Absolut Care has announced the closure of its facility in Westfield, New York, effective October 20, 2023. This decision will result in the loss of jobs for 93 workers, as detailed in a WARN notice posted to the New York State Department of Labor’s website last week. The facility, located at 26 Cass St., is part of a network that includes other Absolut Care locations in the state, some of which will remain operational.
The closure follows a recent agreement between management and the union representing the workers, which was reached just over a year ago. This two-year agreement involved several Absolut Care facilities, including those in Allegany, East Aurora, and Orchard Park, all of which continue to operate. Notably, the Westfield, Allegany, and East Aurora facilities underwent changes in ownership last year, raising questions about the sustainability of operations.
The company has not provided specific reasons for the closure, but the WARN notice indicates that the layoffs will significantly impact the local workforce. Workers affected by the closure are likely to seek new employment opportunities in a region that has faced economic challenges in recent years.
As the closure date approaches, the community and local officials are expressing concern over the job losses and the impact on families. The situation highlights the ongoing struggles within the healthcare sector, particularly in rural areas where facilities often rely on a limited pool of workers.
In response to the announcement, local officials have urged the state to provide support for those affected. They emphasize the importance of creating new job opportunities and ensuring that displaced workers have access to resources such as job training and placement services.
Absolut Care’s decision underscores the broader challenges facing the healthcare industry, particularly as facilities navigate financial pressures and changing ownership structures. The coming weeks will be critical for the workers affected by this closure as they adapt to the shifting employment landscape in Chautauqua County.
