波士頓市長吳弭和麻州長Maura Healey攜手慶祝 Otis小學100%使用清潔能源

波士頓市長吳弭（前）慶祝Otis小學生為首座100%使用清潔能源的學校。
（波士頓市府圖片，Mike Mejia攝）

         (Boston Orange綜合編譯)波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）和麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）1日聯袂參訪東波士頓奧提斯（Otis）小學，慶祝該校以730萬元州市政府補助，完成電氣化與空調設備全面升級，成為波士頓首座改造既有校舍，100%使用清潔能源的學校。

麻州州長Maura Healey和波士頓市長吳弭聯袂慶祝。
（波士頓市府圖片，Mike Mejia攝）

        這座建於1905年的小學，用了波士頓市政府580萬美元，以及麻州清潔能源中心「綠色學校工程」計畫的150萬美元來退進工程。團隊成員拆除了校內舊式化石燃料鍋爐與燃氣供暖設備，全面換裝純電化空氣源熱泵系統與高效率通風過濾設施。

        奧提斯小學因緊鄰羅根（Logan）國際機場與交通幹道而有的噪音與廢氣長期困擾，也藉由這次的能源設備升級，不僅讓教室冬暖夏涼、善空氣品質也顯著改，繞長期承受環境污染的社區得到實質效益。

（波士頓市府圖片，Mike Mejia攝）

        波士頓市府的核心戰略之一，是要在2050年實現淨零碳排，而波士頓公校建築碳排放量高佔全部市有建築的將近一半。2022年5月，波士頓市啟動預算20億美元的「公立學校綠色新政」，並在首期編列6.05億美元用於改造與重修老舊校舍。隔年，吳弭簽署行政命令，規定所有市府新建或重大翻修的公共建築一律禁止安裝天然氣等化石燃料系統，強制採用全電氣化設備。

在奧提斯小學之外，波士頓市府近年也以符合全美高標準LEED鉑金級綠建築的規範，來新建昆士高中。

麻州政府這些年來也透過「綠色學校工程」專項基金，發放數千萬美元，協助全州K-12公立學校升級清潔能源設施。

州府規定資金優先撥給低收入戶學生比例逾40%的弱勢學區，且資金嚴禁用於化石燃料設備，僅能補助地熱、熱泵、太陽能與建築隔熱工程。州府同時協助在地學區對接聯邦《通膨削減法案》的直接支付機制，讓學校安裝太陽能與地熱系統時能獲得30%至50%的聯邦資金折抵，減輕地方財務負擔。

這套去碳化模式已在全州其他學區陸續推廣。法爾茅斯（Falmouth）公立學校取得500萬美元建造大型地熱熱泵系統取代舊式燃油設備；北安普頓高中獲400萬美元升級地熱供暖與製冷系統；伍斯特City View探索學校、阿靈頓Hardy小學與Malden的 Ferryway學校分別取得195萬至273萬美元補助進行空調與熱泵改建；特魯羅中央學校則獲32萬美元興建太陽能車棚供應綠電。

東波士頓奧提斯小學的改建成功，證明百年老建築無須拆除重建即可完成現代化綠能升級。波士頓市府與麻州州府將以該案為基礎，繼續將校園去碳化經驗推廣至全州各公立學校。

出席慶祝會的政要，還包括麻州能源廳廳長Rebecca Tepper，眾議員麥家威(Aaron Michlewitz)，波士頓市府新綠政策及環境委員會主任Oliver Sellers-Garcia等人。

麻州出現第12宗人類感染西尼羅病毒個案

State Health Officials Announce 12th Human Case of West Nile Virus in Massachusetts

 

WNV risk level raised to high in Milton and Quincy 

 

BOSTON (October 2, 2026) – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the 12th human case of West Nile virus (WNV) this year. The individual is a woman in her 60s who was likely exposed in Norfolk County. As a result, the risk level for WNV in Milton and Quincy has been raised to high.

 

Risk levels for WNV continue to be high in Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Malden, Newton, Revere, Somerville, Watertown, and Winthrop. Most of the rest of the state is at moderate risk. The risk from WNV will continue until the first hard frost.

 

DPH announced the state’s first WNV-positive mosquitoes this year on June 16. Since then, 340 mosquito samples have tested positive for WNV so far this season from Barnstable, Berkshire, Bristol, Dukes, Essex, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk, and Worcester counties. There have been no animal cases of WNV reported this year.

 

Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) continues to be detected in mosquitoes in Massachusetts this year. There have been 27 EEE-positive mosquito samples and no human or animal cases so far this year.

 

Surveillance information, including case updates, is updated daily and posted online at the Massachusetts Arbovirus Update web page. DPH encourages everyone to use this online resource regularly to stay informed on risk levels in their community and around the state. 

 

People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes.

 

Avoid Mosquito Bites

Apply Insect Repellent when Outdoors. Use a repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient, such as DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), or oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD) or IR3535) according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.

 

Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning in areas of high risk.

 

Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites. Wearing long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

 

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

Drain Standing Water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty unused flowerpots and wading pools and change the water in birdbaths frequently.

 

Install or Repair Screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly fitting screens on all windows and doors.

 

Protect Your Animals

Animal owners should reduce potential mosquito breeding sites on their property by eliminating standing water from containers such as buckets, tires, and wading pools – especially after heavy rains. Water troughs provide excellent mosquito breeding habitats and should be flushed out at least once a week to reduce mosquitoes near paddock areas. Horse owners should keep horses in indoor stalls at night to reduce their risk of exposure to mosquitoes. Owners should also speak with their veterinarian about mosquito repellents approved for use in animals and vaccinations to prevent WNV and EEE. If an animal is suspected of having WNV or EEE, owners are required to report to the Department of Agricultural Resources, Division of Animal Health by calling 617-626-1795, and to the Department of Public Health by calling 617-983-6800.

 

More information, including all WNV and EEE positive results, is available on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page, which is updated daily, or by calling the DPH Division of Epidemiology at 617-983-6800.

