Governor Healey Signs Budget That Prioritizes Affordability, Vaccine and Health Care Access, and Public Safety

Governor Healey Signs Budget That Prioritizes Affordability, Vaccine and Health Care Access, and Public Safety 

BOSTON — Today, Governor Maura Healey signed a Fiscal Year 2025 closeout supplemental budget that prioritizes affordability, vaccine and health care access, and public safety in our communities. The $2.3 billion budget reduces costs for families, including through universal school meals and financial aid in higher education.  

This budget continues Massachusetts’ leadership to ensure access to vaccines, including childhood immunizations. It adopts Governor Healey’s proposal to expand flexibility for the Department of Public Health (DPH) to set immunization schedules and requirements in Massachusetts, including for the Childhood Vaccine Program. Now, if the federal government fails to maintain a robust schedule of vaccine recommendations, DPH can set independent standards for Massachusetts. 

The bill also protects health care access by supporting public health hospitals, abortion providers at risk of losing federal funding, and a new information campaign to educate MassHealth members about new federal work requirements.  

The budget also enhances public safety across the state. It criminalizes the false impersonation of a federal official, including ICE agents. It adopts Governor Healey’s proposal to support law enforcement officers – ensuring that State Police troopers permanently injured in the line of duty receive their full compensation as pension until they reach retirement age. 

Governor Healey also signed a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures for federal workers who were impacted by the federal shutdown and took executive action to extend it for 75 days until Jan. 26, 2026. This was a proposal by Senator Lydia Edwards. 

“This budget represents our commitment to delivering for people on what matters in their lives,” said Governor Healey. “It will make things more affordable, promote vaccine and health care access for our kids and families in the face of attacks from the federal government, and protect public safety in our communities. While President Trump is increasing costs and cutting funding from states, this budget is balanced and protects taxpayer dollars. I’m grateful for the partnership of the Legislature as we continue to move our state forward.” 

“With the next fiscal year well underway, it is critical that we close the books on FY25 with a balanced budget that delivers for Massachusetts communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This bill reflects our commitment to responsibly managing state spending and stretching every dollar in service of Massachusetts residents.” 

"In Massachusetts, we are focused on fiscal responsibility,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew J. Gorzkowicz. “We appreciate the Legislature’s partnership in closing the books on FY25 with a balanced budget and helping to build reserves that set the state up for future budget sustainability."  

“This supplemental budget responds to actions at the federal level, makes timely investments across a wide range of issue areas, including for free school meals, for MassHealth, and for the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, and ensures greater accountability and efficiency across critical sectors of government,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Governor Healey for signing this bill into law, along with my colleagues in the Legislature for supporting this legislation.” 

"This budget takes important steps to protect our residents and defend our values,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Our message is clear: while the federal government plays games with people’s livelihoods and health, Massachusetts stands firmly on the side of providing our residents and communities the support they need, whether through funding success for our college students, protecting vaccine access, or shining a light on those hurt by state run institutions. I applaud Governor Healey for signing this legislation and I am grateful to Senate Ways and Means Chair Rodrigues for his work, each Senator for their support, and Speaker Mariano and our colleagues in the House for the collective effort to deliver this legislation for residents." 

“This supplemental budget will close the books on FY25 in a balanced and fiscally responsible manner. By making critical investments into much needed programs in healthcare, education, and housing to name a few, the Commonwealth will be in a strong fiscal position for FY26 and beyond,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means (D-Boston). “I want to thank Speaker Mariano, and all my colleagues in the Legislature for supporting this initiative. I also want to thank Governor Healey for her timely approval of this critical funding package." 

“With the Governor’s signing of the Fiscal Year 2025 closeout supplemental budget, we have effectively closed the books on FY25 with a fiscally responsible $2.31 billion spending plan,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “The budget addresses several outstanding health care deficiencies, most notably $1.67 billion for MassHealth, with a net cost of $303 million after accounting for federal reimbursements. We also satisfy Steward hospital payment obligations, and provide $10 million for Health Care For All, funding that will launch an important public awareness campaign informing vulnerable populations on new Medicaid work requirements. This plan also reins in county sheriff spending and provides $10 million to support the 2026 World Cup. I would like to thank my colleagues in both branches of the Legislature, and the Governor and her team for working collaboratively on this budget that meets the needs of all residents of the Commonwealth.” 

