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e-Zine: Weekly Updates for Northern Berkshire

June 15, 2023

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.


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

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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.

COMMUNITY EVENTS: THURS. 6/15 - WED. 6/21

6/15 THURSDAY

10-11:30 AM | Preschool Pals Group Drop-In Playgroup at Williamtown Youth Center (66 School Street Williamstown). Join us with children 3-5yrs, for play in the gym, activities, geared towards preschool readiness. Free 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 Thursdays at 10:30am. More info.

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

3-6PM | Engaging the Youth Drop in Hours | Grades 8-12

3:30-4:30 PM | Peer Parent Support Group | Parents

at UNO Community Center, 157 River St., North Adams: A peer-driven/peer-supported group in a judgment-free, confidential space. Share interests, experiences, and challenges in child-rearing in a laidback and low key environment. No registration required.

4-5 PM | Jumping Beans Playgroup | Ages 1-8 yrs.

Inside the Family Center at 210 State Street North Adams. For children ages 1 to 8 years old. Join us for activities, story time and songs. Free drop in Playgroup, use doorbell for entering building. Call 413-664-4821 for more information.

6/16 FRIDAY

7:30AM | Eagle Street Coffee Date with nb United Way

It's that time of year again, when we get to come together, make new friends, caffeinate ourselves, and appreciate the warm months in our NAMAzing City at our favorite little downtown community location.

We are excited to kick off the 5th season of this loved community event.

These events are FREE and open to the public, so come on by, and bring a friend!

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 | Baby’s First Year Group | 0-12 Months

Friday mornings 10-11am inside of the Family Center at 210 State Street, North Adams. For parents and children under 12 months. Meet other parents, gain support and enjoy play with your baby. Free drop in Playgroup, use doorbell for entering building. Call 413-664-4821 for more information.  

11:30AM | nbCC 37th Annual Meeting

Join us! The nbCC Annual Meeting is coming up quickly and we hope you'll be there to celebrate 37 years of community with us.


Register here: https://conta.cc/40HKN9l



This year we'll be honoring George and Nancy Canales as our Northern Berkshire Heroes for their decades of selfless community service and engagement.


An extra special treat this year... we've digitized our extensive photo collection from the early years of the coalition and we want to give them back to the community. Attendees will be able to look through our old photos and take any they want to keep. 



Tickets are $25/person, but scholarships are available. Buffet lunch will be provided by M & J's Taste of Home Catering.

For questions or to register by phone: 413-663-7588

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.  

2-4PM | FREE Car Seat Safety event To make an appointment, please call 413-662-8034 and leave a message with your name and phone number. 

5-7PM | Bocce at UNO Park ( Rescheduled from last week!)

Learn how to play to bocce on the bocce court at UNO Park, located at 157 River Street. Nick Mantello and fellow bocce enthusiasts will lead this informal gathering.

Questions? Call us at 413-663-7588 or email Jessi, jbyrne@nbccoalition.org

5PM | Dad & Me Bowling with CCB. Must register to attend. Free. This will take place at Valley Park Lanes. To register email Bethany bprince@ccberkshire.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!

6/17 SATURDAY

9AM - 1PM | North Adams Farmers Market (2 MFC PTS)

The market is BACK in our summer home at the St. Anthony parking lot (corner of St. Anthony Dr./ Marshall St.)

Join us every Saturday through October, rain or shine, to shop local farms and food producers for fresh local veggies, fruits, eggs, breads, baked goods, meats, honey, syrup, jams, jellies, pickles and more, plus a rotating variety of local crafters.

The market PROUDLY accepts HIP, Wic & Senior Coupons, and SNAP and we DOUBLE SNAP up to $30! https://www.facebook.com/NorthAdamsFarmersMarket


9AM - 1PM | Williamstown Farmers Market

The market is BACK in its summer home at the parking lot by Lickety Split at the bottom of Spring Street in Williamstown.

