Dear Northern Berkshire,

The weekly e-zine offers updates about our upcoming programming, local events of interest, and area agencies and resources

IN THIS EDITION

1. Events for today through next Wednesday
2. Save the Date: Upcoming Events
3. New Resources & Agency Updates
4. Food Access & Distribution Sites
5. Additional resources and resource updates

For a more comprehensive guide to ongoing area resources, please download the nbCC's Community Resource Guide. The guide can be found in both English and Spanish versions on our site and linked in the section below.

Do you have an event or resource you'd like to see included? Send an email to phzine@nbccoalition.org.

Want to read this email in your browser? View this as a web page.

NOTE: Remember to click on the "[Message clipped]  View entire message" link at the bottom of the page to read the entire newsletter.

nbCC's Community Resource Guide is out now in English & Spanish 2024 Edition is available for download below.

It's a FREE, comprehensive, 50-page booklet that can help you find the right community resource to help yourself or your neighbor, whether it's food access, legal services, elder services, veterans services, immigrant support services, health care, substance use, or youth programming (just to name a few).

Call us at 413-663-7588 to pick up a copy (or multiple copies), or download the PDF of the download the PDF of the , and the 2024 Spanish version here.

10 AM | Early Intervention Parent/Child Community Playgroup

Early Intervention Parent/Child Williamstown Community Playgroup, for ages birth to 3 years, Thursdays,10 AM to 11 AM, St. John’s Church, 35 Park St. Williamstown, MA, call to enroll (413) 664-9345, ext. 202.

11:30 AM | Chair Yoga | 60+ Years

Chair yoga; Thursdays at 11:30 for everyone 60 and over. 712 West Cross Road, Clarksburg. Work at your own level and pace. Donation.The class is open to everyone age 60 and over.

12 PM | Afternoon Meditation

All are welcome! Have Hope Peer Recovery Center, 37 Main St. Suite 201 (right above Berkshire Bank) in North Adams, MA. Phone number (413) 398-1371.

2:30-7PM | Drop-in Hours

Join us at ROOTS Teen Center for a month of programming dedicated to the art of Anime. Programs are FREE and open to all teens ages 13-19.

2:30 - 5 PM | Afterschool Snacks for Teens

David and Joyce Milne Public Library Teen Room

Age Group: Teens (age 13-18)

We will be offering afterschool snacks for teens (grades 7-12) throughout the schoolyear, excluding halfdays and holiday weeks. Join us to fuel your busy brains! 1095 Main Street, Williamstown, (413) 458-5369

4-6PM | nbCC Community Forum: Community Picnic

We're doing it a little different this month for the community forum. Join us on Eagle Street, North Adams for a community picnic & conversation. We'll have some games, tables & chairs set up in the pocket park.

Rain location is the First Baptist Church.

We'll have some snacks and light refreshments purchased from Eagle Street eateries, but we also encourage you to stop into one of the Eagle Street businesses to pick up some dinner to-go, or pack your own picnic.

This event is free and open to the public.

MORE INFO: 413-663-7588 info@nbccoalition.org

5 PM | Immigration Panel Discussion

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) invites the public to a panel discussion on

Immigration in the United States During Trump 2.0, on Thursday, April 10, at 5 p.m. in Murdock Hall, Room No. 218. 

This event is free and open to all. 

MCLA Associate Professor of Political Science Dr. Dave Cupery will moderate the discussion. Panelists include Williams College Professor of Political Science Dr. James Mahon, MCLA Associate Professor of Anthropology Dr. Anna Jaysane-Darr, and MCLA Professor of History Dr. Ely Janis. 

6:30 - 8 PM | NAMI Family Support Group

NAMI Family Support Group meets on Zoom on the second Thursday of each month from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. (NAMI Family Support Group is led by family members of people with mental health conditions and is a support group for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Gain insight from the challenges and successes of others facing similar experiences.) Please fill out this form online https://namibc.org/support-and-education/program-interest-form/ or email us at namibc@namibc.org and we'll email you the Zoom link.

10AM | Adams Free Library Storytime | Preschoolers

Every Friday at 10AM in the Lower Annex Meeting RoomTalk, sing, read, write, and play with us! Preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to join us for fun songs, rhymes, stories, finger plays, and crafts all designed to build early literacy skills.This is a free program hosted by the Adams Free Library

2:30 - 5 PM | Afterschool Snacks for Teens

David and Joyce Milne Public Library Teen Room

Age Group: Teens (age 13-18)

We will be offering afterschool snacks for teens (grades 7-12) throughout the schoolyear, excluding halfdays and holiday weeks. Join us to fuel your busy brains! 1095 Main Street, Williamstown, (413) 458-5369

10 AM - 1 PM | Annual Easter Festival & Learn Through Play

Join the Easter Bunny for some FREE Easter FUN!

Location: The Armory, 206 Ashland Street, North Adams

Time:10AM-1PM

Hosted by: City of North Adams, Northern Berkshire Community Coalition & First Baptist Church North Adams

11 - 12PM | Steam Time at the Lanesborough Library

Seeds & Planting activities. Free. Drop-in. For families with children 3-6 years. 83 N Main St, Lanesborough, MA 01237 More info: 413-664-4821.

11AM - 1PM |  DIY Resistance!