“Massachusetts has taken an important step forward with the passage of this historic legislation,” said Senator Lydia Edwards, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary and original filer of the Federal Worker and Service Member Civil Relief Act. “This is more than a policy win — it is a promise to thousands of federal workers and service members that we see them, we value them, and we will protect their dignity during any future shutdown. My sincere thanks go to Senate President Spilka, Speaker Mariano, Chairs Rodrigues and Michlewitz, and Governor Healey for their unwavering support. Their leadership reflects the best of state government: bipartisan, thoughtful, and centered on fairness.” 

Additionally, this budget bill deploys $100 million in excess Fair Share funds for the Student Opportunity Act in schools across Massachusetts. It also invests $18.3 million for financial aid and stipends for public higher education students in FY26.  

The budget also includes a proposal by Governor Healey to make state institutional records that are over 75 years old public. This language aligns with recommendations from the Special Commission on State Institutions, and it will make these records easier for loved ones and historians to access while respecting patient privacy concerns. 

Additional investments in the budget include: 

• $60.7 million for snow and ice removal 
• $50 million for housing preservation and stabilization 
• $18.5 million for public health hospital operations 
• $18.3 million for student financial aid assistance 
• $14 million for Section 35 treatment services for Western Massachusetts 
• $12 million for Universal School Meals 
• $10 million to support operations at the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) to ensure access to anti-hunger programs by responding to changes made by the federal government to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program. 
• $10 million to support a Health Care for All information campaign on Medicaid work requirements and vaccine policy changes made by the federal government 
• $10 million for the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center to support the implementation of the Life Sciences Initiative 3.0, which invests in the Massachusetts life science research and innovation ecosystem 
• $10 million to support costs and tourism associated with hosting the 2026 World Cup 
• $7.2 million for Department of Correction (DOC) Facilities operations 
• $5 million for direct supports to reproductive health providers at risk of losing federal funding 

2026新英格蘭新聞獎學金即起接受申請

2026 New England Journalism Scholarships Now Open — Up to $2,000 Available Woburn, MA — The Journalism Education Foundation of New England (JEFNE) is once again opening the door for the next generation of reporters, editors, photographers, and multimedia storytellers. Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 New England Journalism Scholarship Program, offering scholarships of up to $2,000 to outstanding student journalists across the region. Administered by the New England Newspaper & Press Association, this annual program supports up to ten high-potential students who are committed to pursuing a career in journalism or a related field. The program also includes the prestigious MacGregor Fiske Award, presented each year to an exceptional student journalist who demonstrates great promise in the profession. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and undergraduate students who are residents of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, or Vermont. Applicants will be required to submit a cover letter, transcript, résumé or biography, letter of recommendation, and a portfolio of at least three published or class-produced journalism pieces. Full application details and links are available on the NENPA website.  To be considered, a completed application must be submitted by March 27, 2026. Please review the qualifications below. For any questions or more information, contact students@nenpa.com.  Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in your journalism future — apply and take the next step toward shaping the news landscape in New England.  Journalism Scholarship Program Information https://www.nenpa.com/scholarships/  Journalism Scholarship Application: https://www.nenpa.com/scholarship-application/

Qualifications for JEFNE Scholarships  Must be a resident of New England (CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, or VT). Applicants may attend a college or university outside New England — residency determines eligibility, not school location. Must be a high school senior or undergraduate college student planning to attend college in Fall 2026, studying journalism or a related field. Currently, we do not accept graduate students. Must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Must demonstrate a strong interest in a journalism career by submitting: Cover letter Transcript Résumé or biography Letter of recommendation Must submit a minimum of three pieces of published or class-produced journalistic work. You will receive an email confirming receipt of your application, including a link to a Dropbox folder where you will upload your materials.

