December 10, 2021
Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I hope this finds you all healthy and safe and in good cheer. Below you will find public health updates regarding COVID-19 booster shots for 16- and 17-year olds. I hope this newsletter serves as a gentle reminder for all of us to continue good public health practices and hygiene as we celebrate the holidays. We will continue to keep you apprised of available resources and trusted sources of information regarding the public health crisis. Please let us know if we can be of assistance.

Very truly yours, Joan
SPECIAL COVID-19 UPDATE
Massachusetts Public Heath Officials Encourage Residents ages 16 and 17 to get Pfizer COVID-19 Boosters
Following newly updated recommendations and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today that all adolescents ages 16 and 17 are eligible to get a Pfizer COVID booster shot at least 6 months after an initial Pfizer vaccination series.

Adolescents ages 16 and 17 are able to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 booster from more than 500 locations in Massachusetts.
Getting a Booster
If you or your child are eligible, here are the steps to find a convenient location to get a COVID-19 booster:

  1. Visit the VaxFinder tool at vaxfinder.mass.gov for a full list of locations. Residents are able to narrow results to search for locations that are offering boosters, with appointments available now for booking. Many locations are booking appointments out weeks in advance.
  2. For individuals who are unable to use VaxFinder, or have difficulty accessing the internet, the COVID-19 Vaccine Resource Line (Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday 9 AM-2 PM) is available by calling 2-1-1 and following the prompts for assistance. The COVID-19 Vaccine Resource Line is available in English and Spanish. Translators are available in nearly 100 other languages.
  3. Parents who prefer to have their adolescent vaccinated by a primary care provider should call their provider’s office directly.

Vaccines are widely available in Massachusetts. Getting vaccinated is the most important thing people can do to protect themselves, their families, and the community.

The COVID-19 vaccine can be given at the same time as the annual flu shot. Remember to ask your health care provider or pharmacist for both vaccines.

The COVID-19 booster is safe, effective, and free. People do not need an ID or health insurance to get a booster shot and do not need to show a vaccine card when getting a booster. Additional information on the COVID-19 booster, including FAQs, can be found at mass.gov/COVID19booster.
Information on the Omicron and Delta Variants
Variants, including Delta and Omicron, are spreading rapidly across the globe and continuing to fuel new outbreaks in the U.S., mainly among the unvaccinated.

For more information on the omicron variant, the delta variant, and other variants of COVID-19, visit the CDC's website here.
Important Links and Resources



  • Finding healthy foods tool




  • HandholdMA.org website for parents of school-aged children in Massachusetts concerned about their child's mental health.


  • Massachusetts residents can seek COVID-19 testing through the Stop the Spread Initiative which provides free testing in high-priority locations.

  • DESE's report on the number of positive COVID-19 cases in schools.



  • SafeLink 24/7 Crisis Hotline for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: 877-785-2020.

Stay Informed
Visit your town websites to learn the most recent information, local services, and guidance from our municipal officials.

State Resources

Federal Resources
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