Join us every Saturday , rain or shine, to shop local farms and food producers for fresh local veggies, fruits, eggs, breads, baked goods, meats, honey, syrup, jams, jellies, pickles and more, plus a rotating variety of local crafters. For more information: https://www.facebook.com/WilliamstownFarmersMarket

9:30-11AM | Growing Healthy Gardens Community Gardening (2 MFC PTS)

Join other gardening enthusiasts in caring for and enjoying the many community garden beds near the UNO Community Center and River Street. The group meets every Saturday. For more information call: 413-663-8131

10-11AM | Sidewalk Chalk Event at Adams Visitors Center

Inviting residents and families of Adams! Join us for sidewalk chalk fun making the walkways around the visitors center bright and cheerful! Snacks and chalk provided.

For more information: 413-663-7588 or nkennedy@nbccoalition.org

11AM-5PM | I Am Afro Festival | Everyone

Starting Juneteenth weekend off with festival in celebration of dance, music, art and freedom. This will take place at 134 Main Street at the First Congo. Church. North Adams

What is Juneteenth:

“Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863, it could not be implemented in places still under Confederate control. As a result, in the westernmost Confederate state of Texas, enslaved people would not be free until much later. Freedom finally came on June 19, 1865, when some 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. The army announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved black people in the state, were free by executive decree. This day came to be known as "Juneteenth," by the newly freed people in Texas.” -nmaahc.si.edu

10AM-9PM | Berkshire Mountain Faerie Festival | Everyone

Put on your faerie wings and enjoy a magical day of whimsical activities, music, vendors and food!

Join us for a family fun-filled day celebrating creativity, art, learning, and stewardship of the Earth 

Admission $12

Ages 6-12 $5

Ages 5 & under FREE

This program is supported in part by a grant from the Cultural Council of Northern Berkshire, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

11:30AM | MFC Walk at Tannery Falls (2 MFC PTS)

MFC 2pts: Join North Adams Mayor, Jennifer Macksey for a walk of the beautiful Tannery Falls. Participants will meet in the North Adams City Hall lot and carpool to the location. Free and open to the public. No registration required. This event counts as 2PTs if you are participating in the month long challenge! Transportation is available with at least 24 hours prior notice. 413-663-7855 or jbyrne@nbccoalition.org

6/18 SUNDAY

9:30AM - 1:30PM | Mini Makers Market

Greylock WORKS' mini maker market returns to the Berkshires! Find a synergetic group of local artisan vendors set up inside the doors of our 135+ year old, stunningly renovated mill building.

Held every Sunday from 9:30am - 1:30pm. Enjoy thoughtfully inspiring food from The Break Room alongside this uniquely intimate shopping experience.

10AM | MFC Basketball Games (2 MFC PTS)

PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE OF TIME! MFC 2pts: Sundays in June head to the Noel Field courts for a friendly MFC basketball game or two. Adults game at 10; kids game at 11.

No registration required. For more information 413-652-5578 or lrandall@northadams-ma.gov

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?

12-3PM | Juneteenth Eve Concert

Free and open to the public. A celebration of Black Music Appreciation Month. Taking place at MCLA Church St. Center, 265 Church Street, North Adams.

Performances by Wanda Houston, Tendai Muparutsa, Misty Blues, Chantell McFarland, and the Diego Mongue Band.

6/19 MONDAY - JUNETEENTH

PLEASE CHECK WITH ORGANIZERS IF REGULAR PROGRAMMING IS RUNNING ON THIS HOLIDAY.

10-11:30 AM | Busy Bees Play and Learn Group Drop-In Playgroup at Williamtown Youth Center (66 School Street Williamstown). Join us for play in the gym, activities, story time and songs. Free drop In playgroup. Call 413-664-4821 with any questions.

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

12:30PM | Balance Class | 60+ Years

Balance Class at the 60+Center (712 West Cross Road) in Clarksburg on Mondays at 12:30.

