Governor Healey and Mayor Rourke Officially Declare Health Center Week in Massachusetts and the City of Lowell
Lowell, MA – This week, Lowell Community Health Center held a community celebration to honor the health center’s 55th birthday. Attended by more than 200 supporters, elected officials, and community partners, the fundraising event was also part of this week’s national celebration of community health centers.
Collectively, community health centers are the United States’ largest network of primary care providers. In Massachusetts, about one in seven residents choose community health centers as their health care home. At Lowell Community Health Center, nearly one-third of all children in Lowell receive their care through the health center, which serves more than 41,000 individuals.
The community celebration included a number of speakers, many of whom had personal connections to the health center.
Lowell Community Health Center CEO, Susan West Levine, noted, “We are the front door to integrated care – where you can see a doctor, nurse practitioner, a case manager, a mental health counselor and get your prescriptions or your glasses and if you need, your dental cleaning…all under ONE roof. We are the community health center for everyone in this community. Our doors are for everyone.”
Lowell Community Health Center Board Member, Bopha Som Boutselis spoke about The Power to Care and visiting the health center as a patient, “I still remember… walking into [the health center] and seeing yourself reflected in the faces of other patients and the staff. I saw a true reflection of our community. I was not afraid to ask questions because I knew someone would understand me and be able to answer me. That made me feel hopeful and relaxed. This is what Lowell CHC stands for in this community. That is The Power to Care.”
Governor Maura Healey sent the health center a proclamation—co-signed by Lt. Governor Kimberley Driscoll and Secretary of the Commonwealth William Galvin—declaring this week Massachusetts Community Health Center Week. In her proclamation, the Governor noted,
“Massachusetts Community Health Centers have created over 17,800 jobs, including physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, licensed family therapists and certified nurse-midwives, who work as part of multi-disciplinary clinical teams designed to treat the whole patient, and generated over $2,800,000,000 in total economic activity in 2021.”
Mayor Daniel Rourke, who attended the event in person along with City Council Vice Chair Paul Ratha Yem and Councilor Wayne Jenness, proclaimed August 4 through August 10, 2025, as National Health Center Week in the City of Lowell. In the official proclamation, he “encourage(s) all residents to celebrate the 55th anniversary of Lowell Community Health Center and to recognize its vital role in building a healthier… community for all.”
Representatives from U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren’s office, as well as from Congresswoman Lori Trahan’s office, were also in attendance. Each presented citations and notes on behalf of the members. U.S. Senator Edward Markey sent a citation to commemorate the week’s celebration. These citations included:
U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren: “Since its founding, the Lowell Health Center has displayed meaningful commitment to providing exceptional healthcare and experiences to patients through competent and reliable service. Thank you for everything you do for your patients.”
U.S. Senator Edward Markey: Presented a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition,
“In honor of 55 years of providing compassionate, high-quality healthcare for Greater Lowell, dedicated advocacy on behalf of their patients, and outstanding and invaluable service to the community.”
U.S. Congresswoman Lori Trahan: Presented a Congressional Proclamation in Recognition of Lowell Community Health Center, which read in part, “The care provided by community health centers like Lowell CHC has never been more essential, offering not only medical treatment, but also connection, continuity, and compassion at a time when accessible health care is critical to both individual and community well-being.”
Massachusetts State Representative Vanna Howard, who also attended the event in person, presented the health center with a citation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives, co-signed by Representatives Rodney Elliott and Tara Hong, as well as Speaker Ronald Mariano.
Representatives from the office of Massachusetts State Senator Ed Kennedy presented the health center with a Commonwealth of Massachusetts State Senate Official Citation, also signed by Senate President Karen Spilka, “In recognition of 55 years of providing medical care and services to over 41,000 patients in the Greater Lowell Area.”
CEO Susan West Levine emphasized the importance of elected support, “We couldn’t do the work we do without the support of our legislative delegations, and we are all so lucky to have them in Lowell, in Boston and in Washington fighting for and protecting healthcare access for all.”
About Lowell Community Health Center
Lowell Community Health Center, established in 1970, is the healthcare home of choice for more than 41,000 individuals in Greater Lowell. For 55 years, our mission has remained constant: to provide comprehensive, high-quality care to all—regardless of income or insurance status. Today, as we celebrate The Power to Care, we continue to bring together care and compassion under one roof. Our integrated model connects patients to medical, dental, behavioral health, vision, and pharmacy services—all designed to meet the evolving needs of our community.
