Published: 10/6/2022 9:09:13 PM
EASTHAMPTON — Another city pharmacy is closed until further notice.
Citing staffing shortages, Walgreens’ Easthampton branch closed Thursday, according to signs posted on the front entrance of the 32 Union St. business. The store remains open, but the pharmacy is closed. The Deerfield, Illinois-based drug store chain did not respond to requests for comment by presstime.
In September, the CVS Pharmacy branch on Northampton Street closed following a rainstorm. Its continued closure means there are now no pharmacies open in Easthampton.
Mayor Nicole LaChapelle said the Walgreens branch has been struggling the last few months to cover the pharmacist position. Cutting back hours on Sunday helped the store briefly, but not enough, she said.
Signs on the store directed customers to other locations in Southampton and Northampton to have prescriptions filled. However, the 14 College Highway store in Southampton was also closed on Thursday. A staff member indicated that the branch’s pharmacy would reopen Friday at 9 a.m.
The Northampton location at 225R King St. is the next closest pharmacy. Those with questions about prescriptions are invited to call 413-587-2802.
“The closing is compounded by the temporary closure of the Northampton Street CVS, which is currently under repairs — leaving no option for many of our residents,” said LaChapelle.
The CVS Pharmacy in Easthampton shut down temporarily last month after sustaining roof damage. The store remains closed as repairs are carried out.
A company spokesperson recommended that customers of the Easthampton pharmacy branch have their prescriptions sent to the CVS Pharmacy at 366 King St. in Northampton.
“Our Council on Aging has seen a steady uptick in ride requests far above their capacity,” said LaChapelle. “The city is looking for resources to meet this rising need with current partners, Highland Valley, PVTA, Easthampton Neighbors, and local medical providers.”
Emily Thurlow can be reached at ethurlow@gazettenet.com.