The class is free and open to everyone age 60 and over.

3:30-5:30 PM | nbCC Bike Collective Open Hours (2 MFC PTS)

The Bike Collective is BACK to a weekly schedule!

Located at the Armory, 206 Ashland St., North Adams.

Bring your own bike or work on a bike at the bike collective. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from other community members on basic bike fixes, or team up with more experienced bike mechanics to rebuild a bike. Tools and stands are provided. All NB residents are welcome! For more info, call us at 413-663-7588.


5:30-6:30PM | Downtown Bike Around (2 MFC PTS)

Join us for the return of the Downtown Bike Around, a free, weekly, community group bike ride, suitable for all ages. Meeting at the Armory garage lot. Weather permitting. Bikes available if needed. Call us at 413-663-7588 or jbyrne@nbccoalition.org. Meet at the Armory, 206 Ashland St., North Adams.

6/20 TUESDAY

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) 344-2800 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.

6-8 PM | Conversation on Alzheimer's & Dementia (2 MFC pts)

MFC 2pts: Join Jeff Kennedy for a hike an evening hike by Western Summit. Participants will park in the DCR parking lot at the trailhead. This is located just past the Wigwam Western Summit on Route 2 towards Florida MA. Free and open to the public. No registration required. This event counts as 2PTs if you are participating in the month long challenge! Transportation is available with at least 24 hours prior notice. 413-663-7855 or jbyrne@nbccoalition.org. FREE and open to the public. For more info: 413-663-7588 or jbyrne@nbccoalition.org

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! 

3:30-4:30 PM | Drop-In Art Club | 8-19 YRS

Join the fun at our Drop-In Art Club! Designed for youth, ages 8 up to 19. Providing free after-school activities to youth, every Tuesday, at the UNO Community Center, 157 River Street, North Adams. Caregivers are not required to attend, but the program facilitators are not responsible for childcare. Snacks and supplies provided! Call or email the nbCC for more info: 413-663-7588 or gglasier@nbccoalition.org

6-8 PM | A Community Conversation on Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia (2 MFC pts)

MFC 2pts: Visit the North Adams Public Library for a A Community Conversation on Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia with the Alzheimer's Association of Western MA. Here you'll learn about ways to lower your risk for Alzheimer's disease & dementia, the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia, early warning signs, and local resources to help.

Presented by the Alzheimer's Association of Western MA in collaboration with the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition, the North Adams Public Library, & the City of North Adams as a Mayor's Fitness Challenge Event! 3rd floor Meeting Room. Brain healthy snacks will be provided! No registration is required. Any questions please email Adult Services Librarian Ryan Miller at rmiller@northadams-ma.gov, or give us a call at (413) 662-3133.

FREE and open to the public. For more info: 413-663-7588 or jbyrne@nbccoalition.org

6-8PM | Parents Cafe for Foster/Adoptive Families

Parents’ Cafe -Foster & Adoptive Parents

Tuesday June 20, 6:00 - 8:00 pm, Terra Nova, 85 Main Street, North Adams

For foster and adoptive parents who are parenting children with trauma. A guided conversation where peers will share their experiences and learn from each other. This is a FREE event where dinner will be provided as well as childcare by a DCF approved caretaker. Registration required: 413-663-7588, nkennedy@nbccoalition.org or https://bit.ly/june_parents_cafe

6/21 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 | Terrific Tots Play & Learn Group | Ages 18mo. - 4yrs

The Family Center playroom at 210 State Street. For families with children 18 months through 4 years in the Family Center Playroom at 210 State Street. Drop In playgroup. Call 413-664-4821 with any questions.

1PM | Parent Child Yoga w/ Amy Sosne

with CCB. Register: 413-664-4821 or TUtter@ccberkshire.org

Outdoors at 210 State Street. Call 413-664-4821 with any questions.

