We are so very pleased to announce that the Worcester County Probate Court just approved the use of the Bromfield House for our Afghan friends. We would like to thank the Harvard Select Board, town administrators, and town counsel for their work in approving and facilitating this. We are also very grateful to state Sen. Jamie Eldridge and his dedicated staff for their continued support and for filing an amicus brief.
In December, Friendly Crossways was rented for these families, but it was not available after April 25. Bishop McManus and Father Kilcoyne of Holy Trinity Parish kindly offered the Bolton Parish Center, but only until fall classes resumed. We are beyond grateful to them and also to the Harvard Public Schools for transporting and educating the kids.
We also appreciate the generosity of the Harvard Unitarian, Harvard Congregational, and St. Andrews Episcopal churches. The Congregational Church also hosts a shop with clothing for the families and others.
Thanks are due to all who have helped our friends from Afghanistan to truly become part of our community, including:
- The Lions Club and Fivesparks for inviting the families to participate in their activities.
- The friends of Afghan families for inviting children to play dates, and for including adults in social events.
- Community members who helped the families learn English, shop, learn to drive, and get to work.
Carlson Orchards, The Hyve at Fruitlands Café, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Jabil at Devens have all hired members of these Afghan families. One man is still looking for employment. Please let us know of any local job openings you hear about.
But there is more to do.
Please join us in making the Bromfield House a home. We need to clean, paint, and make minor renovations. We also need volunteers to help with the out-of-school education efforts and transportation support. If you would like to help, please send an email to harvardnst@gmail.com
We are grateful to our entire community. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Have a wonderful summer, and if you haven’t tried the Hyve at Fruitlands or the Carlson Orchards Cider Barn Taproom, you should!
Terry Symula on behalf of the
Harvard Neighborhood Support Team