波士頓市長吳弭訂12/4點亮波士頓廣場聖誕樹

MAYOR MICHELLE WU TO HOST 84TH ANNUAL BOSTON COMMON TREE LIGHTING ON DECEMBER 4

BOSTON - Tuesday, November 25, 2025 - Mayor Michelle Wu, the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, and The Province of Nova Scotia will host Boston’s signature holiday celebration, the 84th annual Boston Common Tree Lighting, on Thursday, December 4, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Boston Common, adjacent to the Visitor’s Information Center at 139 Tremont Street. Mayor Wu will be joined by Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston, marking the 54th year that Nova Scotia has given a tree to the people of Boston as thanks for relief efforts following the December 6, 1917 explosion of a munitions ship in Halifax Harbor. Within 24 hours of the disaster, a train loaded with supplies and emergency personnel traveled from Boston to Nova Scotia to aid in recovery efforts. Earlier this month, Mayor Wu visited Nova Scotia to highlight the partnership between the City of Boston and the Province of Nova Scotia. During her visit, Mayor Wu participated in the annual Tree for Boston tree cutting ceremony as the first Boston Mayor to attend and participate in the event.  “Each year this special gift from Nova Scotia reinforces the neighborly bond that our communities have shared for over a century, and reminds us of the true meaning of the holiday spirit,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I look forward to joining families from across Boston and our guests from Nova Scotia on Boston Common for a spectacular celebration of holiday cheer and this beloved tradition.” WCVB Channel 5 Chronicle co-anchors Anthony Everett and Shayna Seymour will host a live broadcast of the event beginning at 7:00 p.m. Headlining the show will be the iconic American female vocal group, The Pointer Sisters, performing hits including “I’m So Excited.” This year’s lineup also features Nova Scotia blues sensation Matt Andersen, Disney on Broadway’s Belinda Allyn performing “Beauty and the Beast”, songs from Nova Scotia’s alternative-pop singer-songwriter Maggie Andrew, and a heartwarming performance by the Handel and Haydn Society Youth Choruses.  Pre-show entertainment will kick off at 6:00 p.m., setting the stage for a magical night on the Common with performances by Boston Police Officer Stephen McNulty, Taste of Ireland’s A Celtic Christmas, Origination, and Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Joelle James. The official holiday season kick-off in Boston includes the lighting of the City of Boston's official Christmas tree with approximately 5,000 lights, and the lighting of more than 50,000 lights throughout the Boston Common and Public Garden. This year’s historic Tree for Boston is a 45-foot-tall white spruce donated by Ronald and Claire Feener of Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia.  The holiday lights throughout both parks will light up in sequence shortly before 8:00 p.m. when Mayor Wu will be joined onstage by Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. The show will close with a pyrotechnic display by Pyrotecnico. The annual tree lighting on Boston Common is presented by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department and The Province of Nova Scotia. The event is supported by presenting sponsor Amazon, signature sponsor Meet Boston, key sponsors Constellation Power and JetBlue, media sponsors WCVB Channel 5 and the Boston Globe, and hotel partner Hilton Boston Park Plaza. A sampling village will feature giveaways and refreshments from H.P. Hood, Drakes Cakes, New England Coffee, Meet Boston, and Globe Santa while supplies last. Sponsors of the “Make the Common Glow for the Holidays” who make the lighting of the Common and Public Garden possible include The Lynch Family Foundation and Greystar.  "Amazon is honored to serve as the presenting sponsor of the Boston Common Tree Lighting, a cherished tradition that brings our community together during the holiday season. This event embodies the spirit of joy and connection that makes Boston such a special place to live and work,” said Jerome Smith, Head of Community Engagement, New England & Canada, Amazon. “We're proud to support the City of Boston in creating magical moments for families across New England.” At approximately 8:15 p.m., immediately following the celebration on the Boston Common, Mayor Wu will join the Friends of the Public Garden and the Committee to Light Commonwealth Avenue Mall to flip the switch to light up Commonwealth Avenue Mall in the Back Bay. The lights on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall will be lit from Arlington Street to Charlesgate. Please call (617) 635-4505 or visit boston.gov/boston-common-tree-lighting for more information about the festivities. To stay up to date with news, events, and improvements in Boston parks visit boston.gov/parks, call (617) 635-4505, join our email list, and follow our social channels @bostonparksdept on X, Facebook, Instagram, and @parks.boston.gov on Bluesky.

