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e-Zine: Weekly Updates for Northern Berkshire

December 8, 2022

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. Food Access & Distribution Sites
  4. Additional resources and resource updates


For a more comprehensive guide to ongoing area resources, please download the nbCC's Community Resource Guide.


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.


Thank you and stay healthy,


The Staff at the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition


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

WE'RE HIRING! Join the nbCC Team... FOR MORE INFO.
Join Our Mailing List!

Become a Community Outreach Volunteer (COV)!

nbCC COV Class of 2023 Training begins January,23,2022

nbCC's Community Resource Guide is out now in English 2022 Edition and Spanish 2022 Edition is available for download below.


It's a FREE, comprehensive, 44-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 English version here, and the Spanish version here.

BRTA - All bus services will be FREE from November 25 - Dec. 31,2022. 

COMMUNITY EVENTS: THURS. 12/8 - WED. 12/14

12/8 THURSDAY

1 PM | Balance Exercise Class | Ages 55+

 Spitzer Center,116 Ashland St., North Adams. For ages 55+. Presented by the North Adams Council on Aging. 413-662-3125

3-5PM | Homework Help at ROOTS | Grades 9-12

Free weekly homework help and study space. For more information call or tex 413-663-0250. at ROOTs Teen Center, 51 Ashland Street.

4-5 PM | CCB Born to Learn Playgroup | Ages 1-8 yrs.

Born to Learn Playgroup, Thursdays 4 to 5 pm inside the Family Center. Ring the bell to enter. 210 State Street, North Adams. For children ages 1 to 8 years old. Call 413-664-4821 for more information. Drop in Playgroup.

5-7PM | Youth Health Collaborative | Ages 14-19

Are you passionate about making life better for young people in your community? Do you want to put your skills to work to help your peers? The Northern Berkshire Youth Health Collaborative brings together young people from across north Berkshire to address issues relevant to youth in the region. In conjunction with the Northern Berkshire Youth Collaborative, the group will work on projects and initiatives that they deem important. Participants will receive a stipend for their contributions. Apply online at bit.ly/nbCCyouth2022.

12/9 FRIDAY

10AM-12PM | nbCC December Forum: Building & Experiencing Your Self-care Tool Kit

We want to take care of YOU at this month's forum!

Mental health was top on everyone's list of community concerns during our annual assessment and the Coalition invites you to this month's forum to spend this time together on self-care.

Let us take care of you, as we all build a self-care tool kit, while learning about various tips and practices we can all incorporate into our lives to ensure we are taking better care of ourselves so we can continue to work on helping our community thrive.

This month's forum will offer demonstrations, samples, take-home items, and information for better physical, nutritional, emotional and mental health.

No registration required. PLEASE NOTE LOCATION for this month's forum is different.

This will be held at the First Congregational Church in Williamstown, 906 Main Stree

First Congo. Church, 906 Main St., Williamstown. Call us for more information.

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

10AM | CCB Baby Group | 0-12 Months

Friday mornings 10-11am outside of the Haskins Center at 210 State Street, North Adams. For parents and children under 12 months. Call 413-664-4821 for more information. Drop in group.

10:30AM | Community Sing & Play | Families with young children

Community Sing & Play is an interactive story time for young children followed by open play and an activity. This is a free, drop-in program. St. John Episcopal Church, 35 Park St., Williamstown.

This week we will learn Tiny Tim and read The Very Hungry Caterpillar. More info.

1-4 PM | UNO Community Center Coffee Time | Everyone
157 River St., North Adams: Each Friday, 1-4pm. Come on over and join the UNO neighbors for coffee and conversation. All are welcome.  