Give the Gift of Warmth
Please join us in keeping our patients warm this winter with the gift of a new winter coat! As a Refugee Health Assessment Center, many of our patients arrive from places more used to sun than snow. They have to adjust to so much, all while processing the trauma of fleeing the only home they knew. For many, one of the first stops in their journey toward healing is our Health Center. When they leave our building, let’s continue that welcome embrace with the warmth and care of a brand new winter coat they can wear for years to come. With the recent influx of refugees from places like Haiti and Afghanistan, need has never been greater.
Thanks to the Greater Lowell Community Foundation for the funding jumpstart!
While the community offers options for children’s coats, adult options are limited. There are 3 ways you can change that:
Lowell Community Health Center | Tufts Medicine | Family Medicine Residency Program Announces First Class of Residents on National Match Day
The Lowell Community Health Center | Tufts Medicine | Family Medicine Residency Program today announced the six physicians who will make up the program’s inaugural resident class, marking an important milestone for the residency program and the Greater Lowell community.
The announcement took place during National Match Day, when graduating medical students across the country learn where they will complete their residency training. The six new Residents will begin their training on June 29.
The Lowell Community Health Center | Tufts Medicine | Family Medicine Residency Program offers rigorous, community-based training focused on clinical excellence and primary care.
Based at Lowell Community Health Center and developed in partnership with Tufts Medicine and Tufts University School of Medicine, the program prepares future physicians to deliver care that is compassionate, evidence-based, and grounded in the realities of patient care.
Vice President for Education, Tufts Medicine
Associate Chief Medical Officer for Graduate Medical Education, Tufts MC Academic Dean for Tufts Medicine and Associate Professor of Medicine Tufts University School of Medicine
Residents train alongside Lowell Community Health Center physician faculty who also serve as faculty of Tufts University School of Medicine, combining academic strength with meaningful connection to patients and the community. In addition to their outpatient continuity clinic at Lowell CHC, residents complete inpatient training at Tufts Medicine Lowell General Hospital, ensuring a well-rounded experience across care settings.
“Match Day is always an exciting moment in medicine,” said Cara Marshall, MD, Program Director, Family Medicine Residency at Lowell Community Health Center and Clinical Associate Professor of Family Medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine. “For our program, it marks the beginning of something truly meaningful. Our residents will train in a setting where they can build lasting relationships with patients and families, caring for people at every stage of life while learning what it means to practice medicine in partnership with a community.”
Leaders involved in the program noted that the residency represents a critical investment in the future of primary care in the region. With the United States projected to face a shortage of more than 68,000 primary care physicians by 2036, programs like this are essential to strengthening the workforce pipeline. Once fully established with 18 residents in training, the program will create capacity for approximately 5,000 primary care patients at Lowell Community Health Center and will graduate six new Family Medicine physicians each year.
Residents care for a medically and socially complex patient population in a high-volume setting, developing the clinical skills and adaptability required to serve people with a wide range of health needs and life experiences. The program offers a collaborative learning environment where behavioral health, substance use treatment, infectious disease care, and trauma-informed care are integrated under one roof.
Inaugural Resident Class
The first class of residents in the Lowell Community Health Center | Tufts Medicine | Family Medicine Residency Program includes a group of six individuals who bring a wide range of clinical, academic, and life experiences.
Together, this inaugural class reflects a strong commitment to community-based care. The group includes individuals who have trained and worked across the United States and internationally, including in Ghana, India, Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York City. Their backgrounds span leadership roles in hospital settings, public health training at UMass Lowell, volunteer work in pediatric oncology and rural health education, and hands-on clinical experience as physician assistants. They have also contributed to research in addiction care, mentored young people through programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters and Teach for America, and supported community initiatives both locally and abroad. This breadth of experience will help shape a strong, community-focused residency program from its very first year.
The residents will begin their training on June 29 and will care for patients at Lowell Community Health Center while completing inpatient training at Tufts Medicine Lowell General Hospital.
Lowell Community Health Center Appoints Tom Murphy as Chief Financial Officer
Lowell Community Health Center today announced the appointment of Tom Murphy as Chief Financial Officer, following his service as Interim CFO since July 2025.