波士頓You&Me樂團“聽見光”音樂會助林美均感恩波士頓慈濟

波士頓You&Me樂團“聽見光”音樂會演出團員。（周菊子攝）

             (Boston Orange 周菊子麻州牛頓市報導) 一場關於重生與感恩的音樂會“聽見光”，11月22日在波士頓慈濟的牛頓市會所上演，逾百聽眾共襄盛舉，購票出席，聆聽歸隊的波士頓You&Me樂團現場唱奏16首動聽歌曲，助力林美均完成心願，一同體會感恩意義。

波士頓You&Me樂團創辦人黃崇校（左二）和林美均（中）感謝慈濟波士頓
聯絡處負責人長金滿（右二）提供場地，駐波士頓經文處處長廖朝宏（右）
和僑教中心主任高家富出席。（圖由波士頓慈濟提供）

            “真的很棒”，駐波士頓台北經濟文化辦事處處長廖朝宏離場時這麼說。幾名以前在不同場合聽過“You&Me”樂團的聽眾也覺得，這是一場唱得好，彈得棒，讓人很享受的音樂會。

            就像樂團演唱的第一首歌，「飄洋過海來看你」，這場音樂會的緣起是已從伯克利音樂學院，以及巴德學院（Bard College）朗琴音樂學校（Longy School of Music）畢業，返台發展的團員林美均回來波士頓了。

波士頓You&Me樂團副團長周晌昀演唱。（周菊子攝）

            林美均懷念當年在樂團一起玩音樂的夥伴們，也想感謝二年前出車禍，波士頓慈濟人給她的無微不至照顧，特地遠道從台灣回波士頓，把當年的You&Me樂團夥伴們都找回來，舉辦“聽見光”感恩音樂會，而且所有收入不扣除成本的全數捐給「慈濟急難救助基金」。

波士頓You&Me樂團和觀眾合影。（周菊子攝）

歌手陳瑩璇（又）介紹這次音樂會的吉他手林美均。

            You & Me樂團這天找回了10名團員，邀請今年5月才到台灣辦過演唱會的卡西柯爾曼（Cassie Kollman）助陣，和樂團唱將陳瑩璇，劉雙洲，楊智晴，周晌昀一起，還演唱了「每次都想呼喊你的名字」，「花田錯」，「永遠不夠（Never Enough）」，「最好的時光」，「七月涼山」，「橄欖樹」，「張三的歌」，「外面的世界」，「一切都是為了與你相遇」，「別找我麻煩」，「Basket-full」，「Marilene」，「新不了情」，「山丘」，「晚安台灣」。

            這些歌曲的原唱或主唱者，幾乎都是名人，包括李宗盛，李述權，王力宏，周華健，五月天，齊豫，齊秦，萬芳，既有流行音樂，爵士樂，也有民歌，民謠，民族樂，種類十分多元，壓軸的“晚安台灣”還是“滅火器樂團”主唱的台語搖滾曲。

            慈濟波士頓聯絡處負責人長金滿透露，牛頓市會所原本是一座教堂，內有管風琴，建築物本身有音效考量，大概是這天音樂會聽起來感覺更棒的原因。

波士頓You&Me樂團副團長周晌昀演唱。（周菊子攝）

            You & Me樂團這天演出的團員，貝斯手已遷居他州，這次是為了林美均，特地長途跋涉的開車回波士頓參加演出，團員中楊智晴和顧宗浩則因換工作緣故，即將遷居新澤西州。

已從黃崇校手中接任團長一職的蔡佩珊（莎莎）表示，感謝波士頓經文處處長廖朝宏和僑教中心主任高家富這天來參加音樂會，她將和副團長周晌昀協調團員們的時間，歡迎有志一同者和他們聯繫，在自娛娛人之中，參與社區活動，分享音樂的陶冶人心之樂。（訂正版，歌名更新，薩克斯風手應為貝斯手）

