A Beloved Lifeline at Risk: Bedford Fights Back Against Adult Day Center Closure
But here’s where it gets controversial—should financial priorities outweigh community care?
By Rachel Tillapaugh
Published: October 12, 2025 | Last Updated: October 12, 2025
(Photo Credit: Rachel Tillapaugh/WSET)
Tags: Bedford, Centra Health, Adult Day Services, Facility Closure, Community Advocacy, Intellectual Disabilities, Caregiver Support
BEDFORD, VA. — The Bedford community is rallying in passionate opposition to Centra Health’s decision to shutter the Bedford Adult Day Center, a vital hub for individuals with intellectual disabilities. And this is the part most people miss—the closure isn’t just about losing a service; it’s about dismantling a lifeline for vulnerable adults and their families.
Dozens of protesters gathered Saturday, their chants of “People over profit!” echoing through the streets. The center, which shares a building with Centra’s PACE Program, is slated to close on November 14—leaving participants like Tiffany Hayden adrift. “Please don’t close our beloved center,” Hayden pleaded, her voice trembling. “I’ve been here 10 years. Where will I go for hot lunches, bingo, outings with my friends? This place is my second home.”
For caregivers like Anita Chambers, the news is nothing short of devastating. “They claim there are ‘other opportunities,’ but let’s be real—none replicate the bonds built here,” Chambers argued. “This isn’t just about activities; it’s about belonging. For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/IDD), forging trust takes years. Centra is erasing that overnight.”
The Controversy: Centra’s statement emphasizes a “seamless transition” to other providers, but critics call this corporate spin. Is it truly possible to replace a decade of community with a referral? Katrina Martin, a caregiver, put it bluntly: “We’re praying for a miracle—for Centra to listen.” Meanwhile, the health system insists the building will remain operational for PACE, fueling skepticism about the closure’s motives.
Question for Readers: Should nonprofits prioritize budgets over community impact? Or is Centra’s decision a betrayal of its mission? Sound off in the comments—we’re eager to hear both sides.
