Bridgewell opens new Lynn adult daycare center

LYNN – Bridgewell has assumed operation of a Lynn “day-habilitation” center for adults with developmental disabilities.The Lynnfield-based private human services agency, formerly known as Greater Lynn Mental Health & Retardation Association, was asked by the state Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to consider taking over the facility from Triangle, Inc., the organization no longer able to manage it.”The fact Bridgewell was approached by DDS reflects well on Bridgewell’s expertise and proven success in providing day-habilitation services,” said Kelly Johnson, chief operations officer at Bridgewell. “The new program fits well into our existing operations as Bridgewell was already providing day-habilitation services at four other locations in three communities.”The new facility off the Lynnway will provide services to 19 people, according to Jannelyn Spratt, Bridgewell’s director of public relations and marketing.All of Bridgewell’s day-habilitation programs promote community experience and address self care, nutrition, household skills, communication and sensory, motor, behavioral and social development, said Spratt, adding that services are provided both on-site as well as in the community to offer a variety of program options.Ability levels and groupings range from mild to intensive special needs and each Bridgewell day-habilitation program is tailored to meet the needs and preferences of the participants, she said.All those who will receive services at the new Lynn program live in Greater Lynn and some have been dually diagnosed with both developmental and psychiatric disabilities. The new program focuses on community volunteer opportunities that allow the individuals to regularly participate in volunteer activities and projects, keeping them engaged and involved while also benefiting the local community, Spratt said.