陳瑩璇介紹樂團成員José Silva自製了很特別的樂器Linnstrument。（周菊子攝）

劉雙洲演唱。（周菊子攝）

音樂會結束時，林美均收到獻花。（周菊子攝）

卡西柯爾曼在林美均伴奏中演唱。（周菊子攝）

波士頓台大校友會會長李佳蓉（左二）等人獻花祝賀副團長周晌昀（右三）演出成功。
（周菊子攝）

金花師姐在演唱會結束後，協助派發餐盒及豆花。（周菊子攝）

You&Me樂團新團長蔡佩珊（前右四）和林美均（中），慈濟波士頓聯絡人長金滿
（右二）等人合影。（周菊子攝）

自製特殊樂器的團員José Silva。（周菊子攝）

顧宗浩和楊智晴（前左一、二）即將遷居，朋友們依依不捨。（周菊子攝）

波士頓市長吳弭與社區合作發放3200隻火雞助居民過感恩節

波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）和社區成員一起在牙買加平原的 Nuevo Dia ADHC 派發感恩節大餐。（波士頓市府圖片， Jeremiah Robinson攝) （Boston Orange編譯）波士頓市長吳弭和成人日間照護中心Nuevo Dia等60多個社區夥伴合作，由社區參與內閣（Community Engagement Cabinet）和文化事務辦公室（Office of Cultural Affairs）協助，在3天內發放了3200隻火雞和35,000磅食物給波士頓居民，讓弱勢家庭也能過個美好的感恩節。 吳弭市長表示，在聯邦政府的食物補助券(SNAP)福利一度停擺，延遲，坊間食物不安全問題更見嚴重中，波士頓市府竭力提供支持，以期更多家庭能在感恩佳節也有一餐溫飽。 為感恩節派送的食物，在火雞之外，還有大米，扁豆，以及罐頭等不易腐爛的食物。 參與合作，並捐贈食物的機構包括“停步購物超市（Stop & Shop）”、亞馬遜（Amazon）、TD球場（TD Garden）、紅襪隊（Red Sox）、波士頓傳承足球俱樂部（Boston Legacy Football Club），麻州廚房（Commonwealth Kitchen），Toast.org，聯合食品和商業工人聯盟（United Food and Commercial Workers Union），本地1445工會（Local 1445），護理服務（Care Access），羅氏兄弟超市（Roche Bros.）、Shaw’s連鎖超市，星市場（Star market），美國最大的西語裔食品公司Goya等的支持和捐贈。 波士頓市政府鼓勵需要糧食資源的居民電洽 311 或 617-635-4500。需要幫助的社區成員可以上網，從市長糧食正義辦公室 (OFJ) 和鄰里糧食行動協作組織 (Neighborhood Food Action Collaborative) 合作製作的 感恩節資源網頁，獲取多語言的感恩節資源。 如果需應付持續的糧食不安全問題，居民可上糧食正義辦公室的 糧食資源頁面（https://www.boston.gov/departments/food-justice/food-resources），或使用大波士頓食物銀行 (Greater Boston Food Bank) 的 食物銀行查找工具，或致電 麵包計畫（Project Bread）的食物資源熱線1-800-645-8333。 MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES INCREASED EFFORTS TO SUPPORT FAMILIES DURING THE HOLIDAYS, INCLUDING ANNUAL TURKEY DONATIONS

