October 29, 2010

Forsyth Institute

I recently spent some time with officials from the Forsyth Institute at their new location in Cambridge, which includes laboratories and a research clinic. The Forsyth Institute is a leading dental health and research facility. It was founded as a free dental clinic for Boston children who did not have regular access to dental services. Since its founding, the Forsyth Institute has expanded its efforts to include studying the impact that poor dental health can have on a person’s overall health, such as its impact on diabetes or cardiovascular disease. The Institute remains committed to its founding mission with ForsythKids, which provides free dental care to children in their schools. Children with difficulty accessing dental services receive check-ups, toothbrushes, toothpaste and education about why dental health is so important to overall health. During my time there this week, staff spoke with me about current research efforts, including three gum disease projects they are currently researching.

Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology

I was pleased this week to join students and staff at the Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology to announce the opening of three new labs funded in part with federal grant money. The Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology is a two-year, private college that offers technical education along with a core curriculum. Students can learn about automotive and computer technology, gain electrical and mechanical skills and experience in other fields such as medical electronics and architecture. Funds were used for three labs to serve the Electrical Technology Department. One is an innovative renewable energy lab and another will give students practical experience with wiring, cabling and piping. I have been familiar with the work of this institution for many years and I really enjoyed my time there this week, meeting students and examining the state-of-the-art technologies that will help them learn valuable new skills that will help prepare them for the workforce.

Central Boston Elder Services

I also joined officials from Central Boston Elder Services to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Dudley Square Elderly Housing Development in Roxbury. The facility will offer affordable elderly housing and provide seniors with access to additional services such as wellness programming and meals on wheels. This project is an important component of the continued revitalization of the Dudley Square neighborhood, creating jobs and providing additional quality housing for our seniors.