Murphy brings extensive financial and operational experience to the role, supporting the organization’s ongoing work and priorities. During his time as Interim CFO, he worked closely with the finance and executive teams, providing steady leadership and oversight across the health center’s financial systems.
Prior to serving as Interim CFO, Murphy was Senior Director of Finance at Lowell Community Health Center. His collaborative leadership style and ability to manage complex financial work while keeping teams informed and supported have played an important role in supporting the organization’s ongoing operations.
“Tom stepped into the Interim CFO role with a clear understanding of our financial operations,” said Susan West Levine, Chief Executive Officer of Lowell Community Health Center. “His experience, judgement, and consistency have been evident in his work with our finance and leadership teams. Over the past several months, Tom has earned the trust of our teams through his thoughtful approach and his commitment to keeping our work grounded and moving forward. I am confident in his continued leadership as our Chief Financial Officer.”
Before joining Lowell Community Health Center, Murphy held senior finance roles at Public Partnerships, LLC, where he oversaw large and complex financial operations and process improvement initiatives, including treasury functions, audits, and financial reporting across multiple programs and systems. Earlier in his career, he worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers and Takeda Pharmaceuticals, developing a strong foundation in accounting, compliance, and financial controls.
Murphy’s appointment reflects Lowell Community Health Center’s focus on experienced financial leadership to support its mission and long-term sustainability.
Our Impact 2024/2025
Grab & Go Food Help: Quick List
Where to find food help if you’re impacted right now
Need medical care?
Lowell Community Health Center is open during the shutdown and accepting new patients. Call 978-937-9700.
Visit our Patient Resources page for additional community resources.
Greater Lowell Pantry & Meal Program Schedule
Resources for People Affected by the Federal Government Shutdown
Following recent court rulings in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the federal government announced that SNAP will continue with partial funding during the shutdown. The exact benefit amounts and timing are not yet known, and some payments may be delayed.
SNAP helps people buy groceries each month using an EBT card. If funding stops, many families could lose this support.
If SNAP benefits are delayed or stopped, local food assistance is available:
Click Here to view Lowell CHC’s Community Resource Page
Some local restaurants and community groups are also offering free meals to those impacted.
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) services are a separate program and are not currently affected in Massachusetts.
In New Hampshire, WIC funding is expected to continue through November 7, but may become uncertain after that date. Learn more here: New Hampshire WIC Program Update.
More information about SNAP is available at gettingsnap.org.
Lowell Community Health Center is open during the government shutdown, and is accepting new patients. If you need care and wish to become a patient, please call 978-937-9700.
The Women’s Edge and The Boston Globe Magazine Again Name Lowell Community Health Center Among the Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts
Seventh Consecutive Year of Recognition Comes as Lowell CHC Celebrates 55 Years of The Power to Care
The Women’s Edge, in partnership The Boston Globe Magazine, has once again named Lowell Community Health Center (Lowell CHC) one of the Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts for 2025. Now in its 25th year, this annual list honors the women leaders driving Massachusetts’ economy and strengthening communities across the Commonwealth.
This marks the seventh consecutive year that Lowell CHC has earned a place on the list under the leadership of Susan West Levine, CEO. As the organization celebrates its 55th anniversary, Lowell CHC continues to play a vital role in Greater Lowell’s health and well-being, serving more than 41,000 patients each year with care they can trust.
“We’re deeply honored to be recognized by The Women’s Edge and The Boston Globe Magazine,” said Susan West Levine, CEO of Lowell Community Health Center. “This recognition reflects the essential role community health centers play in the strength of Massachusetts. For 55 years, Lowell CHC has been a trusted partner in care, improving health outcomes, helping people stay healthy and productive, and contributing to the well-being of the entire Greater Lowell community. I’m incredibly proud of our team and the difference they make every day for this community.”
Lowell Community Health Center also congratulates UMass Lowell Chancellor Julie Chen and Vinfen President and CEO Jean Yang, who were both also named to this year’s list. Together, both organizations exemplify the city’s continued leadership in innovation, health, education, and community impact.
Now celebrating its 25th year, the Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts list recognizes organizations that make significant contributions to the state’s economy and civic life. This year’s honorees represent a wide range of industries, collectively generating billions in revenue and providing leadership that advances opportunity across Massachusetts.
