East Elm Pediatrics Joins BHS Provider Practices

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Berkshire Health Systems (BHS) has announced that East Elm Pediatrics has joined the BHS medical group.
 
Effective Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024, East Elm Pediatrics became Berkshire Health Pediatrics at East Elm, retaining the majority of the office staff and clinical care team. Dr. John C. Dallenbach will remain at the practice during the transition period.  
 
BHS is also in the process of actively recruiting new pediatric specialists to join the patient care team.
 
"We are pleased to continue the dedicated care services that East Elm Pediatrics has provided through Berkshire Health Pediatrics at East Elm," said James Lederer, MD, BHS Chief Medical Officer and Chief Quality Officer. "The landscape for primary care and pediatrics has changed dramatically over the last decade, making it increasingly harder for offices to continue as stand-alone practices. By joining with Berkshire Health Systems, East Elm Pediatrics can continue to care for the region’s children and families and can expand the practice to meet their needs now and well into the future.
 
The office remains at 426 East St. in Pittsfield. For hours of operation and appointments, call Berkshire Health Pediatrics at East Elm at 413-442-8267 or for more information visit online at www.berkshirehealthsystems.org/eastelm

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New Camp Is Safe Place for Children Suffering Loss to Addiction

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

Last year's Happy Campers courtesy of Max Tabakin.
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A new camp is offering a safe place for children who have lost a parent or guardian to addiction. 
 
Director Gayle Saks founded the nonprofit "Camp Happy Place" last year. The first camp was held in June with 14 children.
 
Saks is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor who works at the Brien Center. One of her final projects when studying was how to involve youth, and a camp came to mind. Camp had been her "happy place" growing up, and it became her dream to open her own.
 
"I keep a bucket list in my wallet, and it's right on here on this list, and I cross off things that I've accomplished," she said. "But it is the one thing on here that I knew I had to do."
 
The overnight co-ed camp is held at a summer camp in Winsted, Conn., where Saks spent her summers as a child. It is four nights and five days and completely free. Transportation is included as are many of the items needed for camping. The camp takes up to 30 children.
 
"I really don't think there's any place that exists specifically for this population. I think it's important to know, we've said this, but that it is not a therapeutic camp," Saks said.
 
She said the focus is on fun for the children, though they are able to talk to any of the volunteer and trained staff. The staff all have experience in social work, addiction and counseling, and working with children.
 
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