As HEFA winds down, our number one priority continues to be the nonprofit organizations we have served for more than 40 years. HEFA’s staff has been working to ensure a smooth transition for our clients, while keeping funds flowing to finance important projects that will strengthen the Commonwealth. In fact at HEFA’s August Board meeting, under the new leadership of MassDevelopment’s Board, six financing projects were approved totaling more than $240 million. We will continue to work in collaboration with MassDevelopment’s staff to maintain the programs and ideals which will make up HEFA’s legacy.

$400 Million Natural Gas Deal to Benefit 500 Members

Boston, June 24, 2010 - More than 500 nonprofit companies and government entities will have access to lower natural gas prices and greater energy cost predictability under a $400 million agreement announced today between PowerOptions and Hess Energy Marketing, part of Hess Corporation (NYSE:HES).

The four-year contract allows members of PowerOptions, the premiere energy buying organization in the Commonwealth, to buy natural gas at reduced costs - despite having signed longer-term contracts at higher prices. The deal will allow members of PowerOptions to blend their previous higher prices with today's unprecedented low market prices - resulting in greater predictability for members and cost savings in the near term.

The immediate cost reductions come at a time when many nonprofits and governmental entities, particularly cities and towns, are facing unprecedented budget deficits.

"Many of our members lock in prices years in advance to ensure budget predictability and to guard against market fluctuations," said PowerOptions CEO and President Cynthia Arcate. "Locking in prices made sense in the face of rapidly escalating natural gas prices. But now that prices have plummeted, our members deserve the chance to benefit now."

The new contract extends PowerOptions' existing contract with Hess to October 2015 and includes the same flexible pricing options as well as a new "swing" option, which allows members to receive a discount for limiting their usage to committed amounts.

"Hess has the experience, scale and infrastructure to deliver a reliable, cost-effective supply of natural gas at very competitive prices," said Jim Connolly, regional sales director for Hess Energy Marketing's Northern Region. "We're pleased to extend our relationship with PowerOptions to serve nonprofits and government entities throughout Massachusetts."

Arcate said the contract creates a new pricing option for PowerOptions' largest members, many of whom are now installing clean energy heating and power projects and can manage their energy usage better than in the past. This offers a benefit to Hess as the supplier and PowerOptions members should benefit from that, she said.

"This contract represents a powerful new tool for our members to monitor and control their energy usage and costs which, in the volatility of our energy markets, is an exceptional advantage we have been offering members for more than a decade," Arcate said.

PowerOptions members spent $1.2 billion and accrued $300 million in savings over the first decade of its operation. Members now spend more than $220 million per year on energy through PowerOptions.

About PowerOptions®

The award-winning PowerOptions® was formed by HEFA in 1996 and today operates as a stand-alone nonprofit organization. It is among the largest electricity and natural gas purchasing consortiums in Massachusetts, with $220 million of annual energy commodity purchases and a combined demand of approximately 200 megawatts of electricity and 11 million dekatherms of natural gas usage. Any nonprofit or public institution in Massachusetts may become a member and participate in this collective purchasing effort. For more information, visit www.poweroptions.org.

About Hess Energy Marketing

Hess Energy Marketing, part of Hess Corporation (NYSE:HES), is the largest provider of natural gas, fuel oil and electricity to commercial and industrial customers in the 18-state market area in which it operates. The business also provides natural gas, electricity and a full range of oil products to utilities and other wholesale customers and is supported by extensive assets and regional sales and operations. For more information, please visit www.hessenergy.com

Worcester, MA, June 21 - UMass Memorial Health Care completed a $60.5 million tax-exempt bond issue through the Massachusetts Health and Education Facilities Authority (HEFA), to refinance nearly $60 million of UMass Memorial Health Care's existing debt. The refinancing will lead to approximately $6 million in savings for the hospital system, or 9.7 percent.

"As a leading nonprofit health care provider in Massachusetts, we understand how important these savings are to UMass Memorial in helping them reinvest these savings back into their health care mission," said Benson T. Caswell, HEFA executive director. "We are pleased to give UMass Memorial Health Care the opportunity to save by refinancing two bonds originally issued in 1992 and 1993."

The refinanced bonds were originally issued in the early 1990's, and helped build the Memorial Campus at UMass Memorial. Additional funds were issued to HealthAlliance Hospital, then Central New England Health Alliance.

"At UMass Memorial Health Care, we are trying to control the cost of healthcare in every possible way that we can," said John G. O'Brien, president and CEO at UMass Memorial Health Care. "This refinancing is a testament to the hard work and unwavering commitment to improving the health of our community we all share at UMass Memorial Health Care."

"By working with HEFA to refinance outstanding bonds, we now have the opportunity to use this savings to help reduce the cost of healthcare and to combat the medical inflation in cost structures," said Todd Keating, senior vice president and chief financial officer at UMass Memorial Health Care.

The money HEFA saves its nonprofit partners allows them to reinvest in their facilities, expand important services and employ more citizens of Massachusetts. Last year alone, HEFA financed 63 projects for hospitals, colleges and other nonprofit institutions across the state that totaled more than $3.2 billion and saved them more than $600 million in debt service cost.

UMass Memorial Healthcare is the largest health care system in central and western Massachusetts, and is the clinical partner of University of Massachusetts Medical School. This nonprofit system includes a complete health care continuum, with a multi-campus academic medical center, member and affiliated community hospitals, community-based physician practices, ambulatory clinics, home health agencies, hospice programs and rehabilitation and behavior health services. Hospital members include Clinton Hospital, Marlborough Hospital, HealthAlliance Hospital and Wing Memorial Hospital.

"UMass Memorial Health Care provides world class health care to the people of Worcester and is an essential part of the community," said Senator Harriette Chandler (D-Worcester). "Thanks to HEFA, the considerable savings realized by this financing can be focused on renewing additional community programs and the funds will go a long way in improving UMass Memorial Health Care's infrastructure."

"HEFA is providing UMass Memorial Health Care with the necessary savings to help them continue serving the people of Worcester with the highest level of health care possible," said Representative Vincent Pedone (D-Worcester). "I am delighted HEFA has provided UMass Memorial Health Care with this refinancing to help them continue to go the extra mile and maintain their commitment to the community and the region."

UMass Memorial Health Care is Central Massachusetts' largest not-for-profit health care delivery system, covering the complete health care continuum with UMass Memorial Medical Center, its academic medical center, member and affiliated community hospitals, freestanding primary care practices, ambulatory outpatient clinics, home health agencies, hospice programs, a rehabilitation group and mental heath services. UMass Memorial is the clinical partner of the University of Massachusetts Medical School. Visit www.umassmemorial.org or follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/umassmemorial for additional information.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no taxpayer dollars. HEFA provides funding for hospitals, colleges and universities, cultural institutions, research centers and human service providers. In the last five years, HEFA provided more than $12 billion in low-cost financing to Massachusetts nonprofits, saving them more than $2.5 billion in debt service costs-savings which go back into their operating budgets to help them further their missions and enrich the lives of everyone in the Commonwealth.

Milford, MA, June 8 - Milford Regional Medical Center will be able to further enhance its quality care to patients throughout the region through a $4 million capital financing completed today with the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA). The financing, through HEFA's Value Lease program, provides the hospital with a low-cost loan to acquire essential medical equipment and software to enable the hospital to deliver the best quality care to patients in Greater Milford.

"At Milford Regional Medical Center, our mission is to deliver the highest quality of patient care," said Edward J. Kelly, President of Milford Regional Medical Center. "This financing allows us to continue to provide state-of-the-art medical equipment and current software to our patients right in their backyard."

"Milford Regional Medical Center is focused on delivering the highest quality of care to their patients, and an essential part of that is regularly updating its equipment and technology," said Benson T. Caswell, HEFA Executive Director. "HEFA is proud to help the Greater Milford community by offering an efficient, cost-saving solution that is even more important in today's constantly changing healthcare environment."

