NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The City of North Adams has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA) to support the health and wellness of local first responders through advanced, preventative medical screenings.

 

The grant will allow the City to offer comprehensive cardiac-focused health screenings to all North Adams Police and Fire personnel. The program goes beyond a standard annual physical and is designed to provide early insight into cardiovascular health risks commonly faced by Public Safety professionals.

 

Screenings will include advanced lipid and biomarker testing, along with personalized health consultations, delivered in partnership with Sigma Tactical Wellness, a nationally recognized provider specializing in first responder wellness.

 

"We know that a troubling percentage of officers die within ten years of retirement," said Mark Bailey, Chief of Police. "My priority is ensuring that our officers are healthy during their careers and well beyond them. This grant allows us to focus on early detection and long-term wellness so our officers can look forward to — and fully enjoy — their retirement."

 

Chief Brent Lefebvre, Fire Chief, echoed the importance of the program.

 

"Firefighters face elevated cardiovascular risks throughout their careers. This grant gives our members the opportunity to better understand their health and take preventative steps — at no cost to them — which ultimately strengthens our Department and the community we serve."

 

Participation in the program is voluntary, and all health information collected will remain strictly confidential.

 

"This grant reflects our commitment to supporting the people who show up for our community every day," said Meghan DeLuca, Public Safety Business Manager. "We’re grateful to MIIA for recognizing the importance of first responder wellness and helping us invest directly in our personnel."

 

Informational sessions for eligible personnel have been held over the last few weeks, with screenings to follow in early 2026.