Toy drive on Saturday
The Harvard Police Association is bringing back its “Fill the Cruiser” event Saturday, Dec. 17, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the police station, 40 Ayer Road. This year’s event will benefit Clear Path for Veterans New England. Bring new and unwrapped toys for children up to 17 years old. There will also be boxes in the police station lobby until Dec. 16. Phone Trish or Pat at 978-456-8276 with questions.
Gift card drive
The Harvard Police Association will hold its “Fill the Gift Box” event through Dec. 16. The event benefits the CASA Project (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Worcester County, which advocates for abused and neglected children. Gift card donations can be left at the drop-off box in the police station lobby at 40 Ayer Road during business hours. Contact Trish at 978-456-8276 or prouvel@harvard-ma.gov with questions.
Parker Charter School lottery
The F.W. Parker Charter School, a public school in Devens, is now accepting applications for its lottery for the 2023-24 school year (due Feb. 1). There will also be a midyear lottery for this school year (due Jan. 4) for students to start in January 2023. For more information, attend an information session at theparkerschool.org/enrollment.
Commission on Disabilities survey
As part of its self-evaluation and transition planning process, the Harvard Commission on Disabilities is seeking information about residents’ experiences, thoughts, or ideas on the topics of accessibility and inclusion. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires municipalities to review their programs, services, and activities for compliance. The data will be presented to the Select Board. To take the anonymous survey, visit tinyurl.com/54c2nzxn.
Snow and ice removal bylaws
The Department of Public Works reminds residents that town bylaws prohibit the depositing of snow or ice on public ways and sidewalks, and that vehicles must not be parked in a public way so as to hinder snow and ice removal. Read the full text of the bylaws at harvard-ma.gov/home/news/snow-and-ice-removal-bylaw, and contact Tim Kilhart at the DPW at 978-456-4130 or tkilhart@harvard-ma.gov with any questions.
Loaves & Fishes
This food pantry, 234 Barnum Road, Devens, offers drive-thru access on the first Tuesday of the month from 4 to 7 p.m., Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the third Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to noon. (It is closed the Friday prior to the third Saturday of every month.) Upcoming dates are Dec. 17, 21, 28, and 30. For weather-related closings, check loavesfishespantry.org or call 978-772-4627.
Holiday dinner distribution will take place Monday, Dec. 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. Dinner choices will include ham, turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian option, with all the fixings.
Devens noise report
Dec. 1-23: multiple small arms ranges.