The lease will allow Milford Regional Medical Center to purchase the most up-to-date hospital equipment, including a cardiovascular ultrasound echo system and ultrasound bronchoscope system. As part of the hospital's goal to fully implement a more efficient, secure electronic medical record system, Milford Regional Medical Center will improve computer storage and data through software upgrades and purchases.

"HEFA provides a critical service to the Massachusetts nonprofit community and we appreciate the opportunity to work with their talented, dedicated staff to achieve the best possible financing for our projects," said Jeanne P. Lynskey, Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer of Milford Regional Medical Center.

Milford Regional Medical Center is a 121-bed acute care community and regional teaching hospital that serves a region of more than 20 towns. Established in 1903, the hospital operates facilities in Milford, Whitinsville and Franklin and provides a full range of community hospital services, including medicine, emergency medicine, surgery, obstetrics, gynecology, orthopedics and pediatrics.

"As we continue to grapple with rising costs, we must not lose sight of the critical goal of health care, which is providing patients with the highest quality of care," said Senator Richard T. Moore (D-Uxbridge), Chairman of the Legislature's Joint Committee on Health Care Financing. "By acquiring vital medical equipment and software updates through HEFA, Milford Regional Medical Center will continue meeting that goal of providing quality care, and do so at a cost that will allow them to maintain their commitment to residents of Milford and the region."

"HEFA is providing Milford Regional Medical Center with necessary equipment and system upgrades to help them continue serving the people of Milford with the best equipment and technology available," said Representative John Fernandes (D-Milford). "This is an excellent situation for the community and I am delighted this prestigious medical center is going the extra mile to keep its facility up-to-date."

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no taxpayer dollars. HEFA provides funding for hospitals, colleges and universities, cultural institutions, research centers and human service providers. Last year alone, HEFA provided more than $3.2 billion in low-cost financing to Massachusetts nonprofits, saving them more than $600 million in debt service costs.

Boston, May 28 -Moving to offset a school deficit estimated at reaching as high as $3.5 million in 2012, Chelsea Public Schools has signed an exclusive, new electricity contract which will provide the school system with first year savings of $178,000 and subsequent annual savings of $58,000 through PowerOptions' Electricity Supply Program with Direct Energy.

Chelsea Public Schools join a strong and growing movement by school systems to be more strategic and creative with their soaring energy costs by working with PowerOptions. Over the last decade, 46 school systems and local municipalities have been working with PowerOptions on energy contracts. Starting with only 12 schools in 2001, PowerOptions has added 31 individual school systems across the Commonwealth since 2004.

The three-year agreement, which begins in June, will provide Chelsea Public Schools with a significant amount of savings that will be used to fund critical school programs and teacher positions, officials said.

"The PowerOptions program has been an invaluable resource in helping Chelsea Public Schools control its energy costs," said Chelsea Public Schools Superintendent, Thomas Kingston.

"As a school system, we are always looking for ways to spend our money smartly and preserve public resources for the classroom."

"We are pleased to be able to provide Chelsea Public Schools with this significant level of savings," said PowerOptions President and CEO Cynthia Arcate. "We understand how important it is for city school systems to cut costs where they can, so they can reinvest those funds into more critical areas such as teachers' salaries, school equipment and supplies."

"I applaud this decision by Chelsea Public Schools, which highlights their commitment to making fiscally responsible decisions that ensure that more funding is allocated to the place it is needed most - in the classrooms," said Senator Sal DiDomenico (D-Everett).

"We appreciate the help that Direct Energy has been able to provide us by locking us into the new lower rate," said Chelsea Public Schools Executive Director for Administration and Finance, Gerry McCue. "These resources not only enable us to provide a comfortable learning space for our students, but more importantly, the additional savings enable us to preserve our precious resources for other important areas in our budget."

"Any efforts to save money are appreciated by all during these fiscally challenging times," said

State Representative Eugene L. O'Flaherty (D-Chelsea). "I am very pleased that Direct Energy is working to help us control costs."

"Now more than ever it is important to save money and ease budgets wherever possible," said Representative Kathi-Anne Reinstein (D-Chelsea). "I applaud both the Chelsea Public Schools and PowerOptions for bringing this incredible opportunity to save now and in the future to fruition."

About Chelsea Public Schools

Chelsea Public Schools is a diverse, urban school district just north of Boston, Massachusetts. Teachers, administrators, and support staff, from pre-kindergarten through grade twelve, are dedicated to providing Chelsea students with a Bridge to Success, a commitment that graduates of Chelsea High School will be fully prepared for college and career by having 21st century skills, developing high aspirations, and receiving excellence in teaching and learning.

About PowerOptions®

The award-winning PowerOptions® was formed by HEFA in 1996 and today operates as a stand-alone nonprofit organization. It is among the largest electricity and natural gas purchasing consortiums in Massachusetts, with $220 million of annual energy commodity purchases and a combined demand of approximately 200 megawatts of electricity and 11 million dekatherms of natural gas usage. Any nonprofit or public institution in Massachusetts may become a member and participate in this collective purchasing effort. For more information, visit www.poweroptions.org.

Norton, MA, May 4 - Wheaton College will soon be able to provide students with enhanced facilities for research and study in the sciences through the college's new 99,000 square foot Science Center project. Made possible in part by a $31.4 million tax-exempt bond issue by the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA), the project will include renovation of an existing building and the construction of a new three-story center with modern research labs, classrooms, faculty offices and common areas to ensure that the new facilities serve all students.

The design of the project reflects Wheaton's commitment to rigorous study of the sciences in a liberal arts environment, and is the college's most ambitious project to date. To be completed in fall 2011, the new science facility is projected to cost approximately $42 million.

"We are proud to be a part of such an excellent addition to the Wheaton campus, both academically and for the community," said Benson T. Caswell, HEFA Executive Director. "The new Science Center will provide the students and faculty with much-needed research space and improve Wheaton's offerings in the sciences."

"This project makes a bold statement about Wheaton's commitment to the sciences and to high-quality liberal arts education for all students," said Wheaton College President Ronald Crutcher. "This investment reflects our belief that scientific literacy and research are critical components of a 21st century liberal arts education."

"In addition, the new science center builds on what makes Wheaton distinctive. The design for the project encourages active learning and collaboration, and it will allow our students and faculty to fully develop the Connections curriculum, which strengthens students' capacity to engage the perspectives of multiple disciplines."

An important goal of the project is to create a facility that promotes the college's unique Connections curriculum, by creating spaces that facilitate collaboration among students and faculty that encourage interdisciplinary learning and research. The innovative design of the Science Center creates public spaces such as an open café and numerous study and conference rooms that encourage students and faculty to use the facility in ways that extend well beyond scheduled class and lab times.

"I am delighted that this prestigious institution of higher learning is able to make improvements to its science center," said Senator James E. Timilty (D-Walpole). "The plans for renovation and expansion are truly impressive and will provide students with a state of the art facility."

"This is an excellent situation for the community and it's fantastic that Wheaton College is able to move forward with this project," said Representative Jay Barrows (R-Mansfield). "The new Science Center will help prop us up with our attempts to attract additional life sciences to the region by providing students at Wheaton with superior education opportunities. We've been working hard in our communities to attract life sciences and manufacturing work and we hope that educating local students and keeping them in the area will prove to be a very good investment."

The completed Science Center will incorporate a host of features that will enable the building to earn LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), reflecting on Wheaton's commitment to environmental sustainability. LEED is a nationally recognized benchmark for sustainable buildings established by the U.S. Green Building Council.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for hospitals, cultural institutions, research centers and human service providers, as well as energy procurement services to all nonprofit, state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program.

Now celebrating the 175^th anniversary of its founding, Wheaton is a highly-selective, Boston-area liberal arts college with a student body of 1,550. It is ranked among the top ten colleges in the country in producing Fulbright Scholars. Overall, the college's students have won more than 120 national scholarship prizes, including three Rhodes Scholarships, since 2000.

Extends Affordable Power Solutions to Nonprofits with Innovative New Ability to Access Wholesale Market

Boston, April 14, 2010 - PowerOptions has signed an extended four year agreement with Direct Energy Business, LLC worth $500 million to supply electricity to its 500 members, continuing its mission of providing Massachusetts nonprofits, cities and towns with affordable energy solutions.