Salem 南區大學23英畝校地破土 將建473戶可負擔住宅

    （Boston Orange編譯）麻州副州長Ｋim Driscoll今（2）日前出席塞勒姆州立大學（Salem SU）南校區動土典禮，宣佈該工程將活化約23英畝閒置校地，分兩期興建473戶全新租賃住宅，為麻州政府推動的「公地建屋」再添新標桿。

    麻州政府指稱，這一發展計劃不僅能有效紓解在地住屋缺口，土地出售收益也將用於回饋大學推動校園現代化，成為打造市府與校方雙贏局面的示範案。

    這開發案的第一期工程「Avalon Salem」，將由 Vivmark Residential 主導，預計今冬開工，興建340戶公寓，其中兩成規劃為可負擔住宅；第二期「Forest River Residences」則由 Winn Development 接棒，提供至少133戶住宅，可負擔住宅比例進一步提高至四成，預計於2028年完工。

    塞勒姆州立大學校長基南（John Keenan）強調，學校是麻州首家釋出大型閒置資產的公立大學，出售所得將全數挹注「SSU BOLD」改建計畫，加速北校區設施升級與減碳目標。麻州政府近年持續擴大公地活化，首年已推進逾5,600戶住宅規劃，全力朝2035年前打造22萬戶新居的目標邁進。

Healey-Driscoll Administration Celebrates Groundbreaking for Nearly 500 New Homes on Salem State South Campus

First phase of major redevelopment will transform surplus state property into new housing while supporting Salem State University’s campus modernization 

SALEM — Today, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll joined state and local officials and development partners Vivmark Residential (formally Avalon Bay Community, Inc.) and WinnDevelopment at Salem State University to celebrate the groundbreaking for nearly 500 new homes to be built on the surplus South Campus.

The redevelopment will transform approximately 23 acres of surplus state-owned land along Harrison Road and Loring Avenue into 473 new rental homes over two phases. The project is part of the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s State Land for Homes initiative, which is accelerating the development of surplus and underutilized public property into new housing across Massachusetts.

 “Today’s groundbreaking is another important step in our work to build more homes and lower housing costs across Massachusetts,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We’re putting state-owned land to work to create nearly 500 new homes in Salem while supporting the future of Salem State. This is exactly the kind of partnership we need to build the housing our communities need and make Massachusetts more affordable.”

 “This groundbreaking represents exactly what our State Land for Homes initiative is designed to accomplish — taking state property that is no longer needed for its original purpose and putting it to work creating homes,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “As a former mayor of Salem and a proud Salem State alum, I know what this campus means to the community. This redevelopment will create hundreds of new homes, support Salem State’s future and make productive use of land that has served generations of students.”

The first phase of development, Avalon Salem, will create 340 new rental homes, 20 percent of which will be made available to households with incomes at or below 80 percent Area Median Income (AMI) and at or below 60 percent AMI. Construction is anticipated to begin this Winter.

The second phase, WinnDevelopment’s Forest River Residences, will bring at least 133 additional homes to the former South Campus. A minimum of 40 percent of those units will be made available affordable to households with incomes at or below 60 percent AMI, and this phase is expected to close in 2028. More information can also be found on the project page.

“Our State Land for Homes initiative is an innovative tool for turning underused public land across Massachusetts into much needed housing,” said Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Juana Matias. “Here in Salem, that means nearly 500 new homes, including affordable options for individuals and families who otherwise might be priced out. The Healey-Driscoll Administration is using every tool available to build more housing, lower costs and give more people the opportunity to stay in the communities they love.”

The redevelopment also advances Salem State University’s efforts to modernize its campus. Proceeds from the sale of the South Campus property will support major capital investments on Salem State’s North Campus as part of SSU BOLD, the university’s long-term effort to consolidate its footprint, and address campus infrastructure needs.

 "Today's event marks another exciting day for Salem State University, and an exciting day for the city of Salem and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts," said Salem State University President John Keenan. "With the help of our partners at DCAMM and with the leadership and support of the Massachusetts legislature, we are the first public campus in the state to surplus a major parcel, allowing the city of Salem to meet its housing needs while also allowing the university to reinvest the sale proceeds in more strategic and much-needed campus infrastructure projects."

“This project is a fantastic example of a thoughtful strategic partnership that aligns multiple state, local, and campus priorities,” said DCAMM Commissioner Adam Baacke. “As a significant component of the State Land for Homes Initiative, it will produce much needed housing for the region in addition to saving on operating expenses for the university, reducing the Commonwealth’s climate impacts, and reinvesting in teaching and learning facilities all while decarbonization the main campus.”  

"Getting started on Avalon Salem marks an exciting milestone — not just for our development team, but for everyone who helped make this possible,” said Senior Vice President of Development at Vivmark Residential, David Gillespie. “This community is a testament to what strong partnerships can achieve, and we can't wait to bring these first 340 apartment homes to life in one of the North Shore's most vibrant cities."

"The redevelopment of Salem State's South Campus, and the partnerships that made it possible, show that the Healey-Driscoll Administration's strategy of repurposing underutilized public property is a powerful tool for meeting the need for quality, affordable housing." said WinnDevelopment President Adam Stein.  

The South Campus redevelopment is part of the Governor Healey’s broader strategy to tackle the housing shortage, lower costs and create more homes in communities across Massachusetts. Through historic housing investments, new tools to support local production and initiatives like State Land for Homes, the administration is working to unlock housing opportunities wherever possible. In its first year, State Land for Homes has already advanced plans for more than 5,600 new homes by putting surplus and underutilized public property to work. More information on the impact of these housing investments can also be seen in the newly launched Capital Report.

The project also follows another recent state and local partnership to unlock housing and preserve historic properties in Salem. In August 2026, DCAMM and the Salem Redevelopment Authority closed on the sale of the former Salem Superior Court and County Commissioners buildings at 32-34 Federal Street to WinnDevelopment. The redevelopment will revitalize the historic buildings while repurposing them for new uses.

The courthouse redevelopment also leverages The Exchange, WinnDevelopment’s 115-unit mixed-income housing development across the street on the former Crescent Lot. The SRA strategically engineered the larger housing development opportunity to complement the reuse of the historic courthouse properties, demonstrating how cooperation among state and local officials and their private partners can result in complementary housing, community development, and historic preservation benefits.