Join Greylock Together for refreshments and to make justice focussed buttons and zines! Open to all ages! RSVP requested not required by responding to this form

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdwERN5seWXw2aa6YxR1vLLl86qRWNliCxANn-qdJjEHOP2Hg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawJPv39leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHT3YWDji0QgHV0xqryW7_tE_Az8-LsfwZxJslKUSpnXjVViCQ-1LjH_hoA_aem_jFMG5WRM_lGjznTxrJwgCw

Slow Art Day at MASS MoCA

Did you realize that the average viewer spends only 21 seconds in front of a work of art? Let’s change that, together!

Come celebrate International Slow Art Day and connect more deeply to what you see in our galleries. Enjoy a slow-looking tour at noon or 2pm – it’s chilled-out fun for all ages.

12 PM | Afternoon Meditation

All are welcome! Have Hope Peer Recovery Center, 37 Main St. Suite 201 (right above Berkshire Bank) in North Adams, MA. Phone number (413) 398-1371.

6 PM | Karaoke

All are welcome! Peer-led recovery support. Have Hope Peer Recovery Center, 37 Main St. Suite 201 (right above Berkshire Bank) in North Adams, MA. Phone number (413) 398-1371. Saturdays 6-9pm

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM | FBCNA Easter Egg Hunt

11:30am-12:30pm Join us for worship at 10am, followed immediately by an Easter Egg Hunt at Colegrove Park.

There will also be crafts, games, & prizes.

The field will be divided into 2 sections to accommodate age groups:

* walking to age 5

* ages 6-12

10 AM | Early Intervention Developmental Child Only Community Playgroup

Early Intervention Developmental Child Only Community Playgroup, for ages 20 months to 3 years, Monday through Thursday, (attendance one day a week per child),10 AM to 12 PM, UCP/EI Center, 535 Curran Highway, North Adams, MA, call to enroll (413) 664-9345, ext. 202.

10 - 11 AM | Busy Bees Playgroup Drop-In Playgroup

Williamstown Youth Center, 66 School Street Williamstown.

For children ages infant to 8 years old. Join us for activities, story time and songs. Free drop in Playgroup. Siblings are always welcome.

Call 413-664-4821 with any questions.

10:30 - 11 AM | Baby & Toddler Story Time

We'll have songs and stories aimed at babies and toddlers, but older kids are welcome too. Milne Public Library, 1095 Main St, Williamstown, MA 01267, US REGISTER HERE

11AM - 12PM | Al Anon Meeting

AlAnon Meeting

Meeting - Monday @11:00am-12:00pm

All Saints Episcopal Church (door closest to the post office)

59 Summer Street, North Adams.

12 PM | Afternoon Meditation

All are welcome! Have Hope Peer Recovery Center, 37 Main St. Suite 201 (right above Berkshire Bank) in North Adams, MA. Phone number (413) 398-1371.

2:30 - 5 PM | Afterschool Snacks for Teens

David and Joyce Milne Public Library Teen Room

Age Group: Teens (age 13-18)

We will be offering afterschool snacks for teens (grades 7-12) throughout the schoolyear, excluding halfdays and holiday weeks. Join us to fuel your busy brains! 1095 Main Street, Williamstown, (413) 458-5369

3:30-4:30 PM | Chair Yoga

Looking for a way to practice yoga from the comfort of your own chair? This winter, visit NAPL to join Breathe for Change certified instructor Staci for FREE chair yoga!

Accessible to all levels, chair yoga is a safe, restorative practice that is taught through a trauma-informed approach.

March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

April 7, 14

At 3:30PM

3rd Floor Meeting Room. Space is limited & registration is required.

To register, please email Adult Services Librarian Ryan Miller at

rmiller@northadams-ma.gov or call 413-662-3133, ext. 16.

5:30 - 7:30 PM | Parenting Journey

Mondays, 4/7 - 6/30 - This is an 12 week program. Its mission is to create safer, more resilient families by supporting them in developing their inner strengths, life skills, and network of resources they need to succeed.

Parents who have found value in the program are parents who struggle to manage personal and professional obligations, come from diverse social, cultural, and economic backgrounds, have experienced violence or childhood trauma, in recovery, experience mental health issues,

or are working to regain custody of their children. Registration is free, but space is limited.

(413) 663-7588 or nkennedy@nbccoalition.org

10 AM | Early Intervention Developmental Child Only Community Playgroup

Early Intervention Developmental Child Only Community Playgroup, for ages 20 months to 3 years, Monday through Thursday, (attendance one day a week per child),10 AM to 12 PM, UCP/EI Center, 535 Curran Highway, North Adams, MA, call to enroll (413) 664-9345, ext. 202.

10AM-12PM | Berkshire Nursing Families Baby Group | Breast Feeding Families

free breastfeeding support - hosted by Berkshire Nursing Families Staff in Family Center playroom at 210 State Street North Adams - Call (413) 743-5338 For more information.

12 PM | Afternoon Meditation

All are welcome! Have Hope Peer Recovery Center, 37 Main St. Suite 201 (right above Berkshire Bank) in North Adams, MA. My phone number is (413) 346- 8896 cell or (413) 398-1388 office.

1 - 3 PM | Tent of the Beloved

Tent of the Beloved offers coffee and conversation every Tuesday from 1:00pm-3:00pm in the All Saints parking lot in North Adams. Join us!

2-4PM | Knot Only Knitters Group at the North Adams Public Library located at 74 Church Street. All ages and abilities welcome! Love to crochet or needlepoint? No problem. You do you. Whatever fiber craft you can do from an easy chair, you're welcome to join in! 

2:30-7PM | Drop-in Hours

Open to ages 13 - 22. Drop-in and hang out! Snacks available. Take home meals. Play games, make art, read, or just hang out and meet new friends.

More info

2:30 - 5 PM | Afterschool Snacks for Teens

David and Joyce Milne Public Library Teen Room

Age Group: Teens (age 13-18)

We will be offering afterschool snacks for teens (grades 7-12) throughout the schoolyear, excluding halfdays and holiday weeks. Join us to fuel your busy brains! 1095 Main Street, Williamstown, (413) 458-5369

5:30 - 7:30 PM | 24/7 Dads

24/7 Dads program will help fathers explore their role in the their child’s life. Fathers will learn about themselves and the role they have with their children. Fathers will also learn how to strengthen their relationship with their children and their children’s other parents.

To Register: 413-663-7588 or

nkennedy@nbccoalition.org

10 AM | Early Intervention Developmental Child Only Community Playgroup

Early Intervention Developmental Child Only Community Playgroup, for ages 20 months to 3 years, Monday through Thursday, (attendance one day a week per child),10 AM to 12 PM, UCP/EI Center, 535 Curran Highway, North Adams, MA, call to enroll (413) 664-9345, ext. 202.

10:30 - 11 AM | Early Intervention Parent/Child Community Song & Dance Playgroup

Early Intervention Parent/Child Community Song & Dance Playgroup, for ages birth to 3 years, Wednesdays, 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, Adams Free Library, 92 Park St. Adams, MA, call to enroll (413) 664-9345, ext. 202.

10:30 - 11 AM | Pre-K Story Time

We'll be reading lots of picture books for the pre-K age group; any age kids are welcome to join.

Milne Public Library, 1095 Main St, Williamstown, MA 01267, US REGISTER HERE

12 PM | Afternoon Meditation

All are welcome! Have Hope Peer Recovery Center, 37 Main St. Suite 201 (right above Berkshire Bank) in North Adams, MA. Phone number (413) 398-1371.

2:30 - 5 PM | Afterschool Snacks for Teens

David and Joyce Milne Public Library Teen Room

Age Group: Teens (age 13-18)

We will be offering afterschool snacks for teens (grades 7-12) throughout the schoolyear, excluding halfdays and holiday weeks. Join us to fuel your busy brains! 1095 Main Street, Williamstown, (413) 458-5369

3:30 - 5 PM | UCP Social Sprouts Child Only Community Playgroup

UCP Social Sprouts Child Only Community Playgroup, for ages 3 to 6 years, Wednesdays, 3:30 PM to 5 PM, UCP/Early Intervention Center, 535 Curran Highway North Adams, MA, call to enroll (413) 664-9345, ext. 202.

4 - 7:30 PM | Dungeons & Dragons | Adults ages 18+

Gamers of the Berkshires: Every Wednesday from 4 to 7:30PM, adults (18 and up) are invited to NAPL for Dungeons & Dragons!

Join the North Adams Family Gamers to embark on an epic & unforgettable adventure! All materials will be provided. New & experienced players are encouraged to attend.

3rd Floor Community Room. TOTALLY FREE, but SPACE IS LIMITED AND REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.

To register, please call (413) 662-3133, ext. 13 or 16, or email Adult Services Librarian Ryan Miller at rmiller@northadams-ma.gov.

6-7 PM | NB Beginner's Meeting of Overeaters Anonymous

Every Wednesday evening, All Saints Church, 59 Summer Street, North Adams.

Compulsive overeating, under-eating, food addiction, anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, over exercising... No matter what your challenge with food or body image may be, you are welcome here.

Facing the front of the church, please enter the side door near the parking lot. Once inside, the meeting is straight up the ramp on the left. You may bring your own beverage if you like, however, as a courtesy to others, please do not bring food for yourself or anyone else to the meeting.

6:30-10:30 PM | Berkshire Gamers - Board Game Night

No Admission fee. Open to the Public. UNO Center, 157 River Street, N. Adams

Learn new board games from around the world! Taught by our friendly welcoming table leaders! We also circle back to favorites like Catan, Ticket to Ride, Wingspan, Splendor, Azul, Just One, 7 Wonders, Sushi Go! and more!

Expect a theme every other week!- in the past we’ve done evenings on Trains, Dogs, Auctions, City Building, Ancient Egypt & Greece, Space, game of the year winners, Roll & Writes, cooperative games, games of famous authors, plants & flowers, Cats, bees & pollen, food, racing, Art and Galleries, movies & plays....and more.

4/17 - 4-6PM | Community Conversation #2 Building Belonging

4/17 - 6-9PM | MASS MoCA Teen Invitational

4/18 - 10AM-12PM | Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group

4/19 - 9AM | NAPL hosts Citywide Earth Day Clean Up!

4/19 - 11:30AM | BERKSHIRE EMPORIUM EASTER EGG HUNT

4/19 - 11AM | NB Public Safety Easter Egg Hunt @ Joe Wolfe Field

4/24 - 10AM-12PM | Family Bowling @ the G.O.A.T.

4/26 - 11AM | Berkshire Baby Bonanza

New Resources & Agency Updates

North Adams COA April Newsletter

Adams COA Newsletter

Williamstown COA Facebook Page for Calendar & Updates

Child Care of the Berkshires Calendar

North Adams Public Library Calendar

Milne Library Calendar



NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS:

PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED:

The Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program provides short-term emergency funding to help you with eviction, foreclosure, loss of utilities, and other housing emergencies. RAFT provides up to $7,000 per 12-month period so your family can stay in your current home or move to a new one. You may use the money for rent, utilities, moving costs, and mortgage payments. 

The Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP) provides 0% interest, deferred payment loans to homeowners or landlords for necessary housing adaptations or modifications to improve accessibility for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Loans are secured by placing a mortgage lien on the property for the loan amount, which is paid back when the property is sold—a monthly payment is not required. 

The Berkshire Alzheimer’s Partnership is presenting a free Caregiver Expo to help caregivers find local resources when caring for someone with dementia. The Caregiver Expo will be April 24^th 2-6pm at the Pittsfield Council on Aging.

Please see the link below for more information. 

https://www.berkshirealz.org/vendors

Are you 18 years or older? Do you have a U.S. driver's license? Do you live in Western MA? Get $10 - Share your transportation needs & thoughts on Self-driving cars - takes less than 20 minutes. See if you are eligible for the study by taking this survey or emailing jpamarthi@umass.edu .



Berkshire County residents and those who drive its many unpaved roads are being asked to fill out a survey, in the form of a map, with any issues they notice while traveling. The BRPC is encouraging residents to specify problems on the map in an effort to gather details for possible grant proposals the group could file on behalf of cities and towns in the future.

"Now Accepting New Patients with Immediate Availability! 

Call (413) 339-3970 to book your FREE 30 minute consultation with Jerad H. Phillips, LMHC owner and operator of Clinical Consulting Services, LLC. Conveniently located near you at 85 Main St, suit 224. Your therapist is waiting for you."

The Northern Berkshire Community Television Corporation (NBCTC)—a public access media nonprofit serving cable subscribers in North Adams, Adams, Clarksburg, and Cheshire for 30 years—is embarking on an important and exciting strategic planning process, and we need your valuable input! Please tell us your habits, thoughts, and feelings about community media in the northern Berkshires by filling out this survey. Community media is a vital part of our lives as rural residents, and it is critical to understand if and how you would like more local political, cultural, recreational, and/or educational audio/video content.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/nbctc2025 

CALLING ALL CAREGIVERS!

The Northern Berkshire Youth & Family Collaborative, a group of 20+ family and youth serving providers in north Berkshire, have designed this short survey to better understand parent/caregiver & youth engagement in the community and where parents/caregivers get their information on clubs, events, activities, groups, etc.

It takes less than 5 minutes and will help all our local organizations be more mindful of family engagement in our community and understand where we need to prioritize our efforts.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/J8PLZ77

Heart & Soil Collective: Join Us in 2025: Monthly Volunteer Days- ‘Collective’ is in our name- each year our tree of community connections grows new branches and deeper roots in order to spread our mission and strengthen local food access across Berkshire County. We couldn't do this work without our incredible volunteers- and we've got room for more! 

In 2025 Heart & Soil Collective will hold Volunteer Work Days on the last Saturday of each month to build community, support local food programming and expand our collective connections across the Berkshires. 

Nonotuck Resource Associates provides Adult Family Care, Shared Living and Community Based Day Services. LINK to more info. Through our Adult Family Care (AFC) program, we empower families to keep their loved ones at home rather than in a group home or nursing facility. For individuals who are on MassHealth and require supervision or physical assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), our program provides financial stipends, nursing support, and case management services. Specifically, caregivers can receive a stipend of a daily rate based on level of care.

 What sets Nonotuck apart from other agencies is our commitment to a value-based approach in all our relationships and placements. We emphasize Mutuality of Love and Respect, Authenticity, Interdependence, and Vulnerability. These core values guide us in creating meaningful and supportive connections for the individuals and families we serve.

Ecu-Healthcare: If you or someone you know is looking for public health insurance options such as coverage through MassHealth of Massachusetts Health Connector we may be able to help. MassHealth not only provides health insurance coverage but may also provide “Premium Assistance” to qualifying individuals who are enrolled in employer plans. Ecu-Health Care provides a free public service and is available to assist with applications, annual reviews and renewals, plan selection and enrollment, submission of requests for information or just general information. Give us a call at 663-8711 to schedule an appointment with one of our Health Coverage Counselors. The Ecu-Health Care staff wishes you and your families all the best during these times.

Berkshire Bounty Seeking Volunteers

Tuesday and Thursdays at 2pm: Stop and Shop in North Adams to Berkshire Food Project in North Adams. We are looking for ongoing volunteer to pick up donations on a weekly basis from Stop and Shop and deliver to Berkshire Food Project. We will plan to begin this route in June. If interested reach out to Jenny at jenny@berkshirebounty.org

If you or someone you know is looking for public health insurance options such as coverage through MassHealth of Massachusetts Health Connector we may be able to help. MassHealth not only provides health insurance coverage but may also provide “Premium Assistance” to qualifying individuals who are enrolled in employer plans. Ecu-Health Care provides a free public service and is available to assist with applications, annual reviews and renewals, plan selection and enrollment, submission of requests for information or just general information. Give us a call at 663-8711 or stop by the office at 99 Hospital Ave Suite 208, North Adams to schedule an appointment with one of our Health Coverage Counselors.  

The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission is working with the Massachusetts Broadband Institute on a long-term plan to improve internet and electronic device access, affordability, and digital literacy. We identified your organization as either one currently providing residents digital support, or a trusted community resource positioned to do so.

We would like to know your interest in expanding your work or starting new programs. Please take this short survey about your capacity to provide digital services and what you need to bolster your work in these areas.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/digitaldivideBerkshires

Remedy Hall, a new charitable organization in Williamstown, MA., offering basic life necessities to those in need, free of charge. The “shop” will open on November 1 in room B4 of the First Congregational Church, 906 Main Street.

If we don’t have something that satisfies an urgent need, we will work to find it.

Starting November 1st our hours are 1 to 5 Monday through Friday (subject to expand as we get going).  For those with urgent need, we are always available and can be reached through phone/text and Facebook messenger. 413-884-3051. 

Join your neighbors, and start with a no-cost Mass Save Home Energy Assessment. You may be eligible for:

• No-cost energy-saving products
• Programmable thermostats, high-efficiency faucet aerators and showerheads, and advanced power strips
• Discounts on high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment and appliances
• No-cost air sealing
• 100% off for rental units and moderate income
• households
• 75-100% off approved insulation upgrades

If you or your tenants qualify as low-income, you may be eligible for additional benefits through your Community Action Program (CAP) agency. There are also benefits for 5+ unit buildings. Learn more on the website below. Get your energy assessment today:

masssave.com/berkshires , (413) 613-4937

Beginning September 25, every U.S. household can again place an order to receive four more free COVID-19 rapid tests delivered directly to their home. Before You Throw Out "Expired" Tests: Check to see if your COVID-19 tests' expiration dates have been extended.

NB EMS has a partnership with Berkshire Post Overdose Program (BPOP) to send teams out and provide outreach to those who have recently experienced an overdose and/or are at risk for future overdose. 

 Outreach:

• Wellness checks
• Overdose education and Narcan leave behind
• Linkage to recovery supports
• Harm Reduction
• Treatment resources
• Linkage to additional community resources

Communities serviced at this time: North Adams, Clarksburg, Florida, Williamstown, Hancock, New Ashford, Monroe and Rowe. Please return any referrals directly to aoneil@northadamsambulance.com or they can be dropped off at 10 Harris St North Adams Ma. 

The Mass Department of Public Health’s Community Health Equity Survey (CHES) has just been launched. We need to make sure we have rural voices and experiences in the survey results too! We sincerely hope you will take the survey, and that as a trusted partner in public health, that you will help us spread the word about it.

Some ways you can help: 

• Send a link to family, friends, and colleagues in Massachusetts 
• Promote the survey on organizational mailing lists 
• Post about survey on social media  
• Post flyers about the survey in places like beauty/barber shops, food pantries, grocery stores 
• Use staff or volunteers to identify and support survey takers 
• Promote the survey in your email signature. Just add “Take the Community Health Equity Survey: mass.gov/HealthSurvey” to your email signature. 

Is there room in your home and heart for a foster child? There are over 7,000 children in the MA foster care system. The Department of Children and Families is actively recruiting foster parents for children in your community.  We are searching for individuals or families with the love and patience to help foster children. You can be single, married, partnered, divorced or widowed. You can own your home or rent.

Our goal is to provide our foster children with a supportive and healing environment in a home in their own community until they can be reunited with their families or another plan can be made on their behalf. The rewards of providing daily care, guidance and acceptance are immeasurable.

If you are thinking about becoming a foster parent, we urge you to call us today! Your local recruiter can be reached at

(413)387-7192

1800-KIDS-508/ mass.gov/dcf

MassHire is now hosted in a satellite office in North Adams every Tuesday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at 74 Church Street, at the North Adams Library, North Adams, MA. The following services are available:

·         Career Planning

• Employment Counseling
• Local Job Listings – Updated Daily
• Job Search Assistance
• Online Job Application Assistance
• Labor Market Information
• Occupational Skills Training Information (Eligibility Applies)

And if a customer contacts us needing something that is not listed, we are more than happy to discuss accommodations.CALL TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TIME TODAY! REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Call MassHire Berkshire Career Center at (413) 499-2220 Ext. 110 to book an appointment time. Appointment duration: 30 Minutes

FOOD PANTRIES & MEAL SITES

Download a PDF of county-wide food pantry and meal site resources here. (Version Updated Oct. 5, 2024)

En Espanol

ADAMS

• 1st & 3rd TUESDAYS, 1-2:30PM: CHP MOBILE FARM STAND CHP Adams Family Services, 19 Depot St. Free bag of fresh farm produce. For CHP clients/patients ONLY.
• 2nd & 4th TUESDAYS, 12:30-1:30PM: The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Mobile Food Bank PANTRY, Adams: Adams Council on Aging/Adams Visitors’ Center, 3 Hoosac Street 413-247-9738, ext. 121; No proof of eligibility required. Must be Berkshire County resident. One distribution per household.
• 3rd WEDNESDAYS, 5-7PM: First Congregational Church of Adams PANTRY, Adams: 42 Park Street Adams 413-346-8884
• MON. - THURS. Congregate meals MEAL SITE at 11:30AM. FRI. GRAB & GO MEALS: Adams COA, 3 Hoosac Street, Adams 413-743-8333. Mondays thru Fridays. Congregate meals available for grab & go. Must call Adams COA 24 hours prior.
• FRIDAYS, 11AM-1PM | MOBILE MARKET Berkshire Bounty Mobile Farmers Market, Depot Street Parking Lot, 19 Depot Street, Adams

CHESHIRE

• 1st SATURDAYS, 11AM-Noon: Cheshire Food PANTRY at the Cheshire Community Center, 119 School Street, Cheshire 413-743-9719. Available to all Cheshire residents with proof of residency. Emergency food is also available.
• MON. thru FRI., 10:15AM-Noon: GRAB & GO MEAL SITE: Cheshire COA Cheshire Community Center, 119 School Street, Cheshire 413-743-9719. Congregate meals available for grab & go. Must call Cheshire COA.

NORTH ADAMS

• 2nd & 4th MONDAYS, 1-2:30 PM MOBILE FARM STAND CHP North Adams Family Medical and Dental, 71 Hospital Avenue, North Adams. Free bag of fresh farm produce. For CHP clients/patients ONLY.
• TUESDAY, Noon-3 PM for In-Person / (*WEDNESDAYS, Noon-2 PM for delivery) | PANTRY The Salvation Army Gateway New Life Center 393 River Street, North Adams. For Emergency Pantry please call 413-663-7987. Deliveries on Wednesdays.*Call 413-663-7987 on Tuesdays 10:00am-noon to schedule a delivery. For North County residents only.
• WEDNESDAYS, 10 AM - 2 PM for In-Person / *THURSDAYS, 9:30AM -Noon for Delivery | PANTRY Al Nelson Friendship Center 45 Eagle Street, North Adams, 413-664-0123. Go to the First Baptist Church (Eagles St. entrance) for intake and menu completion. *Those who cannot physically come to the pantry may call 413-664-0123 on Wednesday from 9:30am-2:00pm to set up a delivery for Thursday between 9:30am-Noon. Boxes are pre-packaged based on household size for Thursday deliveries. Please specify cans or no cans. Due to COVID rates we can no longer offer rides home. We will post updates on FACEBOOK. 
• 4th WEDNESDAYS, 5 - 6:30 PM (multiple locations) | PANTRY Berkshire Dream Center Mobile Food 413-522-3495. North Adams Locations: Mohawk Forest at 5:00pm, Brayton Hill at 5:45pm, Greylock at 6:30pm. No requirements.
• THURSDAYS, 12-2PM | MOBILE MARKET Berkshire Bounty Mobile Farmers Market, North Adams Armory, 206 Ashland Street
• 1st & 3rd FRIDAYS, 11AM-12PM | PANTRY The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Mobile Food Bank Brien Center Lot, 124 American Legion Drive, North Adams 413-247-9738, ext. 121; No proof of eligibility required. One distribution per household.
• Berkshire Food Project MEAL SITE | MON.- FRI. 11:30 AM - 1 PM: First Congregational Church of N. Adams, 134 Main Street, North Adams 413-664-7378. * Now returned to in-house seated dining.
• First Baptist Church Community Soup Kitchen MEAL SITE | SATURDAY, 11 AM - 12:30 PM: Eagle Street Entrance, 131 Main St., North Adams, 413-652-7619.
• North Adams COA Congregate meals are Monday through Friday starting at 11:30am.
• North Adams COA Brown Bag distribution will be at the Spitzer Center at 116 Ashland Street on 4th Fridays from 12:30-1:30PM..

WILLIAMSTOWN

• Williamstown Food PANTRY | 1st & 3rd WEDNESDAYS, 9AM-Noon: at St. Patrick & St. Raphael Parish, 53 Southworth Street, Williamstown, 413-458-4946, x11 or 413-458-3149. Drive or walk-thru. Assistance to residents of Hancock, New Ashford, Williamstown, and Pownal, VT.
• Community Bible Church PANTRY. 3rd WEDNESDAYS, Noon-2 PM: 160 Bridges Road, Williamstown, 413-458-5556. Must be a Mass. residents.

OTHER FOOD PROGRAMS

Brown Bag Program: Supplemental monthly food program for eligible 55+ yr. olds, free or for a small donation. For income eligibility requirements or more information, call your Council on Aging.

Elder Services’ Elder Nutrition Program: Noontime meals for those 60+ years of age at several senior centers throughout the County.Call Elder Services of Berkshire County for details and locations at 413-499-0524 or 1-800-981-5201.

Elder Services’ Meals on Wheels Program: Nutritious, hot noontime meals offered Monday - Friday to homebound Berkshire seniors, 60 years of age or older. A suggested donation of $2.00 is requested to help cover the cost of food preparation and delivery. There are eligibility requirements. Please call Elder Services of Berkshire County at 413-499-0524 to make a referral for yourself, family member or friend.