The new agreement with Direct Energy allows PowerOptions members access to purchasing directly from the wholesale market, signaling a sea change in the way power is purchased by area employers. The contract's prices take advantage of today's market, hovering near a record low, and provide businesses with dependability and predictability on energy bills well into the future.

"Once again, PowerOptions has been able to secure a favorable supply arrangement that meets the diverse needs of our members - large and small - including buying in bulk directly from the wholesale energy market, without the administrative and financial burdens associated with that kind of market participation," said PowerOptions President and CEO Cynthia Arcate.

Dennis Villanueva, Utilities Manager for Partners HealthCare System, says direct participation in the wholesale market can be a very burdensome and expensive proposition for some customers. "This pricing option developed by PowerOptions is innovative and shows how PowerOptions continues to be on the cutting edge of aggregation in the retail competitive market as it has since its inception in 1997," Villanueva said.

"Our relationship with PowerOptions, and our ability to offer them and their customers such innovative energy solutions, is made possible by the competitive market here in Massachusetts," says Mike Senff, Direct Energy Business Vice President, Sales and Marketing. "We operate in many markets throughout North America and know that as we develop new approaches to products and services, we have a receptive audience in the PowerOptions team to tailor these products to their unique customer base."

There are over 500 members in PowerOptions, about 350 of which currently buy electricity through the PowerOptions program, including several large state facilities.

"With that kind of demand, we can design a program that provides favorable terms for all of our members - large and small - to meet the level of risk and sophistication they have with the competitive market" says Arcate.

"For our smaller members, they can opt for a fixed all-in price that they know is fair, market- based and predictable for budget purposes."

About PowerOptions®
The award-winning PowerOptions® was formed by HEFA in 1996 and operates as a stand-alone nonprofit organization. It is among the largest electricity and natural gas purchasing consortiums in Massachusetts, with $220 million of annual energy commodity purchases and a combined demand of approximately 200 megawatts of electricity and 11 Bcf of natural gas usage. Any nonprofit or public institution in Massachusetts may become a member and participate in this collective purchasing effort. For more information, visit www.poweroptions.org.

About HEFA
HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for hospitals, cultural institutions, research centers and human service providers, as well as energy procurement services to all nonprofit, state and municipal facilities through PowerOptions®, its energy buying consortium.

Fulfilling its mission to save money for nonprofits, last year alone HEFA provided more than $3.2 billion in low-cost financing, saving nonprofits $600 million in debt service costs. Find out how at www.mhefa.org.

About Direct Energy
Direct Energy Business is one of North America's largest commercial retail energy suppliers and a Direct Energy company. With more than 20 years of industry experience, Direct Energy Business is dedicated to helping customers make cost-effective choices for their electricity and natural gas requirements. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, Direct Energy Business serves nearly 50,000 customers in 14 states, the District of Columbia and five Canadian provinces. Direct Energy is wholly owned by Centrica plc. (LSE:CNA,) one of the world's leading integrated energy companies. To learn more, visit www.directenergybusiness.com.

Boston, March 11 - Moving to fill a critical financing gap in energy efficiency solutions, the Massachusetts Health and Educational Financing Authority today announced a $4 million Green Loan Program for mid-sized nonprofits throughout the Commonwealth.

The Green Loan Program merges HEFA's four decades of work helping nonprofits save money with the expertise of PowerOptions, its energy buying consortium, to help nonprofits benefit from cost-efficient energy solutions.

The loans will help nonprofit organizations leverage programs and initiatives of the state and public utilities by providing the final gap funding component for efficiency projects-making up the difference between project costs and subsidies or rebates.

"Exposure to variability in energy costs weigh heavily on nonprofit institutions which, as we all know, operate under tight budget constraints in the best of times," said Benson T. Caswell, HEFA Executive Director. "With this new program we will be able to provide low-cost financing to fill critical funding gaps for projects which otherwise may not be undertaken."

"All employers want to lower their energy costs and, with the incentives available in the Commonwealth, more should be able to do so," said PowerOptions President and CEO Cynthia Arcate. "We believe this gap funding will allow many more nonprofits to significantly improve their energy efficiency and, ultimately, see significant cost savings."

HEFA created the Green Loan Program in response to nonprofits which indicated a critical gap existed in accessing funding for energy efficiency projects. The Massachusetts DPU recently approved a 3-year, $1.1 billion energy efficiency plan which provides unprecedented opportunities for nonprofits to install energy saving measures in their facilities. HEFA's new program dovetails with the state's efforts.

"The new loan program from HEFA comes at the perfect time for the Dimock Center," said Ruth Ellen Fitch, CEO of the Dimock Center. "We are in the early stages of several major energy efficiency projects, including the replacement of our 100 year old heating system, and we will look to HEFA to help us complete the funding for our projects."

Funding for projects is generally available through public utilities for small customers and larger customers can access low-cost, tax-exempt financing. That creates a funding gap for medium-sized customers, whose share of project costs generally range from $50,000 to $500,000.

The Green Loan Program will be available to all nonprofit charitable institutions in the Commonwealth who are members of HEFA's successful PowerOptions program. In order for a project to qualify for a loan, it must qualify for a utility sponsored Energy Efficiency program that has been authorized under the 3-year plan.

The program will provide loans of between $50,000 - $500,000. The approval process to obtain a loan will be based on the financial strength of the organization, feasibility of the project, amount of project related-savings and other project funding sources.

About HEFA

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for hospitals, cultural institutions, research centers and human service providers, as well as energy procurement services to all nonprofit, state and municipal facilities through PowerOptions®, its energy buying consortium.

Fulfilling its mission to save money for nonprofits, last year alone HEFA provided more than $3.2 billion in low-cost financing, saving nonprofits $600 million in debt service costs. Find out how at www.mhefa.org.

About PowerOptions®

The award-winning PowerOptions® was formed by HEFA in 1996 and operates as a stand-alone nonprofit organization. It is among the largest electricity and natural gas purchasing consortiums in Massachusetts, with $220 million of annual energy commodity purchases and a combined demand of approximately 200 megawatts of electricity and 11 Bcf of natural gas usage. Any nonprofit or public institution in Massachusetts may become a member and participate in this collective purchasing effort. For more information, visit www.poweroptions.org.

About the Dimock Center

The Dimock Center was founded in 1862 as the New England Hospital for Women and Children and is now nationally recognized as a model for the integrated delivery of comprehensive health care and human services in an urban community. In 2009, The Dimock Center's physicians and staff handled over 73,000 patient and client visits, providing Boston City residents and families access to high-quality health care and human services they might not be able to receive elsewhere.

The center's programs cover a range of services that include adult & pediatric medicine, eye & dental care, HIV/AIDS services, child & family development support programs, behavioral health and addiction recovery services and adult basic education.

For more information about The Dimock Center please visit www.dimock.org.

Beverly, Thursday, March 11 - This Spring, Endicott College located in Beverly, Mass. will begin construction of a new 260-bed residence hall on its campus with $10 million in tax-exempt bonds to be issued through the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA). The new residence hall will provide additional beds to accommodate new students and help to alleviate crowding in the college's existing residence halls.

"We are proud to be a part of helping Endicott College to expand its campus," said Benson T. Caswell, HEFA Executive Director. "Campus living is such an important part of the college experience and the construction of this new residence hall will help to add to the richness of the student experience at Endicott College."

The new four story residence hall will be constructed primarily from brick with accent pieces using different materials and will be placed on the hill between two similar and existing residence halls. A central tower that serves as a staircase to connect all levels will resemble a lighthouse and be the key focal point. A large courtyard will connect all three halls. The new hall will include spacious lobbies, lounges and kitchenettes on each floor, study nooks, and a fitness room. Each student room will house two students with a private bathroom.

"Endicott College's enrollment has significantly increased each year for the past 15 years. In 1995 the College enrolled 800 undergraduate students and today there are over 2,000 students enrolled on campus," said Endicott College President, Dr. Richard E. Wylie. "We are thrilled to be building this new residence hall, which will not only enhance student campus life, but also provide us with more space to accommodate new and existing students in our halls."