Since taking office, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has made increasing housing production and lowering housing costs a top priority. Governor Healey signed the $5.16 billion Affordable Homes Act, the largest housing bond bill in state history, and released Massachusetts’ first statewide housing plan, which sets a goal of creating 222,000 homes by 2035. Massachusetts added more than 34,500 new homes in 2025, and the administration continues to advance new housing through investments in affordable and public housing, accessory dwelling units, commercial conversions, transit-oriented development and other tools to help communities build more homes

新英格蘭台學聯 2026 迎新. 郭延鐸、鄭安容、陳柏文接正副會長

波士頓經文處教育組組長黃薳玉（中）和台學聯幹部。（周菊子攝）

        （Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓報導）那天「東北暴風雨」（Nor’Easter）來襲，大波士頓郊區Marblehead甚至激起15英尺高巨浪，新英格蘭地區台灣同學聯合會（FTSANE）在大西洋碼頭堡角室（Fort Point Room）的迎新派對，卻有140 多名各校同學，競相猜歌，點唱，“支援前線”，嗨到不行。

新英格蘭地區台灣同學聯合會（FTSANE）迎新派對合影。（周菊子攝）

今年是英格蘭地區台灣同學聯合會成立的20週年，新一屆幹部有會長郭延鐸，副會長鄭安容、陳柏文，以及毛予蘋、邱愷雯、王昱文、蘇筠婷、沈秦宇、粘宇和、沈秦安、林子榕、李佳曄、郭品辰、許亦馨、張芷瑜等幹部團隊。

波士頓經文處教育組組長黃薳玉，波士頓台大校友會會長邱亮德，波士頓台灣影展共會長蔡景全，林致中，這天都是嘉賓。

台學聯（FTSANE）會長郭延鐸歡迎各校同學慶中秋。（周菊子攝）

        協辦這次迎新的波士頓台灣龍舟隊，更是由隊長邱偉哲率領黃彥鈞，郭辰誥，蘇家民，孫育民，以及創隊成員之一的趙家立等人到場助陣。

台學聯迎新報到桌，展示青天白日滿地紅國旗。（周菊子攝）

        在嘉賓致詞中，黃薳玉組長指出，麻州是美國歷史、文化的起源地，也是全美大學院校最密集的一個州，有很多地方值得探索。她鼓勵同學們利用留學時的機會，認識志同道合的好朋友，為將來打下更好基礎，有機會就權充文化大使，向身邊朋友介紹台灣。

經文處教育組組長黃薳玉致詞。（周菊子攝）

        黃薳玉組長還提醒各校同學，麻州和羅德島州和佛蒙特州等州，都已簽訂免試互換駕照協定，同學們只需要到經文處辦一份文件，就可以到各州的汽車監理處(ＲＭＶ)去申辦了。美國各州駕照現在還具有Real ID作用，帶在身邊，有很多方便的地方。此外，近來美國境內局勢並不穩定，她建議同學們出門時把護照，手機帶在身邊，另外把經文處的緊急聯絡電話617-650-9252輸入各人的手機中，以備不時之需。

        波士頓台灣龍舟隊（BTBC）由蘇家民介紹。該隊從2018年成立迄今，現有2艘龍舟，會員600多人，當然並不全是台灣人，還有波士頓本地，以及來自世界各地成員。其中活躍隊員約80人。

波士頓台灣龍舟隊幹部迎新，右起，邱偉哲，黃彥鈞，孫育民，
蘇家民，趙家立，郭辰誥。（周菊子攝）

        每年5到10月，是該隊的水上練習時間，一般會在南車站附近海港區（Seaport )的水域練習，然後會參加在查理士河舉行的香港龍舟賽，在羅德島州的台灣日龍舟賽，以及許多其他地方的比賽。大約10月開始冬訓，在室內用划船機練習，做綜合力量訓練、跑步等。該隊下一次的招新活動，訂在10月10日早上做水上試划。

台大校友會會長邱亮德歡迎眾人參加10月4日的奇觀島之遊。（周菊子攝）

        台大校友會會長邱亮德來美已15年，目前是工程師。他以聚餐，夏季野餐，到奇觀島（Spectacle Island）郊遊，以及5月參加牛頓台灣日活動，賣花生捲冰淇淋等的4張圖片來說明校友會的活動，並歡迎有興趣者參加該會訂10月4日搭船到奇觀島郊遊活動者，可以上臉書搜索GBAANTU報名。

主持人請猜歌詞、歌曲者，即席唱幾句。（周菊子攝）

        這場迎新活動的重頭戲，是分組玩遊戲。在鄭安容、粘宇和、許亦馨、沈秦安、張芷瑜等 5 人主持中，台學聯幹部們設計的活動，包括AI圖片猜詞語、猜歌曲，以及支援前線，用義大利麵跟棉花糖來比賽搭建高度的棉花糖挑戰賽等，現場氣氛在幾名主持人妙語生花，出席同學們激動投入中，熱絡非常。猜歌詞，歌曲時，

我還年輕我還年輕-老王樂隊，青花瓷-周杰倫，擋一根-美秀集團，不為誰而做的歌-林俊傑，突然好想你-五月天，

同學們落落大方的上台演唱。（周菊子攝）

家後-江蕙，倒帶-蔡依林，多遠都要再一起-鄧紫棋，愛我別走-張震嶽，Last Dance-伍佰，人生的歌-黃乙玲，愛人錯過-告五人等台灣近年流行的經典名曲，年輕同學們都幾乎耳熟能詳。主持人要求舉手答題者即興唱幾句時，同學們也都落落大方的走到台前，拿起麥克風，當了幾十秒歌星，其中一、二名同學一開口，讓人驚為天籟，更是立刻博得全場雷動掌聲。

出席同學玩遊戲都很投入。（周菊子攝）

        這場迎新活動，本來是頂多持續到下午三點就要結束，結果許多同學意猶未盡，儘管屋外強風雨勁雨，還是聊到四點半場地方要清掃關門才結束。

現場答題。（周菊子攝）

        麻州大學Amherst分校物理及農業系畢業，創辦了余心樂農莊（Eudaimonia Homestead）的會長郭延鐸，在新英格蘭音樂學院修讀小提琴表演音樂藝術博士的副會長陳柏文，在波士頓大學修讀公共關係的副會長鄭安容，在哈佛大學修讀中小學教育研究所的秘書毛予蘋，目前是斜槓工程師的財務邱愷雯等幹部，會後特地感謝了李錦記，雲茶（YunBrew），喜茶（Heytea），水屋（Mizuya）和水屋抹茶（Mizu Matcha）等贊助，使得這場台學聯迎新更為豐盛。（更新，訂正版）

一個人不好意思唱，又不記得歌詞，拿手機，找搭檔，一起來。（周菊子攝）

排隊報到。（周菊子攝）

追加提問。（周菊子攝）

同學有問題，幹部來回答。（周菊子攝）

波士頓龍舟隊隊長邱偉哲（左），波士頓台灣影展協會共會長蔡景全（右）。
（周菊子攝）

主持人看得也開心。（周菊子攝）

JHONAIQUER JUAN CRUZ 將出任波士頓市ROSLINDALE 鄰里聯絡員

MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES JHONAIQUER JUAN CRUZ AS NEW ROSLINDALE NEIGHBORHOOD LIAISON

BOSTON – Thursday, October 1, 2026 – Mayor Michelle Wu today announced Jhonaiquer Juan Cruz as the new neighborhood liaison for Roslindale within the Office of Neighborhood Services (ONS). ONS plays a crucial role in connecting residents with city services and resources. Within ONS, liaisons have an active, hands-on role in the neighborhood they represent, facilitating resident input on local government matters and ensuring that the appropriate city departments address constituent service requests. They are present at neighborhood meetings and respond to local emergencies, such as fires, to help residents.