3-7 PM | ROOTS Teen Center Drop-In Hours | Ages 13-19 51 Ashland Street, North Adams. Play games or foosball, watch movies, use art supplies, eat snacks, and hang out with your friends! FREE. No registration required. Open to all youth ages 13-19. dropin@rootsteencenter.org or 413-663-0250

3-6:30PM | Last Day PopCares Tree Sale

POPCares Annual Christmas Tree fundraiser!! It's Christmas Tree Time!  Again this year, we will be selling Trees at Church Street Lights, 1356 Church Street, North Adams Ma

It’s always a great time!! Get your family together and come enjoying picking out your Beautiful Christmas Tree! Also, get warm near the fire. Here is our Final sale schedule: Wed-Fri 3-6:30PM

This fundraiser is until we are sold out! Trees range in price from $40- $60

All Proceeds will go to local families in Northern Berkshire that are battling cancer.

Raised Here, Stays Here!

4:30-6PM | Open Mic Night @ ROOTS

Teen Center, 51 Ashland Street. Bring your stories, poems, songs, or sing-along karaoke style! Transportation available upon request. In partnership with nbCC. Please call413-663-0250 with any questions.

6-8 PM | Kids' Night Out at the Y | Ages  7-12

Give yourself some TLC while your kids enjoy time socializing with peers. Drop-off your 7-12yr olds at the Northern Berkshire YMCA to enjoy activities like games, pool time, crafts, and pizza while you take a couple of hours to yourself. Free to BFYMCA members/ $5 for non-members. For more information: 413-663-6529 or brousseau@bfymca.org

6-8 PM | Common Craft Night | Everyone
Open invitation for creators and makers to work on projects in our space to build connections and friendships within the creative community. All are welcome!

12/10 SATURDAY

10AM-5PM | Adams Holiday Stroll

Join the festivities at the Adams Holiday Stroll! Saturday, December 10th from 10am-5pm on the Park St., Summer St., and Hoosac St. loop.

There will be a Yeti scavenger hunt 11am-12:30pm.

Visit Santa and his elf and drop of your letters at the Adams Police Station from 11am-12:30pm and at the Adams Incubator at 35 Park St. from 12:30pm-3:30pm!

Shop at the artists and crafters markets at the Real Eyes Gallery at 71 Park St. and the Adams Incubator at 35 Park St.

The Grinch and his dog, carollers, and artists, craft, and food vendors will be set up around the loop!

Businesses will have refreshments and special offers.

The Tinseliner train will run 3 trips from the Hoosac St. station:

1:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 6:00 PM

https://www.berkshiretrains.org/tickets

Happy Holidays! 

10AM-12PM | Make It Take It Fair

Presented by Youth Center Inc. at Cheshire Elementary, 191 Church St. Cheshire

Please join us for our annual Make It Take It Craft Fair at the former Cheshire Elementary School Cafeteria. This years event will feature more than 8 activities ranging from free to $6.00. We will have a special guest appearance from Santa at 11:30! More info.

10-11AM | Make a Holiday House STEM Event | For families with children 2-8yrs old

Held at the Family Center, 210 State Street, North Adams. Call 413-664-4821 to register.

11AM-12:30PM | Winter Scavenger Hunt: Find the Yeti!

Visit some of the local businesses in Adams and look for the yeti hidden inside! Fist stop? The Adams Visitors Center to grab your passport to collect a stamp at each location.Prizes will be given out to those with fully stamped passports returned to the Adams Visitors Center.

For more information, call nbCC at 413.663.7588 or email gglasier@nbccoalition.org


1- 4PM | Free Tours & Concert at All Saints Episcopal Church | Everyone

Tour an Historic Building and enjoy the Tiffany Priceless Artworks! Open free to the public from 1:00pm-4:00pm every Saturday in July All Saints Episcopal Church, 159 Summer Street,North Adams, MA . Concert following the tour by Dr. Matthew McConnell.

1-3PM | Family Friendly Trail Hike

Explore the beauty of Mount Greylock in all its winter glory on this short, easy paced hike led by a Park Interpreter. We'll look for signs of wildlife and enjoy the seasonal changes in the forest. Suitable for families with children able to walk one to three miles on an easy to moderate trail.

Dress appropriately for variable winter weather. Trails may be snow-covered, icy or muddy. Trekking poles and traction devices for boots (or snowshoes) are recommended. Bring drinking water and a snack.