"This residence hall will be a welcomed addition to the Endicott College as the school continues to grow," said Senator Frederick E. Berry (D-Beverly). "With additional student housing, more students will be afforded the unique opportunity of experiencing life on campus. Thank you to HEFA and Endicott College for their vision and commitment to this project."

"With additional on-campus housing, students can more fully participate in college life," said State Representative Mary E. Grant. "At the same time, it opens up additional housing in the Beverly community."

Located in Beverly, Massachusetts on 231 acres of oceanfront property, Endicott College offers Master and Bachelor degree programs in the professional and liberal arts. Founded in 1939, Endicott provides an education built upon a combination of theory and practice, which is tested through internships and work experience. Studying at the Beverly campus, regionally, and internationally are approximately 2,200 undergraduate and more than 2,000 adult and graduate students.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for hospitals, cultural institutions, research centers and human service providers, as well as energy procurement services to all nonprofit, state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program.

Brighton, February 5th, 2010 - The Kennedy Day School will now be able to begin planning and construction on a more modernized and updated facility to serve the needs of children with special educational needs throughout eastern Massachusetts.

Renovations will be financed with an $11 million bond issue by the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA) that closed today. The HEFA financing provides a very low cost of capital, with an interest rate of 5 percent and Century Bank has agreed to purchase the tax-exempt bonds.

"The Kennedy Day School serves a special population of children with multiple, complex disabling conditions who need a unique combination of integrated special education, therapy and medical services," said Paul DellaRocco, Franciscan Hospital for Children President and CEO. "As technology and adaptive devices improve the quality of life for these children, the need for physical space to accommodate both has grown too. The renovation will provide bigger classrooms and wider hallways that will allow us to both optimize the staff to student ratio and accept more students from surrounding communities."

"The bonds HEFA is issuing will allow us to refinance some of our debt and improve the quality of education for children, which is an investment in many lifetimes. While the financial needs of the hospital are still great, we're pleased to be able to grow our educational offerings in these challenging economic times," said DellaRocco.

"Our mission is to cost-effectively finance projects for nonprofits to save them money, so they can focus on what they do best, providing for others in the community," said Benson T. Caswell, HEFA Executive Director. "The Kennedy Day School is vital to the education of Massachusetts' children with disabilities. We are very proud of the role we are playing in helping the school provide the best possible service to this important population."

"I can think of few more deserving institutions of a HEFA bond than the Kennedy Day School at Franciscan Hospital for Children," said state Senator Steven A. Tolman, D-Brighton. "I know from personal experience that the staff at the Kennedy School provides a world class education to each and every child who comes to the school. Franciscan and the Kennedy school operate on a shoestring budget and despite this they still manage to care for children in desperate need. Today, the hospital and school's facilities are in need of attention, and these funds will go a long way toward improving Franciscan's infrastructure. I am overjoyed that HEFA has decided to award this money to the school and know that the money will be well used and that the amazing work done at Franciscan's will continue for another 60 years, and beyond."

"Franciscan Hospital for Children's Kennedy Day School ensures that every child receives the education they deserve in a stimulating environment," said state Representative Kevin G. Honan, D-Brighton. "I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary work that goes on in this loving and nurturing school. This bond issue through HEFA will allow the school to continue its mission of enriching the lives of these children."

The Kennedy Day School serves over 70 boys and girls from 35 communities whose educational needs are most appropriately met outside their home school districts. Students have special needs in the areas of communication, mobility, motor control, vision, hearing, perceptual and cognitive skills and complex fragile health concerns.

The Kennedy Day School is onsite at Franciscan Hospital for Children, located in Brighton. Franciscan Hospital for Children is the leading pediatric rehabilitation center in New England. The hospital offers medical, behavioral and educational services for children with complex issues requiring interdisciplinary care. For more information on the hospital visit www.franciscanhospital.org.

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofits by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 63 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling more than $3.2 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA provides funding for health care, higher education and cultural institutions, research and human service facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program.

Springfield, Thursday, Feb. 4th, 2010 - Leaders from HEFA, the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority, congratulated Springfield College on its dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Richard B. Flynn Campus Union, which was held today. Made possible in part by a $50 million tax-exempt bond issue through HEFA, the new 58,500-square-foot facility contains many high-quality spaces in support of the college's extensive student activity programs. The Richard B. Flynn Campus Union is named in honor of the college's 12th president, who became president of the college in 1999.

"We applaud Springfield College and President Richard B. Flynn on this wonderful achievement," said Benson T. Caswell, HEFA Executive Director. "We are pleased that, with our help, the Richard B. Flynn Campus Union and Springfield College will continue to thrive and provide students with the tools they need to succeed in the future."

According to Flynn, "It is a proud moment for Springfield College to open this outstanding new hub of our campus. The campus union will dramatically enhance student life and facilitate our education of tomorrow's leaders. It is an architecturally magnificent and symbolic addition to our campus in this, the college's 125th year. Its traditional facades along Alden Street and Naismith Green complement our historic campus buildings and beautiful New England campus. The soaring modern glass side faces Lake Massasoit, allowing a spectacular vista for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and visitors. The new campus union -- including both space and programming -- is consistent with, and supportive of, our long-standing mission of educating students in spirit, mind, and body for leadership in service to others."

Other projects financed by the bond issue include renovations to Judd Gymnasia, the Athletic Training/Exercise Science facility, and the new Wellness and Recreation Complex, which received the 2009 Outstanding Sports Facilities Award from the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association.

"Springfield College is an important member of the local community, attracting students to the area and creating jobs," said Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno. "I congratulate the College and President Flynn on this important dedication."

"Springfield College is a driving force of the economy in the city of Springfield and of the entire lower pioneer valley," said Senator Stephen J. Buoniconti (D-West Springfield). "The dedication of this state of the art facility is a major achievement, and I congratulate Springfield College as well as HEFA on their successful partnership that made this day possible."

"Springfield College has been a good neighbor to Springfield, reaching out and providing assistance to the community through valuable programs," said State Representative, Benjamin Swan. "Their growth has been an important enhancement to the greater Springfield area, especially in our urban communities. I congratulate Dr. Flynn and his team for this accomplishment."

Springfield College was recently acknowledged as a major contributor to the regional economy by the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, in recognition of its revenues and economic role within the community.

HEFA supports Massachusetts' colleges and universities by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year alone, HEFA financed 63 projects across the Commonwealth totaling more than $3.2 billion and saved nonprofits more than $600 million.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for hospitals, cultural institutions, research centers and human service providers, as well as energy procurement services to all nonprofit, state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program.

Founded in 1885, Springfield College is known worldwide as the Birthplace of Basketball® and for the guiding principles of its humanics philosophy-educating students in spirit, mind, and body for leadership in service to others. With its foundation of academic excellence and rich athletic heritage, Springfield College prepares students with real-world leadership skills for tomorrow's careers that transform lives and communities. The college offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields of health sciences, human and social services, sport management and movement studies, education, business, and the arts and sciences. Doctoral programs are offered in physical education and physical therapy. The college is ranked in the 2010 edition of "America's Best Colleges" in the top tier of "Best Universities-Master's-North Region" by "U.S. News & World Report," and is designated as a premier Leadership Development Center by the YMCA of the USA. More than 5,000 traditional, nontraditional and international students study at its main campus in Springfield, Mass., and at its School of Human Services regional campuses located in 11 U.S. locations.

Made Possible in Part by $35 Million in HEFA Funding

Boston, Thursday, Jan. 22 - Leaders from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority today congratulated The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum on the announcement of a major new renovation made possible in part by a $35 million tax-exempt bond issue through HEFA.

"This restoration project will take the Gardner and its already world-renowned exhibits decades into the future and we are thrilled to have played our part in the financing," said Benson T. Caswell, HEFA executive director. "We were honored to be able to help this legendary Massachusetts institution through the financing process that will ultimately make it a stronger organization for years to come."

