News

“Although we live in an age and place in the Merrimack Valley where cellphones, tablets, computers and smart devices are commonplace and virtual medicine has seemed like a tangible idea to many, the leap from in-center to telephonic and virtual medicine had never materialized. Then an unfathomable crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, came along.”

“When Karen Peugh first visited Life Connection Center, she was amazed by the nonprofit’s approach to its care for the city’s homeless population. She was touched that the organization provided a plated, wait- service meal for its visitors. ‘To have people wait on them and serve them is very unique, and their approach … it’s about the individual and helping them to realize and remember that they still matter to their communities,’ said Peugh, senior director of integrated care management at Lowell Community Health Center.”

“I stand in line, ready to shove a Q-tip up my nose. My feet are planted on a black mat that reads, ‘Thank you for practicing social distancing.’ The rumble of idling cars permeates the Lowell Health Department’s parking lot. Around me, dozens of community members wait for a free COVID-19 test, offered as part of the state’s “Stop the Spread” initiative. The program targets eight municipalities — Lowell, Chelsea, Everett, Fall River, Lawrence, Lynn, Marlboro and New Bedford — in which the number of coronavirus cases and positive test rates are above the state average. These areas have also seen a drop in testing since April, according to Gov. Charlie Baker’s office.”

“Political leaders who proudly promote this city’s rich diversity with annual festivals celebrating cultures of origin from Southeast Asia to Africa were taken aback last month when their “listening session” on race elicited residents’ painful experiences with racism right here in Lowell.”