18 Degrees Hosts Info Sessions on Becoming a Foster Parent

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — 18 Degrees announced a series of informative sessions for individuals and families interested in becoming foster parents. Interested parties can select from information sessions held virtually on Sept. 26 at 12:30 pm, Sept. 30 at 7:30 pm, and Oct. 9 at 9:00 am.
 
Registration information is available online, www.18degreesma.org.
 
Foster care plays a crucial role in providing safe, nurturing environments for children who have experienced trauma and instability. The need for foster families is greater now than ever, and 18 Degrees is dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and loving environment, according to a press release.
 
Each info session will cover:
  • Understanding Foster Care: Learn about the foster care system, its purpose, and the types of children in need of foster homes.
  • Requirements to Become a Foster Parent: Discover the qualifications needed, the application process, and what’s expected from foster parents.
  • Support and Resources: Explore the training, resources, and ongoing support available to foster parents through 18 Degrees.
  • Personal Testimonials: Hear inspiring stories from current foster parents and how the experience has enriched their lives.
"Fostering is more than providing a roof over a child’s head; it's about creating a sense of belonging, offering stability and nurturing the potential in each child," said Stephanie Steed, President and CEO of 18 Degrees. "We invite anyone who has considered becoming a foster parent or is simply curious about the process to join us. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in our community."
 
All community members are welcome. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and meet staff members from the 18 Degrees Healing Homes team.
 
"Over the past seven years with Healing Homes, our family has welcomed nearly 30 children," said Alicia, a foster parent with 18 Degrees. "Whether it was just for a night, three years, or any period in between, we are incredibly grateful for the time we spent with each child. The dedicated staff at 18 Degrees has been an anchor, helping us celebrate milestones and navigate challenges."
 
For more information about the info sessions or to RSVP, please contact Sarah Frederick at info@18degreesma.org or visit www.18degreesma.org
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

BHS Recognized for Digital Health Achievement

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) has announced the results of the 2025 Digital Health Most Wired Survey, an internationally recognized benchmarking program that honors excellence in digitally enabled healthcare. 
 
Berkshire Health Systems (BHS) is proud to announce its Level 8 achievement for both Acute and Ambulatory categories.
 
Among the more than 50,000 facilities represented, BHS ranked in clinical quality and safety, analytics and data management, cybersecurity, population health, infrastructure, patient engagement and innovation. The survey evaluates the adoption maturity, outcomes and value of technology integration across healthcare organizations at all stages of digital maturity – from early phase digitization to advanced transformation.
 
The Digital Health Most Wired survey serves as a comprehensive evaluation and digital maturity report card for healthcare organizations across the globe. As success in digital transformation increasingly influences the quality and accessibility of care, this recognition program reflects the progress of leading healthcare providers as they reshape the future of healthcare. This achievement extends beyond information technology to every area of the enterprise, symbolizing a collective commitment to advancing health and care through strategic digital initiatives.
 
"Berkshire Health Systems has consistently been an early adopter and leader in the utilization of digital technology to improve healthcare quality, safety, security and engagement with our patients across the spectrum of care," said William Young, BHS Chief Information Officer. "I am proud of the incredible commitment of our IT team to excellence in serving our hospitals, practices, and our community."
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