As detailed in today's Boston Globe, the $118 million project includes a new building, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano, to be located behind the existing historic museum building. The new building will increase the Museum's capacity to preserve and protect the historic museum and collection and to enrich its legacy of vibrant programming across the arts, including construction of a new greenhouse to build on the Gardner's horticultural legacy.

The project will remove visitor services functions, including admissions, a coat check, and café, from the museum building, which first opened in 1903, reducing overall wear and tear on the historic museum palace and collection.

The fixed rate bonds were sold through a public offering and underwritten by Barclays Capital which closed in November 2009. This is a first-time stand-alone bond issue for the Gardner. The project is slated for completion in late 2011.

"HEFA's assistance, from planning to pricing, was invaluable in helping the Museum stay on schedule and enabling us to access the tax-exempt bond market at such favorable rates," Noah Schneiderman, Chief Financial Officer for the Gardner Museum said when the bond issue closed in November.

The project has a major emphasis on sustainability. With excavation work already underway, the project includes the drilling of geothermal wells that will provide a more energy efficient way of heating and cooling the new and existing buildings. The completed project is expected to earn LEED certification, and the Gardner will eventually realize a 28 percent reduction in energy use compared to a standard building, according to the Museum's website.

In addition to its work with the Gardner Museum, HEFA also issued $185 million in tax-exempt bonds for a project at the Museum of Fine Arts in December 2007.

About the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Founded more than a century ago, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is modeled after a 15th-century Venetian palazzo and houses more than 5,000 art objects including works by Botticelli, Titian, Raphael, Rembrandt, Degas and Sargent. Programming includes America's oldest concert series, lectures, an Artist-in-Residence program and school and community partnerships. For more information, please visit www.gardnermuseum.org.

About HEFA
HEFA is a quasi-public authority that provides tax-exempt financing to nonprofit organizations in the fields of health care, higher education, culture and science, and human service agencies for people with disabilities. Authorized by the Legislature, HEFA is fully self-funded and receives no taxpayer dollars. For more information, please visit www.mhefa.org.

Boston, January 20, 2010. PowerOptions, Inc., an energy buying consortium for non-profit organizations throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, announced today a demand response program called "PeakResponse." PowerOptions is partnering with Comverge, Inc. (Nasdaq: COMV), a clean energy company specializing in helping customers and utilities manage their electricity consumption and lessen strain on the grid through control technology and other energy management solutions. Under the PeakResponse program, PowerOptions members would receive payments for reducing their electric usage during certain times of the day when there are constraints on the grid or high prices in the market.

"We are very excited about making this program available to our members," said Cynthia Arcate, President and CEO of PowerOptions. "While these types of programs have been available in the region for several years, many of our members have not taken advantage of them because of the time and effort needed to find the right supplier and negotiate the terms of the arrangement. As PowerOptions has done for energy purchasing, we've used our buying power to secure an excellent program for our members, The PeakResponse program gives all customers, regardless of size, the opportunity to participate in these region-wide demand response initiatives."

The PowerOptions agreement with Comverge calls for Comverge to enroll a minimum of 35 megawatts of load reduction within the first 3 years of the 5-year contract. At that level, members would have earned about $5 million over the term of the contract.

"This is money our members can put to other uses in their facilities without making major adjustments in their operations," said Arcate.

According to PowerOptions, the contract with Comverge will also provide members with access to energy billing software that will enable members to monitor and manage their energy usage, providing greater opportunity for savings and measuring the effects of conservation.

"We applaud PowerOptions for developing this program for its members," said Deirdre Manning, Director of Sustainability and Energy Management at Boston College. "Demand response is an important component to any institution's greenhouse gas reduction efforts and has the added bonus of providing revenue rather than costs while reducing consumption."

"PowerOptions' PeakResponse program promotes transparency and accessibility, the most important components in our Smart Grid and energy efficiency efforts," said George Hunt, Comverge Senior Vice President, Commercial & Industrial Sales. "Through this alliance, Comverge will be able to make demand response and efficiency programs more accessible to all PowerOptions members, helping them manage their energy costs and putting those savings back into their businesses."

The award-winning PowerOptions® program was formed by HEFA, the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority, in 1996 and operates as a stand-alone nonprofit organization. It is among the largest electricity and natural gas purchasing consortiums in Massachusetts, with $220 million of annual energy purchases and a combined demand of approximately 200 megawatts of electricity and 31.6 million decatherms of expected natural gas usage (for the contract term ending October 2011). Any nonprofit or public institution in Massachusetts may become a member and participate in this collective purchasing effort. For more information, visit www.poweroptions.org.

New Mass General Oncology, ER space slated

BOSTON - Partners HealthCare today completed a nearly $500 million tax-exempt bond issue through HEFA, the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority, to refinance $245 million of Partners' existing debt and to finance important projects across the health system.

"Tax-exempt financing through HEFA provides us with the lowest possible cost of capital, allowing us to gain more value from each dollar we spend," said Debra Sloan, Partners HealthCare Assistant Deputy Treasurer. "This in turn allows us to provide the highest level of care to our patients, with the most up-to-date equipment and facilities."

Projects financed with bond proceeds include the construction of a 500,000 square foot building at the Massachusetts General Hospital's main campus in Boston that will house a relocated and expanded radiation oncology department, expanded emergency services, three levels of operating and procedure suites, and 150 neurosciences and medical oncology ICU and acute patient rooms, among other projects.

"At HEFA, we work behind the scenes to assist nonprofit organizations to cost-effectively finance and refinance important projects that benefit communities across Massachusetts," said Benson T. Caswell, HEFA Executive Director. "These projects will not only mean greater access to care for patients, but also increased employment and economic growth for the Commonwealth."

Partners HealthCare is an integrated health system founded by Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital. In addition to its two academic medical centers, the Partners system includes community and specialty hospitals, community health centers, a physician network, home health and long-term care services, and other health-related entities.

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human service facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program.

BOSTON - Fourteen community health centers throughout the state will be able to move forward on critical improvements to infrastructure, medical equipment and patient safety enhancement with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," said HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

"I want to thank the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA) for their generous donation to the North End Community Health Center," said State Senator Anthony Petruccelli (D-Boston). "The North End Community Health Center provides quality, accessible and affordable healthcare to our neighborhood residents and HEFA's recognition of it is especially appreciated during these challenging economic times."

"The lack of primary care internists on Cape Cod makes it extremely difficult for newly insured residents to find a doctor. Community Health Center of Cape Cod fills that gap for a growing number of people and does it well," said State Representative Matthew C. Patrick (D-Falmouth). "This grant will help them in this endeavor."

Leaders of health centers funded through the program said the awards will benefit critical programs and underserved populations.

"Over the last five years, we have seen a dramatic increase in the demand for services," said Frances M. Anthes, President and CEO of Family Health Center of Worcester. "The award from HEFA is a vital component to funding the critical infrastructure improvements needed to meet that demand."

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human service facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

New Dental Equipment Among Projects Funded Statewide

BOSTON - The Fenway Community Health Center will be able to new dental equipment with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $25,000 to the Fenway Community Health Center, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

The mission of Fenway Health is to enhance the physical and mental health of its community, which includes those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT), the people who live and work in our neighborhood, and beyond. Fenway provides high quality, comprehensive health care in a welcoming environment and seeks to improve the overall health of the larger community, locally and nationally, through education and training, policy and advocacy, and research and evaluation.

"The awarding of grant dollars to Fenway Community Health in this competitive process is a testament to the amazing work that the Center's doctors and staff do every day," said State Senator Steven A. Tolman (D-Brighton). "Since its founding in 1971, Fenway Community Health has remained committed to its core mission of providing high quality healthcare to all people from all walks of life even as it has emerged as a world leader in LGBT specific healthcare. Its commitment to the neighborhood and to those who seek treatment at its facility is legendary. I am grateful to HEFA for recognizing Fenway Community Health in these difficult economic times for its long commitment to quality care."

