Bridges Healthcare, Inc. hosted a reception on June 28 to officially open its new clinical offices at 98 Elm St. West Haven. The site is the base for the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic, (CCBHC) a federally funded model which offers enhanced access to behavioral health and other integrated services in Milford, West Haven, Orange and Stratford. Bridges achieved CCBHC status in 2020.
Bridges’ President and CEO Jennifer Fiorillo stated, “Opening an office and increasing the availability of services to West Haven residents has been a strategic planning goal, as we saw a growing need for behavioral health support, particularly when the CT Mental Health Center relocated their adult services clinic. Transportation can be a challenge for many and removing any obstacles to treatment and recovery is vital. Bridges is proud to offer this connection to health to children, families, adults and young adults in West Haven.”
State Representative Dorinda Borer, D-115 attended the reception and commented “I am so pleased that Bridges has expanded access to critical mental health and addiction recovery services for West Haven residents, right in our own community. Bridges is a proven partner in saving lives and helping our friends and neighbors recover from trauma and other mental health issues. This new site is a welcome addition to the City of West Haven.”
As part of the celebration, Bridges honored former Board Members and West Haven residents Margaret Jerrell and Ann Yost for their years of dedicated board service and support for Bridges’ and its clients. In addition, post humous honors were bestowed on former Board Member Stella Cretella.
A long-time advocate for mental health services and a passionate voice for eliminating stigma, Stella was active on the Region 2 Mental Health Board as well as many civic and political committees. Stella Cretella served on Bridges’ Board of Directors from 1994 to 2001 serving as Secretary from 2001-2004 and Vice Chair from 2004-2006. Stella was Chair of the Legislative Committee and participated on the Endowment Committee. She was a committed and generous supporter of Bridges’ mission. Joan Cretella continues her mother’s legacy as a member of Bridges’ Board of Directors since 2007.
Ann Yost served as a member of Bridges’ Board of Directors since 1998, served as the Vice Chair of Programs from 2013 – 2017 and on the Development and Scholarship Committees. Ann, a licensed clinical social worker along with her husband Art, also a former Board member, have been invaluable partners to Bridges offering professional experience, guidance and compassion to the Bridges community.
Margaret “Peg” Jerrell began her Board service with Bridges in 1997, serving as Assistant Treasurer and on committees including Development, Governance and Scholarship, Peg offered insight, professional expertise and support for Bridges’ mission throughout her tenure. Peg has also been a strong advocate for Bridges to expand its presence and services in the City of West Haven.
The office features art work on loan from several local artists with the theme: WEST HAVEN CONNECTIONS: LANDSCAPE AS A POINT OF DEPARTURE. The exhibit was curated by Elinor Slomba of Verge Arts Group, a small business based in West Haven. View the list of artists in PDF below.