“Boston thrives when we build meaningful connections between residents and City Hall, and our neighborhood liaisons are out in the community every day, advocating for residents and ensuring that City services are delivered when they are needed, ” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Jhon’s strong connection to the neighborhood, dedication to his community and leadership experience will be a great asset to Roslindale. As both Mayor and a Roslindale resident, I’m excited to welcome him to this role.”

A longtime Boston resident, Cruz has called Roslindale home for over a decade. Cruz earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Assumption University, where he fostered a passion for public service and community engagement through volunteering and involvement in the Black Diaspora Student Union and the ALANA Network (Asian, Latinx, African, and Native American). A Dominican-American and native Spanish speaker, Cruz is excited to break down language barriers, connecting all Roslindale residents with city resources and opportunities.

“This role is especially meaningful to me because I have a personal connection to the people, families, small businesses, and community spaces that make this neighborhood special– my Godson is an active participant in the Archdale Community Center, my sister operates her hair braiding business in the heart of Roslindale Square,” said Jhonaiquer Juan Cruz, Roslindale Liasion. “ I am excited for the opportunity to give back to the community I call home and look forward to meeting more residents, strengthening existing relationships, and working together to help make Roslindale an even stronger and more connected neighborhood.”

The Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services is led by Executive Director Mohammed Missouri, who works alongside four deputy directors. Deputy directors supervise the liaisons and community engagement specialists who facilitate abutters meetings.

“From growing up in Archdale and his strong connections to the neighborhood, Jhonaiquer will bolster our work to support Roslindale residents and ensure city services are delivered well and on time,” said Mohammed Missouri, Executive Director of Neighborhood Services. “I am thrilled to welcome him to this critical role in the Office of Neighborhood Services.”

Neighborhood liaisons will be present at the Mayor’s Neighborhood Coffee Hours, a unique opportunity to speak directly with the Mayor and staff from City departments about open space and their neighborhoods. If there are inclement weather conditions, the time and location may change to an indoor location and will be reflected on the City events page. Community members can also meet with their designated neighborhood liaisons at weekly office hours in-person every Friday to receive guidance on how to navigate City services.

麻州「一站式社區成長計劃」將斥資3.3億美元 資助 403 項發展計劃建2.7萬套房

 （Boston Orange編譯）麻州政府宣佈，將由「社區一站式成長計畫」（Community One Stop for Growth）發放3.3億美元，資助207個社區、共403個在地經濟發展與住房項目。估計創建住宅2.7萬套，永久工作機會1.3萬個，以及700萬平方英尺商業空間。

州長奚莉（Maura Healey）指出，這是該計畫歷來規模最大的單期撥款，估計可帶動高達246億美元的民間投資。

麻州經濟發展行政辦公室（EOED）、住宅與宜居社區辦公室（HLC）及麻州發展局（MassDevelopment）將聯合執行，統籌這計劃的14項資助管道。住宅與宜居社區秘書長馬蒂亞斯（Juana Matias）指出，這是麻州史上對在地基礎設施的最大筆投資，資金將優先用於鋪設道路、拉設水電管線與土地整地等建房前置工程，為後續房屋與商業開發打下基礎。

獲資助項目分布廣泛，其中36%位於農村社區（獲近7,800萬美元）、50%位於波士頓交通局（MBTA）沿線社區、37%為住房選擇社區，24%則屬於門戶城市（Gateway Cities），更有13個社區首度獲選。

資金由三大主管機關分發至14項細分專案，包含：住房基礎設施計畫（1.097億美元/54項）、麻州基礎設施計畫（1.051億美元/59項）、MBTA社區催化基金（5,110萬美元/24項）、低度利用物業開發計畫（1,730萬美元/35項）、海港經濟委員會資助（1,213萬美元/20項）、農村發展基金（1,000萬美元/48項）、住房選擇資助（695萬美元/27項）、市中心倡議資本資助（490萬美元/42項）、用地預備計畫（461萬美元/15項）、社區規劃資助（390萬美元/43項）、TDI股權投資（175萬美元/11項）、棕地重劃基金（104萬美元/5項）、空置店面活化（58萬美元/12項），以及不動產服務技術協助（55萬美元/8項）。

麻州多位地方首長高度支持這計劃。波士頓獲得6項住宅基礎設施資助；伍斯特市將運用資金拆除舊丹霍姆大樓（Denholm Building）並鋪設綠能科技園區道路；秋河市（Fall River）獲500萬美元打造阿爾登街走廊（Alden Street Corridor）以配合通勤鐵路延伸；傅萊明罕（Framingham）則規劃將現有辦公大樓改建為含平價單位的複合式住宅。

政界與產業代表認為，在通膨與高利率環境下，這筆資金能有效降低開發門檻，帶動民間資本跟進，解決在地住房與就業需求。

Governor Healey Announces $330 Million for Economic Development and Housing Projects Across Massachusetts

Largest Community One Stop for Growth awards round in history will support 27,000 housing units, 13,000 jobs, and more than $24 billion in private investment 

BOSTON – Today, Governor Healey announced $330 million for 403 local economic development and housing projects in 207 communities across Massachusetts through the Community One Stop for Growth. The awards will support more than 27,000 new homes, more than 13,000 permanent jobs, and more than 7 million square feet of new commercial development, while helping unlock an estimated $24.6 billion in private investment. This is the largest amount of One Stop funding issued in a single round in the history of the program.