"The Fenway Community Health Center is a keystone of both our neighborhood and of our city. We are indebted to HEFA for providing our community with this generous donation," said State Representative Byron Rushing (D-Boston). "With these funds, we will now be able to move forward with important improvements that will greatly enhance our local health center and the care they give to the people who live in and around The Fenway. I am so proud of the consistent good work of the Center's staff and board."

"Our family dental program has been growing rapidly, necessitating the need to hire an additional dental hygienist," said Dr. Stephen Boswell, President and CEO of Fenway Community Health Center. "HEFA's award will allow us to purchase equipment for that new hygienist and allow us to accommodate an additional 340 patient visits per year."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Grants Are Among 14 Centers Across Commonwealth To Receive Support

BOSTON - The Bowdoin Street Health Center and Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester will, respectively, be able to purchase a new ultrasound machine and replace a 30-year-old retinal eye camera with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $25,000 to the Upham's Corner Health Center and $20,000 to the Bowdoin Street Health Center, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

"I want to thank the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA) for their generous donations to two health centers in my district, the Bowdoin Street Heath Center and the Upham's Corner Health Center," said State Senator Jack Hart (D-South Boston). "Both health centers provide quality, accessible and affordable healthcare to our neighborhood residents. HEFA's recognition of Bowdoin and Upham's Corner is especially significant during this tough economic time."

"HEFA has provided the Bowdoin Street Health Center with an invaluable donation," said State Representative Martin J. Walsh (D-Dorchester)."With this donation, we will be able to invest in significant technologies that will improve the level of care the center is able deliver to a number of patients in the area."

"The delivery of quality specialty care, like retinal screening, is a critical component of providing accessible comprehensive healthcare to vulnerable communities," said State Representative Marie St. Fleur (D-Dorchester). "This grant leverages Upham's Corner's capacity to provide that access. Congratulations Upham's Corner Healthcare Center."

The Upham's Corner Health Center is committed to provide high quality, low cost, culturally sensitive, community-based health and social services to the residents of Dorchester. Its goal is to provide comprehensive health and social services of the highest quality that are affordable, physically and culturally accessible, delivered in a dignified manner, and have a positive effect upon the client's well - being.

"People living in North Dorchester are six times more likely to suffer from diabetes than those in other Boston neighborhoods, and without careful monitoring of their eyes, patients with diabetes can lose their sight," said Edward F. Grimes, Executive Director of Upham's Corner Health Center. "This grant from HEFA allows us to replace our 30 year old retinal camera, to provide the highest quality of care to our patients. We are grateful to HEFA for the award."

Licensed and operated by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Bowdoin Street Health Center has been an integral part of the Dorchester community since 1973. Multilingual, multi-ethnic services at the Center include pediatric and adult preventive and primary care, family practice, geriatrics, OB/GYN, physical therapy, optometry, mental health counseling, nutrition services and community health programs.

"Our pregnant patients must go to the hospital to receive ultrasound treatments, which can lead to missed appointments because of problems with transportation and interpreter issues," said Adela Margules, Executive Director of Bowdoin Street Health Center. "The HEFA-funded ultrasound machine will help us to provide more comprehensive care for these patients which will lead to healthier births. We are grateful for the award."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

New Electronic Medical Record Support Among Projects Funded Statewide

BOSTON - The Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center will be able to update its computer system to support the growing use of more economical electronic medical records with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $24,386 to the Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center (GRMDC) is a nonprofit community health center serving residents predominantly from Roslindale, Hyde Park, and West Roxbury, although anyone is welcome. The Center opened in 1975 by concerned community residents who believed there were many unmet health needs.

"The computers and printers purchased 7 years ago for the implementation of our electronic medical records system are now outdated and cannot handle current and future applications of the system," said Barbara Lottero, Executive Director of Greater Roslindale Medical and Dental Center. "The award from HEFA will purchase new PCs and other equipment that will allow the center to meet increased patient volumes while maintaining a high quality of care. We are so appreciative of HEFA for their grant program."

"HEFA's grant to Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center will benefit the district by helping low-income and uninsured individuals seeking health care at the center," said State Representative Jeffrey Sanchez (D-Boston). "The updated electronic medical records system will ensure patient safety by preventing avoidable medical errors and facilitating continuity of care. The grant was well deserved and will improve quality of care. It will enable the center to continue providing primary health care services to area residents that need it most."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Springfield Renovations Among 14 Projects Funded Statewide

BOSTON - The Caring Health Center in Springfield will be able to remove asbestos and begin interior demolition in preparation for a new facility with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $25,000 to the Caring Health Center, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

"In these difficult economic times, the services that Caring Health Center provides are needed more than ever," said State Senator Stephen J. Buoniconti (D-West Springfield). "I am very pleased that HEFA has chosen to help fund these necessary capital improvements which will increase access to high quality care for many of Springfield's most vulnerable residents."

"I am pleased that the Caring Health Center has been selected to receive a HEFA grant. The Center provides invaluable services to our community, especially at a time when families and individuals alike are struggling financially," stated Representative Cheryl Coakley-Rivera (D-Springfield). "Without community-based organizations in Springfield such as the Caring Health Center, many of our residents would never get the care they need and, most of all, deserve."

Caring Health Center was created by the community, for the community to provide the highest level of health care to the underserved and to those challenged by income, language, and cultural barriers. It strives to provide services in a manner sensitive to a patient's cultural and linguistic character with respect for their personal dignity and self-worth.

"We recently acquired a 19th century building in the South End of Springfield, and the facility requires complete gut rehabilitation," said Anne S. Awad, Executive Director of Caring Health Center. "HEFA's award will help fund asbestos removal and interior demolition, so that we may move forward with transforming this historic structure to create a 21st Century health center."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Leaking Window Replacement Among 14 Projects Funded Statewide

BOSTON - The North End Community Health Center will be able to replace faulty and leaking windows with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $24,100 to the North End Community Health Center, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

"I want to thank the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA) for their generous donation to the North End Community Health Center," said State Senator Anthony Petruccelli (D-Boston). "The North End Community Health Center provides quality, accessible and affordable healthcare to our neighborhood residents and HEFA's recognition of it is especially appreciated during these challenging economic times."

"The North End Health Center is a crucial part of the neighborhood," said State Representative Aaron Michlewitz (D-North End). "Countless people depend on the Health Center for medical needs and with these new funds they will be able to improve conditions within the facility and hopefully help more people within the community."

The North End Community Health Center offers comprehensive primary care for children, adolescents, adults and seniors from a convenient location right in Boston's North End. Should the need arise, patients have full access to all of the services at Massachusetts General Hospital and the MassGeneral Hospital for Children.

"The current windows are more than 30 years old and leak constantly during rain storms, causing flooding and damage to the health center," said James Luisi, CEO of North End Community Health Center. "HEFA's award will replace those old windows and allow us to use funds for patient care that would have otherwise gone toward carpet replacement and other repairs. A previous HEFA grant helped us to replace our old leaky roof, so we are grateful to HEFA for helping us stay ship shape and ready to serve our patients."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Turners Falls Center Expanding Dental Clinic, Creating New Patient Support Services Space

BOSTON - The Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turners Falls will be able to expand its dental clinic and create additional clinical and patient support services space with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $23,800 to the Community Health Center of Franklin County, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

"It's good to see this kind of investment being made to expand such an important service," State Senator Stan Rosenberg (D-Amherst) said. "I'm sure this program will help improve the quality of life for a great many people in western Mass."

"I congratulate the Community Health Center of Franklin County on receiving this grant to improve its dental services. We are fortunate to have this important healthcare resource serving our rural area, and I thank HEFA for recognizing the health center's importance to our community," said State Representative Stephen Kulik (D- Worthington).

The stated mission of the Community Health Center of Franklin County is to maintain a community owned, responsive health center which promotes public health and well-being, and provides comprehensive preventive and primary care services to all who need or desire such services, without regard to income, insurance status, ability to pay, or past medical history.