City and community partners distributed more than 3,200 turkeys and 35,000 pounds of food to residents  BOSTON - Monday, November 24, 2025  - Today, Mayor Michelle Wu gathered with partners at Nuevo Dia, an adult day health center located in Jamaica Plain, to distribute turkeys to older adults ahead of Thanksgiving. This year, residents have faced unprecedented challenges because of the effects of the federal government shutdown, which caused a delay in SNAP benefits. Community organizations that work to eliminate food insecurity have also experienced challenges keeping food pantries stocked to support residents who rely on the resources. The annual turkey distribution is a continued effort by the City of Boston to ensure families have a warm meal during the holidays. The turkey and food distribution was a three-day operation led by the Community Engagement Cabinet and the Office of Cultural Affairs, who delivered more than 3,200 turkeys and 35,000 pounds of food to Boston residents in need.  “During an unprecedented period of growing food insecurity, it is more important than ever to come together this Thanksgiving,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I am so grateful to our city departments and community partners for their coordinated efforts, reducing barriers for residents and their families to access the food they deserve to enjoy a stress-free holiday. This annual effort builds on our work to build a stronger food system for our community, making Boston a more accessible home for every resident.” Turkeys and bags of non-perishable foods including rice, lentils, canned corn, beans, pasta, and more were hand-delivered to over 60 partners including local community and cultural organizations, churches, and Boston Housing Authority sites that then distributed to residents to help families celebrate the holidays with a fulfilling meal. “The Community Engagement Cabinet’s annual turkey distribution is a key priority to ensure Boston residents have access to food in neighborhoods during the holiday,” said Brianna Millor, Chief of the Community Engagement Cabinet. “In these difficult times, it is important now more than ever to provide food to our neighbors in need, so they understand that the City of Boston has their back. I am grateful to our partners who helped us feed more than 3,200 families in our city.” “Food has always been a powerful way to bring people together; it connects us to our roots, our families, and our culture,” said Alexandra Valdez, Executive Director of the Mayor's Office Cultural Affairs. “Through the Office of Cultural Affairs, we’re proud to amplify that power by ensuring families can enjoy meals that reflect who they are. This is our third year bringing culturally meaningful food to residents’ tables, and we are so thankful for the partners who stand with us and make this work possible.” The City partnered with companies and community based organizations to source turkeys and food, including Stop & Shop, Amazon, Roche Bros., Shaw’s and Star Market, Red Sox, TD Garden, Boston Legacy Football Club, Commonwealth Kitchen, Toast.org, United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Local 1445, Goya, and Care Access.  "Amazon is honored to partner with the City of Boston to support families during the Thanksgiving season," said Jerome Smith, Head of Community Engagement for New England and Canada at Amazon. "Addressing food insecurity remains central to our community focus, and we're thankful to work alongside the Community Engagement Cabinet to bring joy and support to Boston residents this holiday season." “TD Garden is proud to support our neighbors in the City of Boston, especially during the holiday season," said Glen Thornborough, President of TD Garden and COO of the Boston Bruins. "Our donation to the City's annual turkey drive, along with our Table of Friends dinner on the arena floor, are just a few of the ways we can help to provide a warm meal to those who need it most. We thank Mayor Wu for her leadership and dedication to the community all year long.” “We’re proud to once again join Mayor Wu and the City of Boston to make sure families across our neighborhoods can enjoy a Thanksgiving meal together,” said Sam Kennedy, President & CEO of the Boston Red Sox. “This time of year is a reminder of what it means to come together and give back, and we’re thankful for the Mayor’s partnership and the chance to carry on this great Boston tradition.” “Boston Legacy FC is proud to partner with the City of Boston to support our neighbors during the holiday season,” said Jennifer Epstein, Controlling Manager of Boston Legacy Football Club. “As we look ahead to calling White Stadium our home in 2027, it means so much to us that this effort is rooted in the neighborhoods closest to where we’ll play. This time of year reminds us how powerful it is when we come together to support one another and give back.” Boston’s emergency food system faced unprecedented demand during the pandemic and remains strained today, exacerbated by the delay in SNAP benefits. As food prices continue to soar, and Boston faces some of the highest grocery prices in the country, the City has taken coordinated action to support residents in need.  "At Roche Bros. Supermarkets, giving back to the communities we serve is central to our values," said Tristen Kendall-Barros, Vice President of Marketing at Roche Bros. Supermarkets. "We are honored to partner with the Mayor's Office again this year to ensure that more Boston families can gather around the table and share a Thanksgiving meal. Supporting this annual turkey drive is a meaningful way for us to demonstrate our commitment to our neighbors during the holiday season." “The holiday season is a time when we bring people together, and it’s especially important that we support communities who may be facing hardship,” said Rafael Toro, National Director of Public Relations for Goya Foods. “Even a small gesture—like a warm meal—can make a meaningful difference. Goya is proud to stand with Boston in ensuring that every family feels cared for and supported during this holiday season."  "At Toast, we are dedicated to building a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable world, with a focus on combating food insecurity. The increased demand on organizations fighting hunger and food insecurity is significant this holiday season, and our commitment to supporting our communities remains strong,” said Jackie Martin, Global Head of Social Impact at Toast. “We are delighted to partner with the City of Boston during Toast’s 5th Annual Season of Giving to support the City of Boston’s turkey drive.” In addition to seasonal Thanksgiving Food distribution, the City of Boston ensures communities have access to fresh, healthy, culturally relevant, and affordable food all year long. This begins in schools, where all BPS students receive fresh, culturally-affirming meals at no cost. To support families and healthy habits, many Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF)  also provide after school meal programs and food assistance. Boston shoppers benefit from locally grown food at over 20 farmers markets as well as discounts through the Double Up Food Bucks Program, which makes fresh fruit and vegetables more affordable at participating neighborhood stores. The Age Strong Commission provides older adults with nutrition support and counseling, ensuring they have access to the quality food necessary to live healthy and strong lives. At over 40 dining sites across Boston’s neighborhoods, seniors, and their spouses can share a nutritious meal with others. Individuals who cannot leave their homes because of illness, disability, or frailty, or who have significant difficulty preparing meals, are also eligible to receive home-delivered meals. The City of Boston encourages residents in need of food resources to call 311 or 617-635-4500. Community members in need can find multilingual Thanksgiving resources made in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Food Justice (OFJ) and the Neighborhood Food Action Collaborative at their  Thanksgiving Resource webpage. To address ongoing food insecurity, the Office of Food Justice has a  Food Resource Page, residents can visit the the Greater Boston Food Bank’s food pantry finder or call Project Bread’s Food Source Hotline at 1-800-645-8333.