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

5:30-8 PM | Concerts at Windsor Lake + MFC Activities (2 MFC PTS)

Join the Mayor's Fitness Challenge up at Windsor Lake every Wednesday in June to enjoy the live music, and a healthy activity! Pack a blanket and some food an enjoy a picnic dinner, too! Questions? 413-663-7855 or jbyrne@nbccoalition.org



6/21 - Join us for a nature walk around the lake. Live music by Greg Caproni

6/28 - That's a WRAP! Let's celebrate the end of the Challenge! Winners will be announced and prizes will be awarded. We'll have games, too. Live music by Pandemic Relief

SAVE THE DATES!

6/1-6/28 - Mayor's Fitness Challenge Events and activities For the full list go here.

6/23 - 5-9:30PM | North Adams Pride Celebration @ MASS MoCA Courtyard

6/26 - 5-6:30PM | Family Center Summer Picnic at Windsor Lake

6/30 - 5-7PM | UNO Block Party!

New Resources & Agency Updates

North Adams COA June Newsletter

Adams COA June Newsletter

Williamstown COA June Newsletter

Child Care of the Berkshires June Calendar

North Adams Public Library Calendar

Milne Library Calendar


The summer Point In Time Count of folks experiencing homelessness is happening on June 14th. The Point in Time Count is an attempt to determine how many people are experiencing homelessness in Berkshire, Franklin, & Hampshire Counties during a single night. This process helps programs and providers to advocate for additional resources and supports and provides valuable information around how many people are currently experiencing homelessness in our area. 

Included below is additional information about the event, flyers to support outreach, and a link to data from January and previous years. 

The Berkshires have three points of contact. Please feel free to reach out to them with any questions. . 

Berkshire–North: Kathy Keeser. KathyKeeser@gmail.com

Berkshire–South: Jane Ralph jralph@constructberkshire.org

Berkshire–Central: Erin Forbush EForbush@servicenet.org


PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED:

Message from NB EMS: Know someone who recently overdosed? Have you overdosed recently? We can help! NB EMS, in partnership with the Berkshire Post Overdose Program, will outreach to anyone who has recently experienced an overdose and/or is at risk for future overdose. We can provide wellness checks, overdose education and naloxone kits, links to recovery support, harm reduction (including supplies), treatment resource, community engagement outlets, overdose safety plans.. Find out more: 413-398-9155 or aoneil@northadamsambulance.com


The Adams Theater is offering FREE student tickets and community passes to their 2023 season. Available upon request at info@adamstheater.org


Welcome North County Residents!

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)


Applications for MassHire's Youth Works program are now available for youth 14-25 year olds. Youth Works provides PAID internship opportunities at organizations throughout Berkshire County. A copy of the application can be downloaded here.


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


North Berkshire: There’s still time to sign up for a subsidized farm share! Hoosac Harvest is again working with several CSA farms to subsidize the cost of shares so that all members of the community have access to local farms and local food. 

Here’s how to sign up: 

  1. Email Kathy Keeser of Hoosac Harvest to make sure you qualify (if you’re receiving SNAP or other benefits, you are likely to qualify). Kathykeeser@gmail.com | 413-664-4006
  2. Contact your farmer directly to arrange CSA signup. 

A limited number of shares are available, mainly from Many Forks Farm in Clarksburg, Mass., Full Well Farm in Adams, Mass., and Wildstone Farm in Pownal, Vt. 

Subsidized shares are based on income and reduce the full share cost by 40%-60%. Payment plans and payment by EBT/SNAP are available. Both Many Forks and Full Well are also Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) vendors, which means that customers paying for their farm share with SNAP dollars will see $40-$80 of their SNAP payment immediately reimbursed to their SNAP card—effectively making the cost of a CSA share even lower, while supporting local farmers!



BCAC has also launched a community needs survey to get feedback to inform their program planning for the next three years.

Berkshire Community Action Council (BCAC) would like your input.  

