BayCoast Bank Awards $100,000 to Support New Bedford Community Health Primary Care Expansion

Investment advances campaign to increase healthcare access for Greater New Bedford residents

NEW BEDFORD, MA (June 2026) — New Bedford Community Health (NBCH) is pleased to announce a $100,000 commitment from BayCoast Bank in support of its More Access, Better Care – Building for a Healthier Future capital campaign, an initiative focused on expanding access to primary care services throughout Greater New Bedford.

The investment will help advance NBCH's plans to transform a long-vacant former retail property into a state-of-the-art primary care center, increasing access to essential healthcare services for thousands of local residents. Once completed, the expanded facility will enable NBCH to serve approximately 3,000 additional patients annually while enhancing care coordination, improving the patient experience, and strengthening community health outcomes.

BayCoast Bank Invests in Community Health

BayCoast Bank's support reflects its longstanding commitment to strengthening the communities it serves through investments in health, wellbeing, and local infrastructure. The bank prioritizes initiatives that create meaningful, lasting impact for residents, particularly underserved populations, aligning closely with NBCH's mission to provide accessible, high-quality healthcare for all.

"We are deeply grateful to BayCoast Bank for their partnership and their investment in the health of our community," said Cheryl Bartlett, Chief Executive Officer of New Bedford Community Health. "Access to primary care is foundational to a thriving community. This gift helps ensure that more individuals and families can receive timely, high-quality care close to home. BayCoast understands what it means to be a true community partner, and we are proud to work alongside them."

Expanding Access to Primary Care in Greater New Bedford

The expansion project comes at a critical time as demand for primary care services continues to grow across the South Coast region. By increasing patient capacity and modernizing facilities, the project will play a key role in reducing barriers to healthcare, improving access to preventive services, and supporting better health outcomes for local residents.

"At BayCoast Bank, we are committed to investing in initiatives that make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people in our communities," said John McMahon, Senior Vice President, Community Engagement. "New Bedford Community Health plays a vital role in ensuring access to quality healthcare, and we are proud to support this expansion as it works to meet the growing needs of the region."

More Access, Better Care Campaign Gains Momentum

The More Access, Better Care campaign continues to gain momentum, with more than $4.8 million raised toward its $6.95 million fundraising goal. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2026, with the new facility anticipated to open in 2027.

How to Support the Campaign

To learn more about the More Access, Better Care – Building for a Healthier Future campaign or to make a gift, visit https://gnbchc.org/NBCH-Capital-Campaign or contact Rhonda Veugen at rhondaveugen@gnbchc.org.

About New Bedford Community Health

New Bedford Community Health (NBCH) is a nonprofit, multicultural community health center in downtown New Bedford, Massachusetts. NBCH provides comprehensive health care for the whole family, including primary care, urgent care, dental services, behavioral health care, and medical specialties. In addition to clinical services, NBCH offers financial wellness and community support programs.

For more than four decades, NBCH has remained committed to equitable, patient-centered, community-focused care for all residents of Southeastern Massachusetts, regardless of their ability to pay. More information

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