GAAMHA History

In 1967 the Gardner-Athol Area Mental Health Association was born with the sole purpose of providing Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse services in the greater Gardner area.   The program was then located in the former Gardner State Hospital.   Over time, we have, in addition, evolved to being a point of information site in the greater Gardner area with respect to our programming and other related services.  

In 1987 we moved our corporate headquarters to our present location on 208 Coleman St. Ext., Gardner, MA. This 50,000+ sq. ft., multi-purpose facility serves as a programming, and also our administrative offices site.   In 1995 we changed our corporate name to GAAMHA Inc., and have greatly expanded our programs to persons with disabilities, substance abuse, school related programs.   We have also incorporated a full-service assembly and packaging company, Coleman Assembly and Packaging, and have expanded our transportation division.

GAAMHA continues to remain very active in the communities we serve to provide a high level of service whenever the need arises.

We are highly regarded by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the various cities and towns that we serve.   GAAMHA is a provider of services to the following Massachusetts agencies and businesses:

• The Department of Developmental Services
• The Department of Public Health
• The Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
• The University of Massachusetts
• The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
• Various local school special education departments
• Local hospitals
• Private insurers  
• Other agencies and businesses.

Email:   GAAMHA@Verizon.net