Your responses will help us to design or modify our programs to better meet your needs and the needs of our community. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey. The information you provide will be confidential and you will/cannot be identified. Your input will help us with our program planning for the next three years. To take the survey, please go to the link below: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/T6K8G9N.


MassHire is now hosted in a satellite office in North Adams every Tuesday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at 85 Main Street, Suite 2, North Adams, MA (within the BCAC Office) to offer nearby support to residents of North County by appointment. 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


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. All of this information and a fillable online form to request housing support is also available on the BCRHA website: https://bcrha.com


Housing Navigator MA,Inc. is a tech nonprofit that aims to connect housing, tech, and design. Working with owners and public sector partners, we’ve built a database of income-restricted rentals from all over the state. Our work aims to connect people to a place called home by expanding access to affordable rental housing in MA through our work with 40+ owners who list their properties with us.For more information or to explore the site please visit https://housingnavigatorma.org

 

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. 


North Adams Public Schools is establishing a roster of volunteers for a variety of opportunities in grades PK-12. Volunteer opportunities will vary with regard to time commitment and age groups of students that volunteers will work with. Opportunities can be tailored to meet all interests of all parties and can be short-term or longer-term commitments. Even if you are only available for only a few hours a year, opportunities that are low-commitment but high-impact arise all the time! We will reach out as matching volunteer positions become available. We ask any interested parties to complete this form. If you have questions about the questionnaire or volunteering with NAPS, please email familysupports@napsk12.org.


The Berkshire Food Project is now hosting indoor dining

on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11:30 to 1 p.m. We have two

highly experienced food service professionals on staff with chef

credentials, and the food is amazing. Come and see! All are welcome!


Berkshire Bounty is a food rescue organization dedicated to collecting, purchasing and delivering nutritious food to emergency food distribution programs countywide. We build capacity, close gaps and improve the quality of food for the food insecure population.

We are seeking volunteers to pick up food from retailers and deliver to food access sites in North County. Volunteers use their own vehicles and commit to a specific day/time and route. See website for more information and to register: https://www.berkshirebounty.org/volunteer


Northern Berkshire Adult Education, located at Drury High School, has openings for adult education, GED preparation, and college and career support classes. Offering morning, afternoon, evening, and remote class options. Prepare to take and pass your GED tests, and get ready to enroll in post-secondary education or career development. Contact our Program Director, Annie Pecor at (413) 412 - 1118 or apecor@napsk12.org and visit us online at https://www.napsk12.org/page/adult-basic-education.


The Collaborative for Educational Services has a number of upcoming virtual Youth Mental Health First Aid Trainings. You can register here: https://www.collaborative.org/event/youth-mental-health-blended/ Participants will complete 2 hours of self-paced work in advance of the YMHFA class. The individual work will be followed up by a 4 ½ hour group class that will be held online.


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)


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.


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

 

Food Access and Distribution Sites

FOOD PANTRIES & MEAL SITES

Download a PDF of county-wide food pantry and meal site resources here. (Updated June 1, 2023) En Espanol

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.
  • 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 MEAL SITE | MON./WED./THURS./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

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & ANNOUCEMENTS

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)
  • Free at home test kits here: https://special.usps.com/testkits. Many expiration dates have been extended. For a list of updated expiration dates: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/home-otc-covid-19-diagnostic-tests#list
  • 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.


  • 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

  • Northern Berkshire Adult Education, located at Drury High School, has openings for adult education, GED preparation, and college and career support classes. Offering morning, afternoon, evening, and remote class options. Prepare to take and pass your GED tests, and get ready to enroll in post-secondary education or career development. Contact our Program Director, Annie Pecor at (413) 412 - 1118 or apecor@napsk12.org and visit us online at https://www.napsk12.org/page/adult-basic-education.
  • 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.
61 Main Street, Suite 218
North Adams. MA 01247
Tel: (413) 663-7588 | Fax: (413) 663-9877
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