Meet at the Visitor Center.

Inclement weather cancels.

This event is FREE for all ages. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information: Call the Visitor Center at (413) 499-4262.

12/11 SUNDAY

1-2 PM | Pups At the Park | Dogs and their Humans
Berkshire Pup People, we love to play and meet other pups (and humans) who feel the same. That’s why we’re headed to the North Adams dog park every Sunday from 1 - 2pm (ish)! Why don’t you meet us there?

3-5PM | Adams Artist Meet-up

These Adams Artist Meet-Ups at the Adams Incubator will happen every second Sunday of the month moving forward! We're so grateful for Yina Moore to host us in the NEW Incubator Space.

Stop by from 3-5 to connect with fellow creators, as we have all been pretty isolated over the past couple of years.⁠

A collaborative effort with the Adams Arts Advisory Board, Rapoza Center for the Arts, and the Adams Theater More info.

12/12 MONDAY

10-11AM | The CCB Family Center's Drop-In Playgroup at Broad Brook Playground on Harrison Ave, Williamstown. For families with children ages 1 to 5 years. Call 413-664-4821.

10AM | Cribbage | Ages 55+ Don't know how to play? We'll teach you.

12:30 PM | Bridge Games | Ages 55+

Spitzer Center,116 Ashland St., North Adams. For ages 55+. Presented by the North Adams Council on Aging. 413-662-3125

3-7 PM | ROOTS Teen Center Drop-In Hours, 51 Ashland Street, North Adams. Play games or foosball, watch movies, use art supplies, eat snacks, and hang out with your friends! FREE. No registration required. Open to all youth ages 13-19. dropin@rootsteencenter.org or 413-663-0250

3:30-5:30 PM | The nbCC Bike Collective, located at the North Adams Armory, 206 Ashland St., North Adams. Look for the garage in the back; outside weather permitting. If you are in need of a bike, we have bikes to sell or that can be earned. If you are looking to fix, maintain or tune your bike, we can help with that too. We accept bike donations. All residents from Northern Berkshire are welcome!

4:30-6PM | Positive Behavior Support (ZOOM)

Join the Family Center and Clinical & Support Options for a virtual parent workshop on ZOOM. Learn strategies for challenging behavior, understanding why a child is engaging in behavior and developing alternative ways to deal with behavior. email bprince@ccberkshires.org or 413-664-4821

5-6:30 PM | nbCC Youth Empowerment Program, 61 Main Street, Rm. 213, North Adams. Free and open to youth, 6-8th grade, who live in or attend school in North Berkshire. A weekly group to talk about school, emotions, navigating teen years, making friends and more. Snacks provided; transportation available. Register 413-663-7588

12/13 TUESDAY

9-11AM | Berkshire Nursing Families Baby Group | Breast Feeding Families

A support and social group for nursing mothers/families. Family Center Play Space at 210 State Street. For more information.

10:30-11:30AM | Toddler Time at the North Adams Public Library located at 74 Church Street. Let's read some stories and get the wiggles out! No registration required. Masks please.

10AM | Creative Christmas Craft Day Spitzer Center. Come and enjoy creating one of the many crafts that will be offered, such as wreaths and garlands.

12:10 PM | Bingo | Ages 55+

Spitzer Center,116 Ashland St., North Adams. For ages 55+. Presented by the North Adams Council on Aging. 413-662-3125

2-4PM | Not 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! 

3-4:30PM | Real Talk OH at ROOTS | Ages 13-19

Free weekly group with local clinical social worker Keith Jones.To register: call or tex 413-663-0250. at ROOTs Teen Center, 51 Ashland Street.