The Community One Stop for Growth, overseen by the Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED), makes it easier for cities, towns and organizations to access state funding for projects that create housing, strengthen downtowns, prepare sites for development, build construction and support local economic growth. This year’s awards are being delivered through 14 grant programs administered by EOED, the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (HLC), and MassDevelopment.

“We’re investing in communities across Massachusetts to create the housing, jobs and economic growth our state needs,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These awards will turn underused properties into new homes and businesses, strengthen downtowns, create good jobs and unlock billions of dollars in private investment. That means more opportunity for families, workers and businesses in every part of our state.”

“The One Stop makes it easier for communities to access the resources they need to move important local projects forward,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This year, we’re supporting more than 400 projects in every region of Massachusetts, including communities receiving One Stop funding for the first time. These investments respond directly to local priorities and will deliver results for residents across the state.”

Of the 402 projects receiving awards, 36 percent are in a rural community, 24 percent in Gateway Cities, 37 percent in Housing Choice Communities, and 50 percent are in an MBTA Communities. Thirteen communities are receiving a grant through the One Stop for the first time. In total, 207 communities are receiving awards, which is the largest number of communities represented in a single round in the program’s history.

“The Community One Stop helps us partner with cities and towns to support projects that can unlock new investment and create meaningful economic growth,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. “This year’s awards will help communities prepare sites for development, improve infrastructure, bring underused properties back into productive use and support thousands of new jobs and homes across Massachusetts.”

“With these awards, the Healey-Driscoll Administration is making the state’s largest ever investment in local infrastructure to support the development of new housing,” said Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Juana Matias. “This is the roads, water, and site work that has to happen before a single home can be built. These investments unlock housing across the Commonwealth, and we’re thrilled to see local leaders putting them to work.” 

The FY27 One Stop program awards include:

• HousingWorks Infrastructure Program – $109,703,144 awarded to 54 projects

• MassWorks Infrastructure Program – $105,110,000 awarded to 59 projects

• MBTA Community Catalyst Fund – $51,101,991 awarded to 24 projects

• Underutilized Properties Program – $17,302,716 awarded to 35 projects

• Seaport Economic Council Grant Program – $12,133,395 awarded to 20 projects

• Rural Development Fund – $10,000,000 awarded to 48 projects

• Housing Choice Grant Program – $6,950,504 awarded to 27 projects

• Massachusetts Downtown Initiative Capital Grant Program – $4,900,000 awarded to 42 projects

• Site Readiness Program – $4,615,000 awarded to 15 projects

• Community Planning Grant Program – $3,905,693 awarded to 43 projects

• TDI Equity Investment Program – $1,752,404 awarded to 11 projects

• Brownfields Redevelopment Fund – $1,045,000 awarded to five projects

• Massachusetts Vacant Storefront Program – $580,000 awarded to 12 projects

• Real Estate Services Technical Assistance – $550,000 awarded to eight projects

The full list of grant recipients and project descriptions is available here.

“Through One Stop, the state delivers critical funding and technical assistance that goes a long way in helping communities bring transformative economic development projects to life,” said MassDevelopment President and CEO Navjeet Bal. “Our team at MassDevelopment is proud to administer five programs within the One Stop and we look forward to seeing these resources advance housing construction, business growth, and community development across Massachusetts.”

“This program is about creating jobs and investing in our communities — two of our most important responsibilities as elected officials,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I look forward to seeing bolstered economic development across the Commonwealth as a result of these investments, and I’m grateful to Governor Healey and her team for working to make this program a reality.”

“In Massachusetts, we’re serious about growing our housing supply,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “The Community One Stop for Growth is one of our state’s best tools for achieving our ambitious housing goals. This program helps drive hundreds of economic development projects by leveraging billions of dollars in private investment. In my own district, I’m proud that Community One Stop will be supporting the City of Framingham’s effort to convert an existing office building into housing, including affordable units that will benefit our residents—exactly the kind of project we need more of—as well as crucial work in Medway. I’m proud to have supported Community One Stop throughout my career and I’m thankful for all the benefits we see flowing back to our communities.”

About the Community One Stop for Growth

The Community One Stop for Growth is a streamlined application process overseen by the Executive Office of Economic Development that provides easy access and opportunities for cities and towns to apply for more than a dozen state grant programs administered by EOED, the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, and MassDevelopment. Programs in the One Stop offer direct funding and support to economic development projects related to community capacity building, planning and zoning, site preparation, building construction, infrastructure and housing development.

Learn more at mass.gov/onestop. 

麻州長Healey呼籲川普政府加速審查天然氣管道擴建案

    （Boston Orange編譯） 麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）今（1）日致函川普政府，呼籲聯邦加速審查阿爾岡昆（Algonquin）天然氣管道擴建案（即RARE計畫），以為麻州60萬戶天然氣用戶開闢新供應源，每年省下約4,000萬美元電費與氣費負擔，降低州民能源負擔。

    奚莉州長在發給美國能源部長萊特（Chris Wright）的信中強調，麻州正面臨能源需求挑戰，必須採取包含太陽能、風力、核能與天然氣等「全方位」供應策略。RARE計畫主要是升級現有管道設施，相關開發費用全數由業者承擔，不會轉嫁給一般納稅人。她敦促聯邦政府建立明確的時間表並跨部會協調，在確保環境評估與社區溝通品質的前提下盡速完成審查。

    麻州公共事業廳（DPU）已於今年1月批准主要能源公司 Eversource 與阿爾岡昆天然氣管道公司（Algonquin）簽署10年供氣合約。此擴建案可有效減少麻州對高價進口液化天然氣（LNG）的依賴，目前該案正由聯邦能源法規委員會（FERC）進行環境審查中。

Governor Healey Calls on Trump Administration to Expedite Review of Gas Pipeline Expansion

 Project would bring additional gas supply into Massachusetts and lower bills for 600,000 customers

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey today called on the Trump Administration to expedite federal review of the expansion of the Algonquin gas pipeline, known as the Reliable Affordable Resilient Enhancement (RARE) Project, that she has previously supported. The project is expected to provide gas supply to 600,000 gas customers and lower gas bills by $40 million each year.

“I’ve been clear that we need to bring more energy supply into Massachusetts with an all-of-the-above approach that includes solar, wind, storage, nuclear, geothermal, hydro and gas,” said Governor Healey. “This project will lower costs for 600,000 customers, and the development will be paid for by the developer, not ratepayers. Massachusetts is moving forward with its review, and I’m asking the federal government to do the same – move quickly and keep this project on track so customers can see the savings.”

