Staff at Community Healthlink in Central Massachusetts are decrying the planned closure of the health agency, warning it could cost hundreds of people their jobs and compromise much-needed care for vulnerable residents. The agency, an affiliate of UMass Memorial Health, oversees programs that help people with substance abuse, homelessness and mental health challenges.
Reasons for Closure
In a memo to employees, Community Healthlink’s president Gordon Benson told staff the provider is preparing to shut down and transfer its programs to two other social service organizations. The closure follows Community Healthlink’s financial challenges, having recorded $49 million in losses over the previous three fiscal years according to UMass Memorial Health president and CEO Eric Dickson.
Transition Plan
Benson called the closure a difficult but necessary decision to ensure clients continue receiving needed services. Two nonprofits — Open Sky Community Services and Clinical and Support Options — will take over the bulk of Community Healthlink’s programs, pending state approval. Both organizations will be initiating a hiring process, and current caregivers will be eligible to apply for those positions. Staff will also be connected with job opportunities at UMass Memorial.
Worker Concerns
For Thomasina Levesque, who has worked at Community Healthlink for 16 years and is a steward for SEIU Local 509, the measures are not enough. She said the agency has provided no assurances that employees will be able to keep their existing jobs. If workers do not follow or stay in those positions, approximately 400 or 500 workers could be out of a job. At a Worcester City Council meeting on April 14, staff warned of the closure and asked the city to intervene. A Worcester City Council meeting will be held to address workers’ concerns. Employees are planning a rally in front of Worcester City Hall on April 28.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.wgbh.org/news/local/2026-04-23/closure-of-umass-memorials-behavioral-health-affiliate-prompts-backlash-from-workers