About Lowell Community Health Center
Lowell Community Health Center, established in 1970, is the healthcare home of choice for more than 41,000 individuals in Greater Lowell. Guided by The Power to Care, we provide comprehensive, high-quality care that ensures every patient is welcomed, understood, and supported. We offer a full range of services to help people stay healthy and connected to care—regardless of ability to pay.
About The Women’s Edge
The Women’s Edge, a Boston-based nonprofit, supports women in leadership by offering relevant programs and fostering a diverse community of high-performing leaders. Visit thewomensedge.org for more information.
Statement from Susan West Levine on the Passing of State Senator Ed Kennedy
We are deeply saddened by the passing of State Senator Ed Kennedy, an advocate and a true friend to Lowell Community Health Center and the Greater Lowell community. Senator Kennedy was someone who always made time to listen, who championed our patients and staff through legislation and funding, and who never lost sight of the people behind the policies. His unwavering support and genuine care leave a lasting impact on our health center and the patients we serve.
I will personally miss him. Our health center will miss him. This community will miss him. On behalf of all of us at Lowell CHC, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Senator Kennedy’s family and loved ones. His legacy will live on in the work and mission of our health center.
Susan West Levine, CEO
Lowell Community Health Center
Building Routines and Confidence for a Great School Year
It’s hard to believe the new school year is already underway. It seems like just a short time ago parents were excited about summer weather and wondering how they were going to fill their kids’ time.
Now that school has started, we wanted to share some important tips* for elementary aged children to help you and your kids kick the year off right.
*source: CDC – Tips for a positive start to the school year!
Daily Routines Help Kids Feel Safe and Confident
Put away electronics one hour before bedtime to relax together and get ready for a good night’s sleep. Plan regular times for healthy meals, play, and homework every day. Kids need 9–12 hours of sleep each night to help them learn. Get clothes and backpacks ready for school the night before. Set aside regular one-on-one time, without screens, to do something relaxing and fun with your child.
Building Connections Boosts Confidence
Visit the school together to meet teachers and see where your child will be spending their day. Talk to your child about what they can expect during the school year. If they are nervous, let them know it’s normal. Have a buddy for bus rides or carpools to make going to school easier. Reduce bullying by forming positive connections in after-school and mentoring programs. Praise your child: “Thank you for helping set out your school clothes for tomorrow!” or “Great job packing your backpack!” Practice positive self-talk: say “I can try this” instead of “I can’t do this.”
Talking About Their Feelings Builds Trust
Ask your child: “What was the best thing about your school day?” Acknowledge their feelings, even when emotions are tough because of conflict or disappointment. Practice coping skills such as belly breathing. Talk about their feelings: “It’s okay to feel…” and “I’m so glad you told me about…” Try belly breathing together: put both hands on your belly, breathe in slowly through your nose, then breathe out slowly through your mouth.
You Know Your Child Best. If You Think Your Child Needs More Help:
Talk to your child’s teachers about how you can support their needs at school. If your child’s feelings are affecting their sleep or school, talk to school behavioral health staff or the Lowell Community Health Center’s School-Based Health Center team about ways to help. Consider a health check-up to stay up to date on your child’s routine care.
Community Comes Out to Support Lowell Community Health Center Patients and Staff
Governor Healey and Mayor Rourke Officially Declare Health Center Week in Massachusetts and the City of Lowell
Lowell, MA – This week, Lowell Community Health Center held a community celebration to honor the health center’s 55th birthday. Attended by more than 200 supporters, elected officials, and community partners, the fundraising event was also part of this week’s national celebration of community health centers.
Collectively, community health centers are the United States’ largest network of primary care providers. In Massachusetts, about one in seven residents choose community health centers as their health care home. At Lowell Community Health Center, nearly one-third of all children in Lowell receive their care through the health center, which serves more than 41,000 individuals.
The community celebration included a number of speakers, many of whom had personal connections to the health center.
Lowell Community Health Center CEO, Susan West Levine, noted, “We are the front door to integrated care – where you can see a doctor, nurse practitioner, a case manager, a mental health counselor and get your prescriptions or your glasses and if you need, your dental cleaning…all under ONE roof. We are the community health center for everyone in this community. Our doors are for everyone.”