5-7 PM | nbCC Youth Leadership Program, 61 Main Street, Rm. 213, North Adams. Free and open to youth ages 14-19 who live in or attend school in North Berkshire. Young people are changing the world and you can too. Make a positive change in yourself and the world around you. Develop leadership skills, discuss what drives you, meet other young leaders and plan projects in your community. Snacks provided; transportation available. Call 413-663-7588

12/14 WEDNESDAY

9:30 AM | Tai Chi | Ages 55+

Spitzer Center,116 Ashland St., North Adams. For ages 55+. Presented by the North Adams Council on Aging. 413-662-3125

10-11 AM | Baby & Me at the Y | Ages 6-18 months
22 Brickyard Ct., North Adams. This is a program for children ages 6-18 months and their parents. All parents are welcome! FREE to Y members. Y membership required. 30-minutes of optional swim time in a dedicated pool space with you, your child, and other playtime members! To register: Brandon, 413-663-6529, brousseau@bfymca.org

10:30-11:30 AM | Family Center's Toddler/Preschool Playgroup | Ages 16mo. - 4yrs

The Family Center playroom at 210 State Street. For families with children 16 months through 4 years in the Family Center Playroom at 210 State Street. Drop In playgroup. Call 413-664-4821 with any questions.

10:30 AM | Story and Craft Time with Nora | 4yrs+

At the North Adams Public Library. 10:30AM. Read a story and make a craft with community guests and library staff. Drop in Wednesdays at 10:30am. More info.

12:30PM | Super Bingo at Sugar Hill Assisted Living Center in Dalton. Their van will be picking up those wishing to attend at the Spitzer Center at 12:30PM.

1 PM | Chair Yoga | Ages 55+

Spitzer Center,116 Ashland St., North Adams. For ages 55+. Presented by the North Adams Council on Aging. 413-662-3125

3-7 PM | ROOTS Teen Center Drop-In Hours, 51 Ashland Street, North Adams. Play games or foosball, watch movies, use art supplies, eat snacks, and hang out with your friends! FREE. No registration required. Open to all youth ages 13-19. dropin@rootsteencenter.org or 413-663-0250

5-7 PM | nbCC Teen Writing Workshop | Ages 13-19

nbCC Conf. Rm. 213, 61 Main Street, North Adams. Free and open to youth ages 13-19 who live in or attend school in North Berkshire. Aspiring writers and poets! Join this incredibly supportive group and get 1-on-1 support from peer and creative mentors! with your writing and performance style. Opportunities to perform and be published. Snacks and supplies provided; transportation available. Register online: bit.ly/nbCCyouth or call 413-663-7588

SAVE THE DATES!

12/15 - 10-11:30PM | Food Access Collaborative Meeting @ MountainOne Meeting Room

12/15 - 3:30-5PM | LGBTQ+ Teen Meet Up | Ages 11-14. Join ROOTS for this peer group

12/16 - 4PM | Air Plant Ornaments | Teens 13-19. Collaboration with the ROOTS Teen Center and the Plant Connector. Registration required. 413-663-0250.

12/16- 7PM | Holiday story readings by Chris Voss at Hearts Pace Tea Shop

12/17 - 10-11AM | Learn Thru Play: Colors | Ages 0-5

UNO Community Center. Activities will have a focus on art. Reg. Required: 413-663-7588 or nkennedy@nbccoalition.org.

12/29 - 1-3PM | Winter Wonderland Activity Day | This special program is designed as a self-guided activity but may be led by a Park Interpreter. FREE for all ages. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. More info.

12/29 - 2-4PM | Zines with NAPL | Teens 13-19. ROOTS Teen Center & North Adams Public Library. Create miniature magazines that reflect original artwork created by the you!

12/30 - 10:30AM | Kids Yoga at NAPL Kids ages 8-12 are invited to join us for yoga in the Community Room with Leslie Appleget. More info.

1/5 - 3-5PM | Career Prep for Teens with MassHire. ROOTS Teen Center.

1/16 - MLK Day of Service

New Resources and Agency Updates

 Volunteers at the Berkshire Immigrant Center are gathering retail gift cards in $20, $25 and $50 denominations to help local immigrant households in need buy food, clothing and other necessities during the holiday season. Please consider joining our gift card project.  Make checks out to Berkshire Immigrant Center and write “Holiday Gift Cards” in the memo line. Mail to Berkshire Immigrant Center, 67 East St., Pittsfield MA 01201. Donations will be accepted through the holiday season ending January 15, 2023.


