Free COVID-19 test kits available
Every U.S. household can again place an order to receive four free COVID-19 rapid test kits delivered to their home. To order, visit https://www.covid.gov/tests.
Before throwing out tests you think may be expired, check the FDA’s website at tinyurl.com/3d846ewd.
For more information on COVID-19, visit the Harvard Board of Health’s COVID-19 webpage at harvard-ma.gov/board-health/pages/covid-19.
Town Meeting is Oct. 21
Town Meeting will take place Saturday, Oct. 21, noon, at the Bromfield School’s Cronin Auditorium.
Deer season
Controlled archery deer hunting on conservation land starts Oct. 2 on the Daman/Stephenson land, east of Interstate 495; otherwise, the season opens Oct. 16. Learn more at tinyurl.com/yeykcj7k.
Cultural Council accepting applications
The Harvard Cultural Council is accepting fiscal 2024 grant applications for community-based projects. Applications are due Oct. 17. Activities considered for annual grant funding include community gatherings such as concerts, plays, and festivals; arts, science, and environmental education in the schools and at the public library; and projects focusing on local history and diversity, restoration, and preservation. To view a video about how to apply, go to massculturalcouncil.org. To apply, visit massculturalcouncil.smartsimple.com.
Open house at new senior center
Meet the Council on Aging staff and learn about its programs and services, Wednesday, Oct. 4, from 1 to 3 p.m., at the new Harvard Senior Center, 16 Lancaster County Road, with representatives from Harvard’s police and fire departments, Ambulance Service, and Minuteman Senior Services. State Sen. Jamie Eldridge and state Rep. Dan Sena will also appear. Hors d’oeuvres will be served.
Volunteer opportunities
The Select Board is seeking two citizens at large to serve on the newly created Transfer Station Committee, which will review current function, services, and use of the Transfer Station and provide recommendations to ensure its future viability. If interested, fill out the form at harvard.seamlessdocs.com/f/volunteerform.
Other vacancies for volunteers may be found at harvardmaboards.vt-s.net/vt.php. Email questions to Executive Assistant Julie Doucet at jdoucet@ harvard-ma.gov, or phone 978-456-4100 ext. 312.
Help public transit
The Montachusett Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) and the Montachusett Regional Transit Authority (MART) are working to create an Eastern Communities Transit Development Program in Ayer, Devens, Harvard, Lancaster, Littleton, and Shirley. Public input is sought in the form of a survey, which can be found at surveymonkey.com/r/GQXF3DV. The public’s input is critical toward identifying bus stop locations, target populations, and potential barriers within this region.
Flu clinics
The Nashoba Associated Boards of Health’s flu clinic schedule for the 2023-24 flu season can be viewed at harvard-ma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif676/f/uploads/flu_clinic_23_schedule.pdf. The full flu clinic schedule, registration links, and FAQ are posted on NABH’s website at nashoba.org/calendar.
Recycle!
Recycle Your Reusables 2023 takes place Oct. 21, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Ayer Shirley Middle School, 1 Hospital Road, Shirley. Materials accepted include bikes, electronics, household items, mattresses, and musical instruments. Donations for the Loaves & Fishes food pantry will also be accepted.
To volunteer for a three-hour shift, sign up at tinyurl.com/RecycleYourReusables2023; email recycleyourreusables@gmail.com; or phone 413-348-9353.
Flood relief business loans
Following the unprecedented flooding in Leominster and surrounding communities earlier this month, the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation has announced the North Central Emergency Relief Loan program. It provides up to $10,000 with a 1% interest rate with fees waived for eligible businesses. Learn more at tinyurl.com/29xwwdcu.
Assistance is also available through the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce; contact help@northcentralmass.com. Visit the resources page at northcentralmass.com/flood-resources for the latest guidance from local, state, and federal authorities.
Loaves & Fishes pantry
This food pantry, located at 234 Barnum Road, Devens, offers drive-thru access for those needing help with groceries. Hours are first Tuesday of the month, 5 to 7 p.m., and Wednesdays, Fridays, and third Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon. Upcoming dates are Sept. 29 and Oct. 3, 4, and 6. View the full 2023 calendar at tinyurl.com/43ft9d5e. For more information, visit loavesfishespantry.org or tinyurl.com/bdcrjf4k.
Devens noise report
Through Sept. 30: multiple small arms.
Free house number signs
Residents can sign up for a free reflective house number sign to make their driveway more visible to first responders. There are also signs for homes on a shared driveway; sign up with your neighbor. To sign up or report any issues with your sign, email jschoenberg@harvard-ma.gov or call the Council on Aging at 978-456-4120, and provide your name, address, contact number, and an email address. The town asks that residents keep their signs clear of snow and foliage so that they are visible throughout the year.
