The Joint Coalition on Health of North Central Massachusetts (representing more than 40 area health and social service agencies and individuals) conducted a community health assessment that identified mental health and substance abuse issues as needing more attention throughout northern Worcester County.  As a result, The Winchendon Project was developed.
 
Supported by a generous grant from The Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts, the project has been working with Winchendon Public Schools since January 2008 to enhance students' quality of life and support their academic achievement. To date, Health and Wellness Programs have been expanded at Murdock Middle High School (MMHS) to address the emotional, social and physical health of students.  
 
Counseling services are now available to students and their families. These services are offered at MMHS in partnership with the Murdock Health Center, a school-based health center operated by Gardner's Heywood Hospital.  A Learning Supports Facilitator has also been added to the school's staff. Her role is to proactively develop programs and resources for students and their families to prevent and address risk behaviors and support academic success. 
 
To identify the specific health and wellness needs of the MMHS community and to plan for future phases of The Winchendon Project, students, parents and school staff are being surveyed. Survey outcomes will determine which additional programs and resources will be developed within the school and community.  Results will also help shape strategies to integrate and coordinate physical and emotional health care for youth in Winchendon.