City of North Adams is holding their annual food drive from Monday, Dec. 5 through Friday, Dec. 16, 2022. Donations may be dropped off at collection boxes at City Hall, the North Adams Public Schools, the North Adams Public Library, the Mary Spitzer Center and the North Adams Police and Fire Departments.


Social Services Funding Opportunity


The City of North Adams is soliciting proposals from not-for-profit social service

agencies and licensed providers to provide funding for their agency services that will be

part of its upcoming FY’22-23 CDBG program year. This will be for a 15-month

program with total moneys available at $70,000.

Project RFP packets are available at its Office of Community Development (OCD), Bid #

NA-2022-016, City Hall on Monday, November 21, 2022, or viewed on the website of

www.northadams-ma.gov. DEADLINE TO SUBMIT: 12:00 p.m. on Friday,

December 16, 2022, at the OCD (Room 107) in City Hall - 10 Main Street, North Adams.

This project is contingent upon funding from the City’s FY’2022-2023 Community

Development Block Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development,

pursuant to Title I of the Housing & Community Development Act of 1974, which is

anticipated on or about 7/1/2023.

Any questions concerning the proposed project should be directed to Michael Nuvallie,

Director of the OCD, at 413-662-3000 (x-3227) or emailed at ocd@northadams-ma.gov.


COVID-19 In-Home Vaccination Program (info link below). This is for anyone who has difficulty getting to,or using a community vaccination location, for whatever reason. This program is available statewide, including the Islands. Ages 6 months and up. (What a great way to get an entire busy family with young kids vaccinated – or folks who have transportation issues- or homebound elders!) More Information. All vaccine types (Pfizer, Moderna, Novavax, and J&J) and boosters are available. You can sign up for an appointment by phone at (833) 983-0485 or online. 

 

COVID-19 In-Home Vaccination Program | Mass.gov

MassHire is now sitting at the BCAC office every Tuesdays (9am-3pm). They are offering help with job searches (not unemployment). People can make an appointment by calling 413-499-2220. They do also accept walk-ins. Masks are required.


"Level UP" Workshop Series for NONPROFITS ( Sept 13- Dec. 13)Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires and BRPC have dozens of upcoming workshops in their "Level Up" Series for nonprofits. Some are in-person and some are webinars that take place on zoom. For a full list of upcoming workshops or to register: https://npcberkshires.org


The Ecu-Health Care office doors are open. Due to our office being in a medical complex, masks are required when you enter the building. We want to remind everyone of Open Enrollment which begins on November 1st and runs through until January 23, 2023. This is the time to enroll without needing a qualifying event to enroll in insurance or to make changes to your current application. 


DTA: EBT Benefit Theft: EBT card users are being encouraged to re-PIN their cards to prevent benefit theft. More info here and here


DTA North Adams Satellite Office located at 45 Main Street in North Adams. Effective October 1, the North Adams Satellite Office will be open for business on Tuesdays from 8:45am – 5:00pm; the office will no longer be open on Thursdays, after October 1. The agency will have signs on the door to notify clients and will be updating the mass.gov website.Clients can continue to use the DTA Assistance line 877-382-2363, DTA Connect mobile app and DTAConnect.com for their DTA needs.


BCAC is seeking volunteer van drivers! For those interest in learning more of applying please contact Michelle Sylvester at (413) 418-3675 or email: msylvester@bcacinc.org

They are also seeking volunteers to help “KEEP OUR KIDS, BERKSHIRE WARM!!”

2022 ELF/Warm Clothing Program (Pittsfield office only)


Goodwill Industries: Do you want help creating a resume, receiving job interview techniques or job search assistance? Goodwill Industries of the Berkshires and Southern Vermont can help you. Call Lynette Livermore at 413-442-0061 x32. Office hours: 8:00 a.m. -3:30 p.m.


VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at Berkshire Food Project. Food Prep, Dishwashing, Cleaning Helpers Needed The Berkshire Food Project has various jobs for volunteers to fill. Among the most needed are for dishwashers, food preparers, and cleaners. Contact Mark: 413-329-4960 or director@berkshirefoodproject.org


Milton Hershey School is one of the world’s best private schools, where qualifying students in pre-K through 12th grade live on campus. Students receive an exceptional educational experience, nurturing home life, college and career readiness support, and comprehensive health and wellness care, including medical and dental services, food, and clothing—with all costs covered. For more information, visit mhskids.org.

 

Food Access and Distribution Sites

FOOD PANTRIES & MEAL SITES

Download a PDF of county-wide food pantry and meal site resources here. (Updated Nov. 17, 2022)

ADAMS

  • 2nd & 4th TUESDAYS, 10-11 AM: 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.
  • WEDNESDAYS, 11AM - 1PM: St. John Paul II Charity Center PANTRY, Rte. 8 across from Walgreens, Adams, 413-743-0577. Assistance to residents of Adams, Cheshire, and Savoy.
  • 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.

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

  • 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. IF UNVACCINATED, PLEASE WEAR A MASK.
  • 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.
  • 1st & 3rd FRIDAYS, 10-11 AM | 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 GRAB & GO MEAL SITE | MON./WED./FRI. 11:30 AM - 1 PM: First Congregational Church of N. Adams, 134 Main Street, North Adams 413-664-7378.
  • 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

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & ANNOUCEMENTS

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

  • The Ecu-Health Care office doors are open. Due to our office being in a medical complex, masks are required when you enter the building. 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 this difficult time.”
  • MassHealth has expanded eligibility and coverage in response to COVID19. See the MassHealth website for more information. 
  • The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Berkshire County Warm Line, 413-445-1136 Call center accepts calls until 8PM. If operators are not available, callers will receive a callback within 24 hrs. Information is confidential.
  • 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.
  • UPDATED COVID-19 Guidelines: The CDC Community Levels are a new tool to help communities decide what prevention steps to take based on the latest data. Levels can be low, medium, or high and are determined by looking at hospital beds being used, hospital admissions, and the total number of new COVID-19 cases in an area. Take precautions to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 based on the COVID-19 Community Level in your area. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html.
  • 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.
  • CDC COVID Data Tracker: Visit the CDC website for national-, state-, and county-level data on COVID-19.
  • 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

  • The Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) is issuing emergency SNAP (food stamp) supplements to many SNAP households to help buy food during the pandemic crisis. Click here to see if you will get extra SNAP benefits.
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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.
  • If you are concerned about being able to pay your rent or mortgage arrears when the eviction and foreclosure moratorium ends, Berkshire Housing services are available to help you, including tenant/landlord/homeowner housing counseling; dispute resolution; tenancy preservation; financial assistance if eligible; and much more! The first step is to complete the Assessment Form found here. Available in English and Spanish and can be submitted via PDF. If a household must print the form it can be faxed to 413-496-9831 or mailed to Berkshire Housing Development Corp./Berkshire County Regional Housing Authority; ATTN: HCEC Assessment, P.O. Box 1180, Pittsfield, MA 01202. If you don't have a computer or need additional guidance, please call (413) 499-1630, ext. 157, and leave a message. The phone line is checked multiple times during the week Monday through Friday.
  • Although Berkshire County Regional Housing Authority's (BCRHA) physical office space will be closed to the public, BCRHA staff will continue to work with households in need of assistance through telephone and video conferences, when possible. You may leave a message at (413) 443-7138. Messages will be checked periodically throughout each weekday. You can also go to BCRHA's website www.bcrha.com for a staff directory.
  • Louison House, Inc. remains OPEN for services and has returned to the Church Street Flood House. 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.

61 Main Street, Suite 218
North Adams. MA 01247
Tel: (413) 663-7588 | Fax: (413) 663-9877
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