Asian Americans Advancing Justice – Asian American Justice Center (Advancing Justice – AAJC) issues the following statement in response:

 Asian Americans Advancing Justice – Asian American Justice Center (Advancing Justice – AAJC) issues the following statement in response: 

“We denounce the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to terminate temporary protected status (TPS) for Burmese immigrants. Burma was first designated for TPS in 2021 in response to the country’s human rights violations and political unrest. TPS for Burmese nationals was extended and redesignated, most recently in March 2024, due to the prevailing political turmoil, targeting of ethnic minorities, and mass displacement.  

 

“Burma continues to suffer from hazards that make returning to the country dangerous for TPS holders. In March, Burma experienced an earthquake amidst its ongoing civil war which exacerbated the already dire conditions. The life-threatening circumstances under which TPS was first designated for Burma are still present. Rather than terminate TPS for Burma, we urge the administration to redesignate and extend TPS to protect Burmese TPS holders currently in the U.S. from inhumane conditions. It is needlessly cruel to give Burmese TPS holders only 60 days to leave the U.S. and return to a country still in crisis. 

 

“This decision is another reckless termination of TPS from the administration. DHS has already shown their disregard for immigrant communities by ending TPS for hundreds of thousands of people from countries such as Nepal, Afghanistan, Syria, Venezuela and others. In terminating TPS for Burma, this administration fails to uphold their commitment to protect vulnerable populations from humanitarian emergencies. We call on Congress to pass relief for Burmese TPS holders and other TPS holders in response to the administration’s negligent, oppressive agenda.”  

Healey-Driscoll Administration Invests $4.1 Million for No-cost Workforce Training and Education