"We are a critical provider of dental care in the North Quabbin area, and the only area Medicaid dental provider for oral surgery, Spanish interpretation and evening hours," said Bridgette Madden, CEO of Community Health Center of Franklin County. "HEFA's grant will allow us to add two more dental exam rooms, which will increase staff and capacity to serve 1,200 more patients. We are grateful for the award."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000 to help train
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Workplace, Waiting Room Improvements Among Projects Funded Statewide

BOSTON - The Family Health Center of Worcester will be able to purchase waiting room chairs for patients and create modular work stations with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $25,000 to the Family Health Center of Worcester, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

"The work done by the Family Health Center and local health centers like it is among the most important and underappreciated in our communities," said State Senator Harriette L. Chandler (D-Worcester). "This money will go a long way to helping the Family Health Center perform their mission in an appropriate, dignified setting."

"Our health care system relies on community providers and this money will help us reach our goal on providing quality and affordable health care for all," said State Representative Vincent A. Pedone (D-Worcester).

The mission of the Family Health Center of Worcester, Inc. is to improve the health and well-being of underserved and culturally diverse Worcester area residents through the provision of high quality, comprehensive, and continuous primary health care, dental, behavioral health and social services.

"Over the last five years, we have seen a dramatic increase in the demand for services," said Frances M. Anthes, President and CEO of Family Health Center of Worcester. "The award from HEFA is a vital component to funding the critical infrastructure improvements needed to meet that demand."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Renovation at Pine Street Inn Part of Grants To 14 Centers Statewide

BOSTON - The Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program will be able to renovate and reconfigure portions of The Pine Street Inn in Boston with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $21,450 to the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

"In these challenging economic times, the services that the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program and The Pine Street Inn provide are more important than ever," said State Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz (D-Jamaica Plain). "I am pleased HEFA is funding these necessary improvements, which will undoubtedly help some of Boston's neediest residents."

"With the HEFA grants I believe that the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program will be able to have a greater impact on the quality of life for the hundreds of people who come into the Pine Street Inn every day," said State Representative Aaron Michlewitz (D-North End). "With a renovated facility Pine Street will be able to have a larger and more lasting effect on those who depend on them for basic healthcare needs."

BHCHP is the face of health care for Boston's homeless individuals and families. Last year alone, BHCHP delivered services to more than 11,000 homeless men, women, and children. Over the last 24 years, BHCHP has evolved into the largest and most comprehensive health care for the homeless program in the country.

"Storing medications is nearly impossible for homeless patients who have no safe place to keep them refrigerated or protected from being lost or stolen," said Robert L. Taube, Executive Director of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program. "The award from HEFA will allow us to ultimately reduce risk of lost medication or missed doses and allow staff to spend more time directly caring for patients."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Renovations in Lawrence Among Projects Funded Statewide

BOSTON - The Greater Lawrence Family Health Center (GLFHC) will be able to renovate the registration and patient waiting areas of its center to accommodate increased patient flow with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $25,000 to the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

"I have visited the GLFHC on many occasions, and have consistently seen the very high volume of patients it serves," said State Senator Susan Tucker (D-Andover). "This renovation will not only make the reception area more pleasant, but it will also improve efficiencies."

"At a time when state funding for nonprofit agencies has been cut to the bone, these grants will help fill critical needs," said State Representative William Lantigua (D-Lawrence). "On behalf of the people of Lawrence, I would like to thank HEFA for extending a lifeline to community health centers in our city and across the Commonwealth."

GLFHC makes a difference by offering preventative care, health education, integrated clinical and social services, and affordable quality medical care. Its programs are designed to address the needs in our community and eliminate existing health disparities

"Operating out of a facility meant to handle 15,000 visits per year, the clinic has been physically strained to serve more than 32,000 each year," said Robert J. Ingala, CEO of Greater Lawrence Family Health Center. "As we near construction of a new wing to add 15 exam rooms, HEFA's funding for an expanded registration area will allow us to accommodate all of our patients effectively, providing the highest quality of care for the families that rely on us."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Brockton Renovations Are Among 14 Projects Statewide

BOSTON - The Brockton Neighborhood Health Center will be able to relocate and expand its laboratory drawing station with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $25,000 to the Brockton Neighborhood Health Center, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

"HEFA has provided the Brockton Neighborhood Health Center with an invaluable donation," said State Senator Thomas P. Kennedy (D-Brockton). "With this donation, we will be able to invest in significant technologies and instrumentations that will improve the level of care the health center is able deliver to a number of patients."

"I would like to thank HEFA for providing the Brockton Neighborhood Health Center with this invaluable grant," said State Representative Michael D. Brady (D-Brockton)."Since its inception, the Brockton Neighborhood Health Center has provided quality health care and employment to residents in the Brockton area. With this donation, we will be able to significantly improve the level of care the center is able deliver to a number of patients."

Brockton Neighborhood Health Center is a multicultural organization that collaborates with community agencies and residents to provide high quality comprehensive health care that is responsive to community health needs and is linguistically, culturally and financially accessible.

"Due to serious overcrowding issues from skyrocketing patient demand, we need to move the specimen drawing laboratory and reconfigure the space," said Sue Joss, Executive Director of Brockton Neighborhood Health Center. "HEFA's award will allow us to continue to serve the growing number of patients in our community."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Improvements Are Among Grants To 14 Centers Statewide

BOSTON - The Hilltown Community Health Center will be able to purchase new software to help better manage its dental practice and execute training for electronic medical records with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $23,000 to the Hilltown Community Health Center in Worthington, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

"Hilltown Community Health Center has been a cornerstone of our region for more than 50 years and we are indebted to HEFA for providing this generous allocation," said State Senator Benjamin B. Downing (D-Pittsfield). "The center will use these funds to move several important projects forward, greatly enhancing its ability to treat the people who utilize its services."

"I congratulate the Hilltown Community Health Center on receiving this grant to improve its dental services. We are fortunate to have this important healthcare resource serving our rural area, and I thank HEFA for recognizing the health centers' importance to our community," said State Representative Stephen Kulik (D- Worthington).

Hilltown Community Health Center, Inc. is a non-profit, federally qualified health center providing high quality medical, dental and behavioral health services to the rural hilltown communities of Western Massachusetts since 1950. Hilltown Community Health Center prides itself on being a place where personalized health care is available to families, neighbors and friends, regardless of their ability to pay.

"Serving residents of the rural hilltown areas of western Massachusetts, we strive to provide a quality of service as good as, or even better than, urban medical facilities," said Edward J. Sayer, Executive Director of Hilltown Community Health Center. "This award from HEFA helps us to continue to meet that high level of service, greatly benefiting the patients we care for."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Safety and Security Equipment Purchase Is Among Projects Statewide

BOSTON - The Community Health Center of Cape Cod will be able to make significant safety and security equipment purchases with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $25,000 to the Community Health Center of Cape Cod, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

"Access to healthcare services is something that every community on the Cape struggles with," said State Senator Robert O'Leary (D-Barnstable). "This money for the Community Health Center of Cape Cod will directly benefit the care my constituents receive and I applaud the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority in its decision to award it."

"The lack of primary care internists on Cape Cod makes it extremely difficult for newly insured residents to find a doctor. Community Health Center of Cape Cod fills that gap for a growing number of people and does it well," said State Representative Matthew C. Patrick (D-Falmouth). "This grant will help them in this endeavor."

The Community Health Center of Cape Cod was opened in 1998 by a group of volunteer physicians, nurses, counselors, and lay people who came together to provide free health services to uninsured residents of Cape Cod and the Islands. Today, it is a non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center that provides access to health care for adults and children with MassHealth, Medicare, the new Commonwealth Care, private insurance, or no insurance at all.

