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What is SPARK?
The SPARK Center, the only program of its kind
in New England, is a medically-therapeutic childcare
facility and day program. Located in Mattapan,
SPARK is a vital part of Boston’s urban community,
currently assisting more than 100 children annually.
Who are the Children?
SPARK serves children and families whose lives are affected by:
- complex medical needs (e.g. HIV/AIDS, neurological problems, and failure to thrive)
- emotional and behavioral challenges related to trauma (e.g. child abuse, domestic violence and caregiver loss and separation)
- developmental delays and special educational needs
  
Our Multidisciplinary Team
Our committed and diverse professional staff
sets the standard in medically-specialized and
psychotherapeutic treatment for fragile children. The team is comprised of educators, nurses,
psychologists, social workers, interns, volunteers,
senior administrators, a chef, and specially
trained van drivers. Consulting specialists include
pediatricians, a neuropsychologist, music therapists,
a puppet therapist, and physical, occupational
and speech therapists.
Specialized Services
SPARK is a hospital-sponsored pediatric program
designed to provide specialized services in the
context of traditional classroom environments.
Children from all ages in the daycare, after school,
teen and summer programs benefit from an
integrated model of care, including:
- Medical Supports: daily medication
administration, specialty therapies, medication
adherence counseling, HIV prevention
education, nutrition and fitness instruction.
- Mental Health Interventions: individual
psychotherapy, family counseling, support
groups, music and art therapy, social skills
building, crisis intervention, psychiatric liaison.
- Educational Services: neurodevelopmental
and academic assessments, school planning
and advocacy, early literacy programs, cultural
enrichment, homework tutoring, academic
and job skills development
Children at SPARK are nurtured throughout their
formative years and are encouraged to develop into
resilient teenagers, ready for adulthood. The SPARK
Center imparts excellence in specialized services by
upholding BMC’s mission to provide exceptional
care without exception.
For more information, contact:
Barbara Farrell, Program Coordinator
The SPARK Center
255 River Street
Mattapan, MA 02126
Phone 617.534.2050, option 8
Fax 617. 534.2057
Email: SPARK@bmc.org
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