Take and Eat Program: For homebound individuals 60+ years of age, unable to prepare meals, shop, or get out. Meals are delivered on Sundays and are provided for weekends and three-day holiday weekends. More info.: Kathleen Ryan at 413-672-1404 or 413-664-1041

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

• The Massachusetts telehealth service for COVID-19 treatment can now be accessed by a telephone number (833-273-6330) in addition to the website below. The telehealth service can tell you if the COVID-19 pill is right for you, and the pills can be sent to your pharmacy or to your home for free.Please see this new flyer and share this new resource with your residents. Translated versions will be ready soon.Easy, free care for COVID-19 (color.com)
• MassHealth has expanded eligibility and coverage in response to COVID19. See the MassHealth website for more information. 
• SafeLink is Massachusetts's statewide 24/7 toll-free domestic violence hotline. Confidential and anonymous. 1-877-785-2020. For more resources, visit here.
• Elizabeth Freeman Domestic Violence Prevention Center: (866) 401-2425; website
• Department of Children and Families: (413) 236-1800; website
• Al-Anon meetings are being held virtually. Visit the Berkshire Al-Anon website .
• The Massachusetts Smokers' Helpline Receive up to $50(total) of gift cards for completing coaching call series. More info. or call 1-800-Quit-Now to enroll.
• For more info. on nicotine addiction email Joyce Brewer jbrewer@berkshireahec.org. 
• MA residents who believe they are victims of fraud or other criminal activity related to the pandemic should contact the United States Attorney's Office at USAMA.victimassistance@usdoj.gov or 888-221-6023. Members of the public can also contact the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) by visiting www.IC3.gov The Consumer Protection Hotline: (617) 727-8400
• Wheels for Wellness - 413-395-0109 Free rides for the elderly, prioritizing health-related activities. For more info., visit the website or call 413-395-0109.
• Funds available for funeral expenses for COVID-19 related deaths. Applications for the benefit begin by calling FEMA's hotline.
• Digital Vaccination Records: Check out MyVaxRecords.Mass.Gov.
• The COVID-19 vaccine is free for everyone. Register yourself or your child at maimmunizations.org. Download this list of vaccination locations and opportunities.
• Have Hope Peer Recovery Center Have Hope Peer Recovery Center is Open. Our hours are 11:00 am - 7:00pm, Monday through Saturday. We are located at 37 Main St. Suite 201 (right above Berkshire Bank) in North Adams, MA. My phone number is (413) 346- 8896 cell or (413) 398-1388 office. (Becky Dodge)

• Need free transportation to get a vaccine? AdLib, Inc. and County Rainbow Taxi (CRT), offer no-cost transportation to vaccine appointments for Berk. County residents with disabilities. If interested, please call AdLib at 413-442-7047 and leave a message.

YOUTH

• ROOTS Youth Board is looking for new members to join! Participants need to be between 15 and 21 years old. If you have any questions or are interested in joining, contact Youth Board president Alexa Macdonald at rootsybpresident@gmail.com
• Student Tools for Emergency Planning (STEP): The program is an emergency preparedness module designed to empower youth to prepare for disasters and to train them to become leaders in family preparedness. The program is geared for youth or students in the 4th and 5th grade but can be adapted for other age groups. Materials are available for download here. For further information contact Arlene.magoon@fema.dhs.gov or Jedidiah.fiato@associates.fema.dhs.gov.

FOOD ACCESS

If you are in need of or would like to check on your eligibility for SNAP, please call 413-992-6204. Visit the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts website for more information.

FAMILY SUPPORT

• Nonotuck Resource Associates provides Adult Family Care, Shared Living and Community Based Day Services. LINK to more info. Through our Adult Family Care (AFC) program, we empower families to keep their loved ones at home rather than in a group home or nursing facility. For individuals who are on MassHealth and require supervision or physical assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), our program provides financial stipends, nursing support, and case management services. Specifically, caregivers can receive a stipend of a daily rate based on level of care.
• UCP/Northern Berkshire Early Intervention Program, providing intake, developmental evaluation for birth to age 3, in-home services to support self care, social emotional, communication, motor, and cognitive development. Educational, physical, occupational, speech, and behavior therapies. Developmental playgroups and referral services. Call (413) 664-9345, ext 202 to schedule an intake. Visit ucpwma.org for more information.
• The nbCC Family Resource Center is open! Give us a call at 413-663-7588 if you'd like to learn more about the services we provide, or stop in during our office hours.
• The Family Center, a program of Child Care of the Berkshires, is offering virtual and in-person parent and child groups. Open to the public. Families can call The Family Center to access our FREE Children's Clothing Exchange with sizes 0-10. We can still provide diapers or formula through contactless pick up. Please contact the office by calling 413-664-4821. Visit the Family Center's Facebook page and Instagram page for updates on programming. FREE and open to northern Berkshire families with children under age 8.
• Want to learn more about your child’s development and different activities to help your child learn? Take our free Ages and Stages Questionnaire! Answer questions about your child’s development here: ASQ Online . One of our team members will follow up with your child’s results and different activities you can do to keep your child learning while playing! Questions? Email mbelanger@ccberkshire.org
• Berkshire Community Diaper Project: We would be willing to bring diapers to sites for families who need them. Please contact us by email (daltreyt@gmail.com) or call me at 413-446-5038 
• Berkshire Nursing Families: 413-743 5338, www.berkshirenursingfamilies.org
• Childcare Vouchers are available from Seven Hills Foundation by calling 413-236-5890; or contacting Jean at 508-796-0270, jburris@sevenhills.org, or Mabel at 508-796-0271, mcimini@sevehills.org.
• Department of Early Education and Care: (413) 788-8401
• WIC: 510 North Street & North Adams WIC sites are currently closed until further notice, but we are serving our Participants over the phone. If you do not have a scheduled appointment or if you have questions, please call our Pittsfield office at (413) 447-3495 - if we are unable to answer, please leave a voicemail. We will call you back as soon as possible and apologize for the delay. Find the income eligibility guidelines here. Available in Spanish
• Parents Helping Parents Massachusetts is offering online support groups for parents. Visit the Parents Helping Parents website for more information.
• Parental Stress Line. 24-7, free and confidential. CALL: 800-632-8188. 
• Child Mind Institute: Will My Child Bounce Back From the Coronavirus Crisis? Trauma, resilience and how parents can help. [En Español.]

