest and centered on our mission. We’re very proud that we’ve grown into this size, expanded our services, and made them accessible to all of the Berkshires while maintaining our focus on our mission.” This statement encapsulates the essence of CHP, which has evolved from its humble beginnings to become a pillar of community health in the region.
CHP was founded in 1975 by pediatrician Dr. Thomas Whitfield, who identified an alarming health crisis among rural children who lacked access to medical care. Alarmed by the number of children who had never seen a doctor, Dr. Whitfield initiated the Children’s Health Program. His innovative approach involved proactively seeking out families in need by observing indications of hardship, such as diapers hanging on clotheslines and children’s toys strewn across yards.
With the initial support of the organization’s first executive director, Linda Small, CHP expanded its offerings to include parent education, nutrition assistance, and early intervention services. This diversification was pivotal, and by becoming a federally qualified health center (FQHC) in 2000, the organization nearly tripled its capacity to serve the community. “By the time the FQHC idea was presented, we had children we’d cared for since birth entering adulthood. It was a natural next step to continue caring for them,” recalls Small.
Today, CHP services cover a range of medical needs, including primary care, dental treatment, behavioral health services, nutrition counseling, and family assistance programs. Annually, CHP serves over 35,000 patients, ensuring that care is available irrespective of income, insurance status, or demographic background.
“This milestone isn’t just about our history—it’s about the people and partnerships that shaped us,” noted CHP CEO Bethany Kieley. “It’s about building the next 50 years of inclusive, community-driven care. This is the perfect opportunity to remind our community that we’re here to care for all who need us.”
To celebrate this milestone, CHP has launched a year-long anniversary campaign that will highlight the stories of those they have served. The campaign includes various events designed to engage the community, such as:
– Live on the Lake: A free family concert on August 6 at Lake Onota in Pittsfield, featuring music, giveaways, and face painting.
– National Health Center Week (August 3–9): Special events and giveaways at all CHP facilities.
– Community Day of Service: In November, CHP staff will assist the Thanksgiving Angels in providing meals for families in need.
As CHP approaches its anniversary, the focus remains clear: to continue providing high-quality, accessible healthcare while fostering partnerships that uplift and support the community’s health and well-being.
