Gandara opens new Springfield clinic that will expand access to mental health services

SPRINGFIELD — In 1977, Mercy Medical Center offered a small unused office to open a mental health and substance abuse program designed to help a wave of Hispanic migrants who needed help from those who understood their own language and culture.

Gandara Center was born and then expanded and expanded again. Now, 48 years later, it has grown again to open a full-service clinic off St. George Street in the North End, within walking distance of many of its clients.