Adult Education, Job Readiness, Housing and Other Assistance

• Northern Berkshire Adult Education Program, located at the North Adams Armory (206 Ashland St.) has openings for In-Person and Online Remote Adult Basic Education (ABE), GED Preparation, Individualized Tutoring, College & Career Readiness, Digital & Fnancial Literacy, and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). We offer morning, afternoon, evening, and remote class options. Prepare to take and pass your GED tests or your TOEFL test and get ready to enroll in post-secondary education or career development. Contact our Program Director, Annie Pecor, at (413) 412 – 1118 or via email at apecor@napsk12.org, and visit us online at https://www.napsk12.org/page/adult-education
• Goodwill Industries of the Berkshires and Southern Vermont would love to meet you. Our career center is open on Thursday from 9:00-4:00 p.m. Drop in and meet Kelly Brennan, Director of Mission Services and learn how she can help you get ready for a job, build your resume or coach you for your interview. (You can also call 413-442-0061 x35 to arrange an appointment on another day)
• The Department of Unemployment Assistance can be reached at (877) 626-6800. Please reach out if you need assistance. You should apply for unemployment benefits during your first week of total or partial unemployment. Most claims are processed within 21-28 days after filing
• HOUSING
• The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development understands that our schools are often called upon to assist in connecting families to key resources such as housing, health services and access to food. To assist in helping to connect you with these resources I wanted to share the links to our Massachusetts Housing Resource Guide that is available in both English and Spanish. This guide is also available in hard copy by emailing ma_webmanager@hud.gov. The guide includes information on a number of different housing and homeless services that are available to assist families.
• Attached is the Berkshire County Regional Housing Authority scope of services and HCEC intake forms. All of this information and a fillable online form to request housing support is also available on the BCRHA website: https://bcrha.com
• Mass Health has launched a new program called Mitigating the Cost of Housing Program (MATCH).The program will allow clients to receive funds to support moving into a new apartment. This would include all managed care plans (Berkshire Fallon, Tufts Together, CommonWealth Care Alliance, MBHP). 
• Eligible families can receive up to $5500 per member in their family. This means a family of four could get as much as $22,000
• To qualify you must be entering the community:
• Renting an apartment that is not currently in your name (just moving in/new lease)
• This could include new members to the community
• People house sharing
• People just getting out of Rehab, Prison or a Psychiatric Hospitalization
• Homeless and moving into an apartment

For more information and to review eligibility criteria please visit Masshealth's MATCH website. 

• Housing Navigator website: This newly launched website offers information on 2000+ affordable properties across Massachusetts.
• End-of-Eviction-Moratorium Resources: There are resources that can be accessed to support individuals and families that are facing eviction or already in the eviction process. The Housing Consumer Education Center intake forms [PDF] are the entry point for the suite of programs offered through Berkshire County Regional Housing Authority. This is an outline of the various programs that are offered [PDF], including Tenancy Preservation Programs (which can be particularly helpful in cases where there is an eviction due to condemnation by the Board of Health) and the Dispute Resolution Program/Mediation Center. For more information or to access the forms online please visit www.bcrha.com. Folks can call Community Legal Aid staff specializing in housing related issues, toll free (855-252-5342), and can apply online to access services. nbCC's Family Resource Center (FRC) can support families with filing for housing support, housing search and programs that might be helpful through their Family Support Workers. Download their referral form here.
• Community Legal Aid’s CORI and Re-Entry Project of Berkshire County: Having trouble finding or keeping housing or employment because of your Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI)? We may be able to help by assisting you with: sealing and expungement of CORI, public and subsidized housing denials, public and subsidized housing terminations, employment denials, and/or housing discrimination based on substance and alcohol use disorder issues. Contact us at 413-499-1950 or apply online www.communitylegal.org. Download a flyer here.
• Louison House, Inc. For all Housing needs contact Louison House at 413-663-6323, ext. 3 during regular hours. Ext 4 has staff on duty 24/7 for after hours. Louison House provides assistance for individuals for their immediate housing needs in order to support them in obtaining and/or maintaining safe affordable housing. Email kkeeser@louisonhouse.org to be added to our newsletter list.  
• St Joe’s (Pittsfield Emergency Shelter) Pittsfield, 413-320-6550, website
• Our Friend's House (Shelter for Families) 292 West Street, Pittsfield (413) 499-2877
• The HomeBase Program is a new program designed to provide a housing solution to families who are at serious risk of homelessness, and provide an alternative to going to a family shelter or motel. IF YOU KNOW OF A FAMILY IN A HOUSING CRISIS WHO NEEDS HELP, TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE HOMEBASE PROGRAM, YOU CAN CONTACT BCRHA: 1-800-248-9002.
• UTILITY & TAX ASSISTANCE
• The Neighbor to Neighbor Grant is available to assist with unforeseen costs. Individuals work with partner agencies to address costs associated with housing, medical bills, utilities and more.
• Dial 211 for general information about programs that may be available, or visit www.mass211help.org.