Women's History Month

Women’s History Month is a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture and society and has been observed annually in the month of March in the United States since 1987. This month is a dedicated month to reflect on the often-overlooked contributions of women to U.S. history. From Florence Nightingale to Mary Ellen Richmond, Mary Eliza Mahoney to Rebecca Lee Crumpler, the timeline of women’s history milestones stretches back to the founding of the United States. The 2025 theme celebrates "Women Educating and Inspiring Generations." This theme celebrates the collective strength, equality, and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership, shaping the minds and futures of all generations.

March is National Nutrition Month

National Nutrition Month^® is an annual campaign established in 1973 by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits.

If you need support accessing healthy food and paying for groceries, the Newton Social Services Division can connect you with SNAP benefits, local food pantries and additional services. Visit the City’s Food Access page for more information or call 617-796-1420 to schedule an appointment with Social Services.

Newton's Nicotine-Free Generation

On January 21st, 2025, the Newton City Council passed the prohibition of the sale of tobacco and nicotine delivery products to anyone born on or after March 1st, 2004, in the City of Newton. The ordinance went into effect on March 1st, 2025.

The ordinance will not impact anyone aged 21 and over that is currently able to buy these products legally in Newton. The Nicotine-free Generation ordinance is an important tool in reducing the harm caused by tobacco and nicotine, including smoking-related illnesses such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and cancers. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2014 found that 95% of tobacco users begin before they turn 21 and 99% begin before the age of 26. The 2022 Newton Public Schools Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance data showed that 3% of high school students were currently cigarette smokers and 8% of high school students vaped. 

For resources to get help to quit smoking/vaping click here.

Upcoming Events

Newton Civic Spotlight Event

Last month, the City of Newton held its first Newton Civic Spotlight event at City Hall. It was a youth-organized event for local middle school and high school students. The event aimed to demystify local government and share information with Newton's young people about many of the people and organizations that support our community. The panel featured a diverse group of community members, including Newton officials. Conversations focused on municipal governance, the justice system, mental health, substance use, and environmental issues. Following the event's success, the goal is to establish Newton Civic Spotlight as a recurring, youth-led initiative.

Don't Test Your Luck with Binge Drinking!

St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration of everything Irish! People dress in green and orange, parades float down city streets, and restaurants sell themed drinks and snacks. Unfortunately, this March holiday is almost synonymous with binge drinking, the most costly and lethal type of alcohol use in the US. Sadly, binge drinking often leads to poor decisions, like driving after one too many green beers.

Tips to Enjoy the Holiday Safely

If you decide to drink, make sure to:

• Have a safe ride home: Appoint a designated driver or use a ride-sharing app to get home.
• Unattended Drinks: Do not leave drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers, especially if you don't see them being made.
• Pace yourself: Avoid drinking games and shots. Stick to one standard alcoholic beverage per hour with non-alcoholic drinks in between.
• Set a limit: Have a number of drinks or spending amount decided before you go.
• Eat and stay hydrated: Having food and a steady flow of water in your system helps your body deal with alcohol better.
• Call for help: Call 911 if someone is showing signs of alcohol poisoning: confusion, vomiting, slow or irregular breathing, skin that is blue/gray/dusky, unconsciousness (cannot be woken up).

If you believe that you or someone you love is struggling with an alcohol use disorder, don’t wait to get the support and treatment needed. Click Here for local substance use resources or visit www.helplinema.gov or https://findtreatment.gov.

Smoke Alarms don't Last Forever!

Test smoke alarms monthly and if your alarms are over 10 years old, replace them now.

March is Social Work Month!

Thank you to all of the social workers out there for the important work you do every day. And a special thank you to the staff in our own Newton Human Services Division who work with all Newton residents to connect them with social service supports and community resources.