In a letter to U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Governor Healey urged the Trump Administration to move quickly on the federal reviews and permits required for RARE and to establish clear schedules, coordinate across federal agencies and dedicate the resources necessary to keep the project on track. She also emphasized that an expedited timeline should not come at the expense of environmental review or meaningful engagement with affected communities. As an expansion, most of the construction work will involve upgrading infrastructure already in place.  

In January, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) approved two 10-year agreements between Eversource gas utilities and Algonquin to deliver new gas supplies to customers. 

The additional gas supply is expected to reduce reliance on higher-cost imported liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the Everett LNG Terminal, resulting in $40 million in direct savings per year. The project is currently undergoing federal environmental review through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

The Huntington劇院訂 2027 世界首演《出格》（Unorthodox） 現公開徵求在地演員

         （Boston Orange編譯）亨廷頓劇院（The Huntington）將推出改編自《紐約時報》暢銷自傳《出格》（Unorthodox: The Scandalous Rejection of My Hasidic Roots）的全新音樂劇，預定2027年5月在波士頓做世界首演。即日起公開招募在地演員，獲選者將於2026年10月20日參加試鏡。

        這齣戲匯聚百老匯頂尖創作者，編劇為曾以《法蘭西共和國祈禱文》（Prayer for the French Republic）入圍東尼獎的喬書亞・哈蒙（Joshua Harmon），詞曲由曾創作電影《大娛樂家》與音樂劇《致埃文·漢森》（Dear Evan Hansen），包辦艾美獎（Emmy）、葛萊美獎（Grammy）、奧斯卡獎（Oscar）、東尼獎（Tony）這美國四大娛樂獎項（EGOT）的本吉・帕塞克（Benj Pasek），以及曾以音樂劇《參政婦女》（Suffs）兩度獲得東尼獎的莎伊納・陶布（Shaina Taub）共同操刀。曾執導《魔法黑森林》（Into the Woods）的喬丹・費恩（Jordan Fein）將出任導演。曾獲東尼獎「最佳區域劇院」的波士頓亨廷頓劇院將負責製作。

        《出格》描繪的故事，聚焦紐約布魯克林的極端保守猶太社群，以17歲女孩迪沃莉（Devoiri）面對包辦婚姻，和六十年前隻身赴美的祖母弗雷達（Fraida），一人選擇融入虔誠信仰，另一人則試圖掙脫束縛所交織出的平行人生，來深度刻畫女性在自我實現與家庭間的抉擇。

        藝術總監洛雷塔・格雷科（Loretta Greco）表示，這是一齣深刻且震撼人心的作品。

        《出格》預定於2027年5月6日至6月6日在波士頓亨廷頓劇院登場。有意參演者，即日起可至官網huntingtontheatre.org/auditions，或寄信至 casting@huntingtontheatre.org 報名。

THE HUNTINGTON ANNOUNCES BOSTON-AREA AUDITION CALL FOR 
HARMON, PASEK, AND TAUB WORLD PREMIERE MUSICAL UNORTHODOX

Local performers are invited to submit headshots and resumes to The Huntington in Boston 

for the opportunity to be among the original cast of a major new musical.

 

(BOSTON) – The Huntington is inviting Greater Boston performers to submit materials to be considered for a Boston local audition call for upcoming new musical Unorthodox, based on the New York Times best-selling memoir by Deborah Feldman. This is a rare opportunity for performers to be part of the original cast of this world premiere directed by Jordan Fein (Into the Woods at London’s Bridge Theatre) and crafted by Broadway icons Joshua Harmon (Tony nominee, Prayer for the French Republic), Benj Pasek (EGOT winner, Dear Evan Hansen and The Greatest Showman), and Shaina Taub (two-time Tony-winner, Suffs).

 

This search marks a unique opportunity for The Huntington, one of Boston’s leading professional theatres and recipient of the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, to discover extraordinary talent and uplift new voices. 

 

“Every once in a blue moon, a true theatrical event comes along. And if you’re especially lucky, it also marks the birth of something thrilling, meaningful, and true,” says Huntington Norma Jean Calderwood Artistic Director Loretta Greco. “The joining of musical theater visionaries Benj Pasek and Shaina Taub with one of our great living playwrights, Joshua Harmon, collaborating for the first time together to create a musical adaptation of Unorthodox is one such moment. What they’ve crafted is an urgent, intimate, and soul-stirring story of two women discovering who they are and what world they want to forge for their children. I have no doubt this extraordinary new musical, directed by the incredible Jordan Fein, will resonate far beyond our walls, and you’ll be able to say you experienced it here first.”

 

More information about auditions and submitting materials can be found at huntingtontheatre.org/auditions. Artists can submit headshots and resumes to casting@huntingtontheatre.org. Select artists will be invited to audition at the local audition call on October 20, 2026. 

 

The Huntington’s production of Unorthodox will run at the Huntington Theatre in Boston (264 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115) from May 6 – June 6, 2027. More information can be found at huntingtontheatre.org/whats-on/unorthodox

「富比士」2026年度400大富豪榜揭曉. 麻州 7人再上榜 4名百大榜

         （Boston Orange編譯）《富比士》（Forbes）日前公佈2026年美國前400大富豪榜，總資產達創紀錄的8兆美元。麻州共有7人上榜，全是榜上常客，其中4人擠身百大，3人來自富達投資（Fidelity），另1人為新英格蘭愛國者球隊（Patriot）東主Robert Kraft。

        總部位於麻州昆士市的「花崗岩電信」（Granite Telecommunications）執行長赫爾（Rob Hale）再度上榜，以65億美元身價在全美富豪榜上排名第261，成為麻州南岸地區的代表人物。

        《富比士》400大富豪榜，今年門檻大幅提升，個人資產至少44億美元，才能上榜，其中有34名新人。

        麻州今年上榜的7名億萬富豪，榜首仍為為富達投資（Fidelity Investments）執行長艾比姬爾強森（Abigail Johnson），身價高達416億美元，名列全美第25。富達家族管房地產投資的Edward Johnson IV以163 億美元排名第 73 名，Elizabeth Johnson則以144億美元排名第89。

        新英格蘭愛國者隊老闆羅伯克拉夫特（Robert Kraft）則以152億美元排名第81。

        現年60歲的赫爾事業版圖橫跨電信與房產，不僅身兼FoxRock房產公司總裁，也是波士頓凱爾特人隊（Celtic）的小股東。他的財富比去年成長7億美元，旗下房產公司在昆士市開發多處大型住宅與醫療中心，擁有超過500萬平方英尺的商業地產。