Lowell Community Health Center Board Member, Bopha Som Boutselis spoke about The Power to Care and visiting the health center as a patient, “I still remember… walking into [the health center] and seeing yourself reflected in the faces of other patients and the staff. I saw a true reflection of our community. I was not afraid to ask questions because I knew someone would understand me and be able to answer me. That made me feel hopeful and relaxed. This is what Lowell CHC stands for in this community. That is The Power to Care.”
Governor Maura Healey sent the health center a proclamation—co-signed by Lt. Governor Kimberley Driscoll and Secretary of the Commonwealth William Galvin—declaring this week Massachusetts Community Health Center Week. In her proclamation, the Governor noted,
“Massachusetts Community Health Centers have created over 17,800 jobs, including physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, licensed family therapists and certified nurse-midwives, who work as part of multi-disciplinary clinical teams designed to treat the whole patient, and generated over $2,800,000,000 in total economic activity in 2021.”
Mayor Daniel Rourke, who attended the event in person along with City Council Vice Chair Paul Ratha Yem and Councilor Wayne Jenness, proclaimed August 4 through August 10, 2025, as National Health Center Week in the City of Lowell. In the official proclamation, he “encourage(s) all residents to celebrate the 55th anniversary of Lowell Community Health Center and to recognize its vital role in building a healthier… community for all.”
Representatives from U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren’s office, as well as from Congresswoman Lori Trahan’s office, were also in attendance. Each presented citations and notes on behalf of the members. U.S. Senator Edward Markey sent a citation to commemorate the week’s celebration. These citations included:
U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren: “Since its founding, the Lowell Health Center has displayed meaningful commitment to providing exceptional healthcare and experiences to patients through competent and reliable service. Thank you for everything you do for your patients.”
U.S. Senator Edward Markey: Presented a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition,
“In honor of 55 years of providing compassionate, high-quality healthcare for Greater Lowell, dedicated advocacy on behalf of their patients, and outstanding and invaluable service to the community.”
U.S. Congresswoman Lori Trahan: Presented a Congressional Proclamation in Recognition of Lowell Community Health Center, which read in part, “The care provided by community health centers like Lowell CHC has never been more essential, offering not only medical treatment, but also connection, continuity, and compassion at a time when accessible health care is critical to both individual and community well-being.”
Massachusetts State Representative Vanna Howard, who also attended the event in person, presented the health center with a citation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives, co-signed by Representatives Rodney Elliott and Tara Hong, as well as Speaker Ronald Mariano.
Representatives from the office of Massachusetts State Senator Ed Kennedy presented the health center with a Commonwealth of Massachusetts State Senate Official Citation, also signed by Senate President Karen Spilka, “In recognition of 55 years of providing medical care and services to over 41,000 patients in the Greater Lowell Area.”
CEO Susan West Levine emphasized the importance of elected support, “We couldn’t do the work we do without the support of our legislative delegations, and we are all so lucky to have them in Lowell, in Boston and in Washington fighting for and protecting healthcare access for all.”
About Lowell Community Health Center
Lowell Community Health Center, established in 1970, is the healthcare home of choice for more than 41,000 individuals in Greater Lowell. For 55 years, our mission has remained constant: to provide comprehensive, high-quality care to all—regardless of income or insurance status. Today, as we celebrate The Power to Care, we continue to bring together care and compassion under one roof. Our integrated model connects patients to medical, dental, behavioral health, vision, and pharmacy services—all designed to meet the evolving needs of our community.
Getting Your Kids on the Right Track for Back-to-School: Walk-In Vaccine Clinic and School-Based Appointments Available
As families prepare for the start of a new school year, Lowell Community Health Center is making it easier than ever to ensure children are up to date on required vaccines.
On Saturday, August 23rd, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Lowell CHC will host a special walk-in vaccine clinic for pediatric patients. The clinic will take place at the Pediatric Department, located at 161 Jackson Street in Lowell. No appointment is needed.
In addition to the walk-in clinic, Lowell Public School families can also schedule back-to-school vaccine appointments and physicals at Lowell High School or through our School-Based Health Center Mobile Unit at various locations on August 12th, 19th, and 26th. These appointments are open to any student enrolled in Lowell Public Schools and can be made by calling 978-746-7770.
“Back-to-school season should be a time of excitement—not stress,” said Cindy Slaga, Director of School-Based Health for Lowell CHC. “Whether it is a required vaccine or routine care, we are here to help families stay on track with care they can count on.”
For more information or to make an appointment: