(NEPM) Holyoke — Massachusetts new state-of-the-art Veterans Home in Holyoke was unveiled Thursday, marking a major milestone in the transformation of veterans care in the state.
Formerly known as the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home, the facility was constructed at the site of a deadly 2020 COVID-19 outbreak, where at least 76 veterans died — a tragedy that helped the push to replace it.
The new facility will expand capacity to 234 beds and provide veterans with comfortable living spaces designed to promote independence and community say officials involved in its design and construction. A new Memorial Garden at the entrance of the “campus” will honor veterans who passed away at the original Home, especially those lost during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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“After it became clear that nothing about the status quo was working in Holyoke, our Legislature—led in large part by Senator John Velis and Senator Michael Rush…. pledged that the residents of our Veterans Home would have nothing but the very best,” Spilka said.
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The Home has also expanded services for women veterans, eliminated the use of temporary agency staff and now relies on permanent employees, and strengthened safety practices.
Holyoke and Chelsea have both achieved full state and federal licensure and certification from the Department of Public Health, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
“This ribbon cutting marks an important milestone for Holyoke and the Commonwealth, reflecting a shared investment in our veterans and their well-being,” said Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia. “We are …grateful to the veterans, their families, and the dedicated staff who fulfill its mission.”
Construction ran ahead of schedule, according to the Healey administration, with remaining work on the campus expected to be completed by summer 2028.
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