另外2名麻州上榜者為體育用品公司「新平衡（New Balance）」的東主Jim Davis家族，以67億美元排名第256位，以及前有線電視巨頭 Pilot House的創投主席Amos Hostetter, Jr.，以44億美元排名第380。

在這榜單上，特斯拉（Tesla）執行長馬斯克(Elon Musk)以8,390億美元蟬聯美國首富。他擁有Space X 38%的股份。

亞馬遜創辦人貝佐斯(Jeff Bezos)以3,780億美元位，屈居世界第二。

Google母公司Alphabet的控股人及董事，拉里佩奇（Larry Page）則以2,780億美元名列第三。

麻州500萬美元未來教師獎助款 11/20 前接受申請

Healey-Driscoll Administration Opens Applications for $5 Million in Scholarships for Future Teachers

Scholarships will help public higher education students prepare for careers in teaching 

 
BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced that applications are open for $5 million in scholarships through the Tomorrow’s Teachers Scholarship Program (TTSP), to help students at Massachusetts four-year public colleges and universities pursue careers as teachers. The program is part of the administration’s efforts to grow and diversify the state’s educator workforce and reduce financial barriers to entering the teaching profession.

Eligible students enrolled in approved educator preparation programs at the state’s public four-year colleges and universities can receive scholarships of up to $25,000 through TTSP. Applications for the Tomorrow’s Teachers Scholarship are open through November 20. TTSP also provides $7,500 in student loan repayment assistance to eligible educators, with applications for that portion of the program opening in April.

 “Our teachers do incredible work every day to help students learn, grow and succeed, and we need to make it easier for more people to enter this important profession,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We’ve made historic investments to lower the cost of higher education, and the Tomorrow’s Teachers Scholarship builds on that work by helping aspiring teachers afford their education, get into the classroom and serve students across Massachusetts.”

“Teachers are at the heart of strong schools and strong communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We want more people to see a future for themselves in education and have the support they need to get into the classroom. The Tomorrow’s Teachers Scholarship Program is helping us build that pipeline and prepare more talented teachers to serve students in communities across Massachusetts.”

In total, $10 million is available this year through TTSP for scholarships and loan repayment assistance for current and future educators. Since the program launched in 2023, Massachusetts has awarded scholarships to more than 700 students preparing to become educators and provided loan repayment assistance to more than 100 educators.

“There are talented people across Massachusetts who want to become teachers, and we need to make it easier for them to get into the classroom,” said Education Secretary Steve Zrike. “The Tomorrow’s Teachers Scholarship Program removes one of the biggest barriers by helping students afford the education and preparation required to become a teacher. It’s one part of our broader work to create more accessible pathways into the profession and build an educator workforce that reflects the students and communities we serve.”

TTSP is available to eligible students enrolled full time in approved, undergraduate or post-baccalaureate educator preparation programs at Massachusetts’ public colleges and universities. Scholarship funds can help cover expenses included in the cost of attendance, such as tuition, fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation, child care, and personal expenses.

TTSP is a repayment-through-service scholarship program. Recipients commit to becoming licensed educators and teaching in a Massachusetts public school after completing their education. Each year of scholarship funding received requires one year of teaching service, and recipients must become employed as a teacher of record, with primary responsibility for students’ learning in a subject, grade or course, within 12 months of completing their degree or eligible post-baccalaureate coursework.

“Massachusetts is making historic investments to ensure that cost does not stand in the way of students pursuing the careers our communities need most,” said Commissioner of Department of Higher Education Noe Ortega. “The Tomorrow’s Teachers program makes a career in education more accessible for the next generation of teachers while providing tangible financial support to educators who continue to do this essential work in classrooms across the Commonwealth.”

“Great schools depend on great teachers, and we need to provide aspiring educators with a clear and affordable pathway to enter and stay in the profession,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez. “When we help people become teachers, we’re investing directly in our public schools and students.”

The Tomorrow’s Teachers Scholarship Program is part of the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s broader efforts to make higher education more affordable and strengthen the educator workforce. Massachusetts has doubled state financial aid in recent years, investing more than $400 million annually in programs, including one of the most comprehensive free community college programs in the country, as well as free tuition and fees at public two- and four- year colleges and universities for low-income students, and allowances for books and supplies.

The administration is also expanding pathways into the teaching profession and working to diversify the educator workforce. Earlier this year, Massachusetts launched its first Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Programs, providing aspiring educators with no-cost paid, on-the-job training, coursework and mentorship. In August, the administration awarded an additional $250,000 to 10 school district partnerships to develop new teacher apprenticeship programs serving 16 districts. The state has also made alternative assessments to the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) permanent, providing aspiring educators with additional ways to demonstrate their knowledge and skills while maintaining state standards for licensure.

TTSP is one of several Massachusetts financial aid programs supporting current and aspiring educators. This year, the administration also launched the first-ever Early Childhood Educator Loan Repayment Program, which included nearly $1.8 million in student loan repayment awards for 248 early educators and staff across Massachusetts. The state also offers scholarships to paraprofessional educators who want to continue their education and become teachers, as well as In Demand Scholarships for students in behavioral health fields.

Massachusetts students interested in applying for a scholarship through TTSP should first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) and then create or log in to their MASSAid Student Portal account to complete the TTSP application. Additional eligibility requirements, program details, participating institutions, and application information are available through the Massachusetts Office of Student Financial Assistance. Information about financial aid programs offered to current or aspiring educators is available at OSFA’s Quick Guide for current or aspiring educators.

“If public education is the fertile ground where our Commonwealth's success takes root, then our teachers are irreplaceable as the ones who tend and nurture that growth every day," stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “I'm proud that the Legislature dedicated Fair Share funding to support the Tomorrow’s Teachers Scholarship Program, which is a direct investment in our educators. By removing financial barriers to entering the classroom, we are building a stronger, more diverse educator workforce and ensuring Massachusetts schools continue to thrive.”

“The House is proud to have led the effort establishing and funding this vital teacher pipeline program," said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). "As a former teacher, I know how important it is to support students who want to enter the profession and make sure talented educators have the support they need to succeed.”