Healey-Driscoll Administration Invests $4.1 Million for No-cost Workforce Training and Education  EVERETT – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced that they are awarding $4.1 million to 12 adult education organizations to support the organizations’ work helping adults enroll in college or find employment in high-growth industries. The funding will be used to provide training, education and wrap-around services to approximately 700 adults to help them pursue jobs such as medical interpreters, certified nursing assistants and community health care workers.     “This investment reflects Massachusetts’ deep commitment to expanding access to high-quality training programs that equip people with the skills and credentials they need to enter growing industries, advance their careers and support their families,” said Governor Maura Healey.  “Adult education students are some of the hardest working people in Massachusetts, and this initiative is designed to help improve the programs that serve them,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll.   “Adult learners strengthen both our communities and our economy,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “Adult and Community Learning Services has long built bridges between classroom and career, and this investment is a clear display that workforce readiness remains a priority.”  “Educational organizations, like today’s awardees, play an important role in our efforts to attract, retain, and develop talent by expanding access to the training and skills our workers need,” said Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Lauren Jones. “These grants highlight the collaborative effort between the state, employers, workforce training providers, and academic partners to improve employment outcomes, deliver a more equitable workforce, and strengthen the state’s economic competitiveness.”   “We are proud to invest in innovative models that meet the needs of adult learners and the evolving demands of Massachusetts employers,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez. “The addition of Fair Share funds will help more residents gain access to life-changing opportunities for economic advancement.”  “As we work to meet the growing demand for health care services, investments like this are essential,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano of Quincy. “Supporting adult education programs that prepare residents in Quincy and the surrounding area for careers in health care creates pathways to economic stability and strengthens the system of care that serves families across our community. The House was proud to support this funding and thanks the Healey-Driscoll Administration for its partnership in strengthening our workforce.”  This funding expands the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) Pay for Performance initiative from five to twelve adult education programs. Pay for Performance, an innovative funding model, is designed to compensate providers based on measurable outcomes in employment, college enrollment, or industry-recognized credentials. The funding comes from a combination of the fiscal year 2026 state budget and Fair Share supplemental budget.   “These grants will enable many more adults to receive critical workforce training and support services to continue their education and find jobs in high-demand fields,” said Senator Jason Lewis, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “Investing in adult education helps employers to find qualified employees and helps residents to build their careers and support their families.”  “This investment in education and workforce training supports both our adult students and our employers,” said Representative Ken Gordon, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “It helps individuals advance their careers while strengthening our workforce in high-demand industries.”  “I'm deeply grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for its sustained investment in career-connected learning programs, which open doors for thousands of students to gain real-world experience, earn college credit, and prepare for meaningful careers,” said Senator Jo Comerford, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education. “Higher education is both an equity and economic engine for the Commonwealth, and these programs strengthen our workforce, our people, and our economy.”  "Investing in adult learners is investing in the backbone of our workforce," said Senator Jake Oliveira, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development. "These programs open doors for residents who are eager to build new skills, enter high-demand fields, and secure good-paying jobs. By connecting education to real career opportunities, we're not just strengthening our workforce, we're empowering families and communities across the Commonwealth."  “Investing in adult education and workforce training is one of the most effective ways the Commonwealth can strengthen the economy and expand opportunity,” said Representative Paul McMurtry, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development. “These programs open doors for adults to gain the skills for high-demand industries while helping employers meet their growing workforce needs.”  The recipients are as follows:   Boston Education, Skills and Training Program: $67,500  Services: Hospitality (pipeline to unionized hotel employment)  Cape Cod Community College: $398,000  Services: Certified Nursing Assistant and Medical Interpreter  Catholic Charities (El Centro): $370,000  Services: College Preparation (pipeline to Franklin Cummings Tech biotechnology degree program and internship)  City of Quincy - Quincy College: $193,500  Services: Community Healthcare Worker  Greenfield Community College: $180,000  Services: Certified Nursing Assistant  Holyoke Community College: $766,000  Services: Internationally Trained Professionals Program, Culinary (ServSafe Managers), Certified Nursing Assistant, and Workforce and College Preparation   Jewish Vocational Services: $1,000,500  Services: Healthcare (Certified Pharmacy Technician, Certified Sterile Processing; Certified Nursing Assistant), Workforce Readiness, and Bridges to College  Jewish Vocational Services: $500,000  Services: Bridges to College  Julie's Family Learning Program: $86,500  Services: Workforce and College Readiness  More Than Words: $100,000  Services: Workforce and College Readiness  Mujeres Unidas Avanzando: $205,000  Services: Certified Medical Assistant and Home Health Aid  The Notre Dame Education Center - Lawrence: $85,000  Services: Adult Education English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Teacher Training  YMCA of Greater Boston: $150,000  Services: Workforce and College Readiness