The BEAR PAW Center at Western New England University is inviting community members throughout Western Massachusetts who face barriers to accessing occupational therapy services to take advantage of its free programs designed to improve health, independence, and overall quality of life.
Located on Western New England University's campus, the BEAR PAW Center provides free occupational therapy services to individuals, regardless of insurance coverage. The center does not bill insurance providers or charge clients for services. The services are delivered by OTD students under the direct supervision of a licensed occupational therapist, offering clients personalized care while helping students gain valuable hands-on clinical experience. In addition to in person appointments, the center also offers telehealth services, expanding access to care for individuals and families who may face transportation, scheduling, or other barriers to receiving treatment.
The BEAR PAW Center, which stands for Bringing Equity, Accessibility, and Rehabilitation to People Achieving Wellness, is one of the first student-run occupational therapy pro bono clinics in the country and serves as a model for similar programs nationwide. Through the center, Western New England students work directly with community members while applying classroom knowledge in real world settings.
"Access to occupational therapy can be life changing, but not everyone has the ability to receive the services they need," said Brittany Adams, chair of Occupational Therapy. "The BEAR PAW Center helps bridge that gap by providing individualized support to members of our community while giving students meaningful opportunities to apply their skills in real world clinical settings."
Occupational therapy helps people develop, regain, or strengthen the skills needed for everyday activities. Services can benefit individuals of all ages, including those recovering from injury or surgery, managing chronic conditions, adapting to age-related changes, or seeking greater independence in their daily lives.
The center serves both pediatric and adult clients with a wide range of needs. Pediatric occupational therapy focuses on helping children build skills necessary for success at home, in school, and in the community. Through purposeful and engaging activities, student clinicians assist children with challenges related to self-care, handwriting, fine motor development, sensory processing, social interaction, and other daily tasks.
The center also hosts a pediatric playgroup on Tuesdays from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. for children ages 18 months to 3 and a half years. Held on the Western New England University campus, the playgroup provides opportunities for children to socialize through play and participate in structured activities that support early development.
Adult services support individuals experiencing physical, cognitive, or mental health challenges that affect independence and participation in meaningful activities. Treatment plans are tailored to each client's unique goals and circumstances.
Community members interested in learning more about the BEAR PAW Center or scheduling an appointment are encouraged to contact the center for additional information. Call (413) 796-2174 or email bear.paw.center@wne.edu.
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