“It has never been more crucial to incentive quality applicants to become teachers in the Commonwealth. By making these investments we will not only make higher education more affordable, it will also strengthen the Commonwealth’s educator workforce,” said Rep. Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means (D-Boston). “I’m grateful to Governor Healey and her administration for the commitment to this critical program, and to Speaker Mariano and my colleagues in the Legislature for their leadership and commitment to making it a reality.”

“The Legislature is using Fair Share revenue from the state’s wealthiest earners to fund the Tomorrow’s Teachers Scholarship Program to encourage more young educators to stay and work in Massachusetts,” said Senator Jason Lewis, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “These scholarships and loan forgiveness repayments will help promote a larger and more diverse group of educators to join the workforce.”

“A strong and diverse educator workforce is essential to the success of our schools and the students we serve across the Commonwealth,” said Representative Ken Gordon, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “This scholarship program is important because it invests in the next generation of teachers and helps ensure our students have the dedicated, talented educators they deserve.”

“Massachusetts’ state universities have a long history of preparing outstanding teachers who go on to serve students and communities across the Commonwealth,” said Mary Grant, Chair of the Massachusetts State Universities Council of Presidents and President of MassArt. “This key financial support makes that pathway more affordable and accessible, helping students turn their commitment to education into a meaningful career.”

大波士頓僑界訂10/3 為慶祝中華民國成立115週年遊行、升旗

紐英崙中華總會已爲波士頓華埠街道以掛出青天白日滿地紅國旗。
（周菊子攝）

     （Boston Orange 綜合報導）大波士頓地區慶祝中華民國115年國慶，將以10月3日為重心，從遊行，升旗，書畫展，一直到晚上餐會，安排有一系列活動。

黃紹培（左）協助中華書法會會長黃周麗桃（右）為雙十國慶書畫展做準備，
把書法長軸掛出來。（周菊子攝）

    大波士頓華埠主要街道，包括必珠街（Beach），乞臣街（Hudson），泰勒街（Tyler）和夏利臣街（Harrison），從9月15日起，已由紐英崙總會安排，掛滿代表中華民國的青天白日滿地紅國旗，以及代表美國的星條旗。

    10月3日將是重頭戲，早上10點15分，在華埠「天下為公」牌樓前集合，預定12點抵達波士頓市府廣場，舉行升旗典禮，以及文化表演。

    接著下來，在紐英崙中華公所有主要由中華書法會承辦的書畫展。中華書法會會長黃周麗桃透露，現場將展出多幅本地書法家收藏或自行揮就的書法作品。

    紐英崙中華公所主席雷國輝，核數伍振中，紐英崙中華總會會長余麗媖，以及波士頓僑教中心主任康雅雄，日前都在黃紹培協助中華書法會掛展出作品時，到場幫忙。

    10月3日下午5點開始，在華埠帝苑大酒樓，將有紐英崙中華總會與榮光會合辦的全僑慶祝雙十餐會。

    國民黨波士頓常委張韻蘭透露，10月3日遊行，升旗結束後，波士頓黨部同仁將回到華埠乞臣街會址聚餐，舉行黨部的雙十慶祝會。

    紐英崙中華公所舉辦的第五屆雙十國慶盃乒乓球賽，將於10月4日舉行。

    波士頓經文處主辦的雙十國慶酒會，將於10月5日晚在波士頓是海港區的洲際酒店（InterContinental Boston）舉行。（訂正版）

Office of Problem Gambling Services Expands Support for People Affected by Gambling Harm During Recovery Month

Office of Problem Gambling Services Expands Support for People Affected by Gambling Harm During Recovery Month

 

New mobile app aids state’s helpline in providing 24/7 support to problem gamblers, their families

 

BOSTON (September 30, 2026) — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s (DPH) Office of Problem Gambling Services (OPGS) today announced an expansion of recovery supports for people affected by gambling harm, introducing a new mobile application that will be available alongside the Massachusetts Problem Gambling Helpline beginning this month in recognition of National Recovery Month.

 

The new mobile app strengthens the state’s recovery continuum by offering a digital space where individuals can connect with others and begin rebuilding healthier habits, one step at a time. Through daily check‑ins, progress tracking, and evidence‑based lessons, the app provides practical tools that help people reduce harm, regain control of their lives, and move toward long‑term recovery. The app’s peer support features also create connection for those who may feel isolated or unsure about taking the next step toward treatment.

 

This new resource is designed for people who may not yet feel ready for clinical services but are seeking a safe, supportive way to start making changes. It adds another pathway into recovery — one that meets people where they are and helps them move forward at their own pace.

 

“Gambling harm is a public health issue, and it reaches far beyond the person placing the bet,” said Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. “Meeting people where they are means meeting them on the devices they already carry. Massachusetts has been deliberate about building a response grounded in evidence and in the experience of the people it serves, and this is the next step in that work for the Office of Problem Gambling Services.”

 

Observed each September since 1989, National Recovery Month recognizes the millions of people living in recovery from substance use and mental health conditions, and the community and clinical support that makes that recovery possible. Gambling disorder belongs in that conversation: it carries the same patterns of stigma and isolation, and the same evidence that recovery is possible when support is available and sustained.

 

The timing of the app’s rollout is deliberate. September marks the start of football season, a stretch of months that represents a significant increase in gambling engagement. It is the season when a quiet strain becomes harder to carry, and when the people around a person experiencing gambling harm begin looking for somewhere to turn.

 

For many people, the hardest moment is not only the decision to seek help but also the environment in which they find themselves — late at night, after a loss, when no appointment is scheduled, and they find themselves alone. The mobile app becomes a resource for people to connect and engage and begin their recovery journey.

 

“Recovery is not one decision. It is a series of moments when someone needs a door and finds one open,” said Victor Ortiz, Director of the Office of Problem Gambling Services at DPH. “For 10 years, we’ve listened closely to people living this experience. They’ve told us, time and again, that support needs to be there around the clock. What we’re offering now is a direct response to what they’ve asked for. It doesn’t replace the helpline — it extends it, so people feel supported whenever they need us.”

 

Helpline support continues in multiple languages

 

The Massachusetts Problem Gambling Helpline continues to offer assistance in Spanish and additional languages at no cost and in confidence, at 800-327-5050. The new mobile tool will launch in English.

 

How to get support

 

Massachusetts Problem Gambling Helpline: 800-327-5050. Free, confidential, multilingual, available 24/7. Online chat at MAProblemGamblingHelpline.org.

 

The new mobile support tool, Evive, is available for download at no cost on iOS and Android.