"The health center has experienced a number of security incidents and acts of vandalism in the past year, and it is essential that we implement additional safety and security enhancements, especially as we expand our hours of operation into the evening to respond to increasing patient demand," said Karen L. Gardner, CEO of Community Health Center of Cape Cod. "HEFA's award will fund interior and exterior cameras and lighting, as well as a card access system, helping to make the health center safer for patients and staff."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

New Exterior Doors to Meet Fire Safety Codes and ADA Standards

BOSTON - Outer Cape Health Services, which operates health centers in Provincetown and Wellfleet, will be able to install new exterior doors to meet fire safety codes and access standards for the disabled with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

Among the awards is $25,000 for Outer Cape Health Services, HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell said.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," Caswell said. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

"Providing safe, accessible health care services to people on Cape Cod is becoming more challenging in these trying fiscal times," said Senator Robert O'Leary (D-Barnstable). "The grant assistance from Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority will help the Outer Cape Health Services better serve our disabled population on the Outer Cape and enhance their ability to provide services to all Outer Cape residents."

"Outer Cape Health Services is a cornerstone of our community and we are indebted to HEFA for providing our community with this generous donation," said State Representative Sarah Peake (D-Provincetown). "With these funds, we will now be able to move forward with important improvements that will enhance the care given to the people who live on the Outer Cape."

Outer Cape's Provincetown and Wellfleet health centers offer comprehensive services including primary care, family practice, internal medicine, pediatrics, senior care, women's services, teen clinic, HIV-related services, family planning, minor surgery, nutritional counseling, laboratory and x-ray. In addition, Outer Cape Health provides extensive outreach and support services through the WIC (Women, Infants, Children) nutrition program and through Healthy Connections, which helps uninsured people with publicly funded health insurance and social services programs.

"Operating out of two seriously antiquated sites, wheel-chair bound patients and those pushing or carrying a baby are not able to open our door without assistance," said Sally Deane, Acting CEO of Outer Cape Health Services. "HEFA's award will fund the replacement of all exterior doors, allowing us to meet fire and safety codes and facilitate use by people with disabilities. We are grateful to HEFA for their support."

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Cape, Springfield, Berkshires, Brockton, Lawrence, Boston Centers Benefit

BOSTON - Fourteen community health centers throughout the state will be able to move forward on critical improvements to infrastructure, medical equipment and patient safety enhancement with new assistance from the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA).

Fulfilling its mandate to enhance the quality of life of the residents in the Commonwealth by enabling nonprofit institutions to reduce their cost of capital, HEFA today announced that it will provide grants to 14 local health centers totaling $336,736 as part of its Community Health Center Grant Program.

From the Berkshires to Brockton, in Worcester, Lawrence and Springfield, deserving health centers will be able to make significant improvements and improve their services to those who most need it.

HEFA's Program awards money to worthy nonprofit health centers whose mission is to provide critical health care services to low-income and uninsured individuals. Since the program's inception in 2006, HEFA has awarded more than $1.5 million to community health centers around Massachusetts.

"Local health centers are critical to our communities because they provide care to those who are most in need. Unfortunately in the midst of this economic crisis, many nonprofit health centers have had to put important projects and improvements on hold," said HEFA Executive Director Benson T. Caswell. "We are thrilled to be able to help these deserving health organizations whose daily mission is to deliver high quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of their ability to pay."

Many Massachusetts health centers recently received large federal stimulus awards, sharing more than $80 million. To ensure the largest impact from its program, HEFA made awards to health centers that did not receive stimulus funds, which include:

• Bowdoin Street Health Center in Boston, $20,000
• Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program in Boston, $21,450
• Hilltown Community Health Centers, Inc. in Worthington, $23,000
• Community Health Center of Franklin County in Turner Falls, $23,800
• North End Community Health Center in Boston, $24,100
• Greater Roslindale Medical & Dental Center in Roslindale, $24,386
• Brockton Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton, $25,000
• Caring Health Center in Springfield $25,000
• Community Health Center of Cape Cod in Mashpee, $25,000
• Family Health Center of Worcester in Worcester, $25,000
• Fenway Community Health Center in Boston, $25,000
• Greater Lawrence Family Health Center in Lawrence, $25,000
• Outer Cape Health Services in Eastham, $25,000
• Upham's Corner Health Center in Dorchester, $25,000

"I want to thank the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority (HEFA) for their generous donation to the North End Community Health Center," said State Senator Anthony Petruccelli (D-Boston). "The North End Community Health Center provides quality, accessible and affordable healthcare to our neighborhood residents and HEFA's recognition of it is especially appreciated during these challenging economic times."

"The lack of primary care internists on Cape Cod makes it extremely difficult for newly insured residents to find a doctor. Community Health Center of Cape Cod fills that gap for a growing number of people and does it well," said State Representative Matthew C. Patrick (D-Falmouth). "This grant will help them in this endeavor."

Leaders of health centers funded through the program said the awards will benefit critical programs and underserved populations.

"Over the last five years, we have seen a dramatic increase in the demand for services," said Frances M. Anthes, President and CEO of Family Health Center of Worcester. "The award from HEFA is a vital component to funding the critical infrastructure improvements needed to meet that demand."

HEFA supports Massachusetts' nonprofit health care organizations by financing equipment, construction, renovations, and refinancing debt. Last year, HEFA financed 49 projects for hospitals and other nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $3 billion.

HEFA is fully self-funded, receiving no tax-payer dollars. HEFA also provides funding for higher education and cultural institutions, research and human services facilities, as well as energy procurement services available to all nonprofit and state and municipal facilities through its PowerOptions® Program. For more information, visit www.mhefa.org.

Boston, Tuesday, Nov. 17 - The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum today closed a $35 million tax-exempt bond issue through HEFA, the Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities Authority, to help fund a major expansion and restoration project that will take the Museum and its world-renowned exhibits decades into the future.

The project includes a new building, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano, to be located behind the existing historic museum building. The new building will increase the Museum's capacity to preserve and protect the historic museum and collection and to enrich its legacy of vibrant programming across the arts, including construction of a new greenhouse to build on the Gardner's horticultural legacy. The project will remove visitor services functions, including admissions, a coat check, and café, from the museum building, which first opened in 1903, reducing overall wear and tear on the historic museum palace and collection.

The fixed rate bonds were sold through a public offering and underwritten by Barclays Capital. The Museum will unveil the project's design in early 2010 and launch the public phase of its campaign, with a goal of approximately $180 million, including endowment; the Museum has already raised $100 million in pledges and gifts.

"Thanks to the Gardner's excellent reviews by rating agencies, the bonds were sold as a general obligation of the Museum without the need for credit enhancement," said Benson T. Caswell, HEFA executive director. "We were pleased to assist this legendary institution through the financing process that will ultimately make the Gardner a stronger organization for years to come."

This is a first-time stand-alone bond issue for the Gardner. The project is slated for completion in late 2011.

"HEFA's assistance, from planning to pricing, was invaluable in helping the Museum stay on schedule and enabling us to access the tax-exempt bond market at such favorable rates," added Noah Schneiderman, Chief Financial Officer for the Gardner.

The project has a major emphasis on sustainability. With excavation work already underway, the project includes the drilling of geothermal wells that will provide a more energy efficient way of heating and cooling the new and existing buildings. The completed project is expected to earn LEED certification, and the Gardner will eventually realize a 28 percent reduction in energy use compared to a standard building, according to the Museum's website.

"This project will position the Gardner Museum to more deeply engage visitors in the world of art and ideas as Isabella Gardner intended and to provide new, increasingly transparent ways to interact with the staff and the working life of the museum by viewing the gardeners tending to the greenhouse, classrooms where children are learning, rehearsals for concerts, and other spaces of work," said Anne Hawley, the Norma Jean Calderwood Director of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

HEFA also issued $185 million in tax-exempt bonds for a project at the Museum of Fine Arts in December 2007.

About the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Founded more than a century ago, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is modeled after a 15th-century Venetian palazzo and houses more than 5,000 art objects including works by Botticelli, Titian, Raphael, Rembrandt, Degas and Sargent. Programming includes America's oldest concert series, lectures, an Artist-in-Residence program and school and community partnerships. For more information, please visit www.gardnermuseum.org.

About HEFA
HEFA is a quasi-public authority that provides tax-exempt financing to nonprofit organizations in the fields of health care, higher education, culture and science, and human service agencies for people with disabilities. Authorized by the Legislature, HEFA is fully self-funded and receives no taxpayer dollars. For more information, please visit www.mhefa.org.