MAYOR WU, MASS GENERAL BRIGHAM, AND THE YMCA OF GREATER BOSTON ANNOUNCE NEW COLD-STORAGE INFRASTRUCTURE AND FOOD HUB

 MAYOR WU, MASS GENERAL BRIGHAM, AND THE YMCA OF GREATER BOSTON ANNOUNCE NEW COLD-STORAGE INFRASTRUCTURE AND FOOD HUB

BOSTON - Wednesday, December 11, 2024 - Today, Mayor Michelle Wu, Mass General Brigham, and the YMCA of Greater Boston announced a partnership to develop a collaborative food storage and distribution hub. This space will be shared by organizations that distribute food throughout Boston with the YMCA of Greater Boston as the lead organization. This is a unique collaboration among a major healthcare institution, a community-focused nonprofit, and City government, working together to tackle food insecurity and coordinating with a host of other collaborators to benefit from existing expertise and infrastructure. The collaborative hub will allow more fresh, refrigerated food to reach food pantries, soup kitchens, and other food distribution sites throughout Boston, particularly in neighborhoods with the highest rates of food insecurity. 

The City of Boston redirected $2 million in ARPA funds towards supporting a collaborative food storage and distribution hub. Mass General Brigham has committed $3 million to the project through its Community Health Impact Funds, guided by the 2022 Boston Community Health Needs Assessment. Access to refrigeration and storage will allow food that has been recovered from grocers, farms, and other establishments to remain fresh and healthy for residents. As food prices continue to soar, the need for storage, particularly cold storage, is critical to increasing access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Refrigeration is a key roadblock to increasing access to rescued food for Boston residents in a way that extends shelf life and supports the livelihoods of Massachusetts farmers. Additionally $500,000 was awarded to 12 groups to expand refrigeration and freezer space to ensure food is fresh, safe, and available to Boston residents.

“This partnership represents a powerful step forward in our fight against food insecurity,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “By investing in cold-storage infrastructure and collaborative solutions, we’re building a stronger food system so every Boston resident has access to fresh, healthy, and culturally relevant food. With the support of Mass General Brigham, the YMCA of Greater Boston, and more incredible community partners, we are creating a sustainable model that connects surplus food to those who need it most while supporting local farmers and reducing waste. This is a victory for Boston families, our environment, and our shared future.”

"Mass General Brigham’s investment reflects our commitment to improving equitable access to nutritious foods and promoting nutrition security, leading to better health outcomes,” said Elsie Taveras, MD, MPH, Chief Community Health and Health Equity Officer for Mass General Brigham. "With hunger identified as a key health priority in the latest Boston-area Community Health Needs Assessments, our Community Advisory Board acted quickly, voting unanimously to seize this impactful opportunity. We are proud to partner with the Y and the City of Boston to support nutrition security, drive systemic change in food storage and delivery, and support local farmers and businesses."

“This new collaborative food storage and distribution hub represents a significant step forward in addressing food insecurity across Boston and we are so grateful to the City and MGB for their visionary lead funding,” said YMCA of Greater Boston President and CEO David Shapiro. “This hub will serve as the new home for our distribution efforts as the largest partner of the Greater Boston Food Bank, resulting in more than 3.5 million meals annually, supported also by our mobile food van and robust nutrition education programming. Building off these efforts, this new location will also serve as a hub for key organizations who lead the way on food waste reduction, recovery, and fresh food distribution. Through expansive collaboration to increase efficiency, effectiveness, and possibility, we seek to greatly increase access to fresh, healthy, culturally relevant foods for all."

The collaborative hub includes the YMCA of Greater Boston as the backbone organization and seven other partner food access organizations. It is located in Roxbury in a 27,000-square-foot warehouse, formerly an Amazon fulfillment center, with 5,500 square feet of state-of-the-art refrigeration and freezer space. The Office of Food Justice (OFJ) recently completed a food recovery assessment, with recommendations for citywide action to ensure fresh food does not go to waste. Input from various stakeholder shaped recommendations for interventions the City can pursue to boost food recovery and improve the redistribution of surplus foods. This storage and distribution site acts on key recommendations that are included in the report. 

OFJ has also awarded 12 grants to support the storage and distribution of perishable food, including recovered and donated food to emergency food, food access, and food recovery organizations. The grants, totaling $500,000, support strategies that expand refrigeration and freezer space to ensure food is fresh, safe, and available to residents. The investment will help the broader ecosystem connect nutritious foods to the 43% of Boston households experiencing food insecurity. 

“This collaborative hub is a game-changer for addressing food insecurity in our city,” said Boston City Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata. “I’m grateful to have been able to support this project by approving the reallocation of ARPA funding to make this vision a reality. By investing in cold storage and bringing together partners committed to food justice, we are ensuring that fresh, healthy food is accessible to families across Boston, especially in neighborhoods most impacted by food insecurity. This initiative not only strengthens our emergency food network but also reflects our shared values of equity, sustainability, and community collaboration.”

The emergency food system in Boston has faced unprecedented demand during the pandemic and remains strained today. The City of Boston, the YMCA of Greater Boston, the Greater Boston Food Bank, other public and private entities, and dozens of other nonprofits, restaurants and community partners played a key role in meeting the emergent food security needs of marginalized residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. This patchwork of emergency food distribution channels that distribute food to hundreds of sites across the City expanded over the last several years and are now having difficulty meeting their needs, particularly securing ample storage space and refrigeration/freezer space.

“This initiative exemplifies the intersection of environmental sustainability and social equity,” said Brian Swett, Chief Climate Officer and Chief of the Environment, Energy and Open Space Cabinet. “By expanding cold storage infrastructure and supporting food recovery efforts, we are reducing food waste, lowering emissions, and ensuring that fresh, nutritious food reaches every corner of our city. The collaborative hub is a model for how Boston can tackle food insecurity and climate challenges simultaneously, creating a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable food system for all.”

Since March 2023, OFJ worked with the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) through the Food Matters Initiative, to develop strategies to reduce food waste, with a focus on recovering food that is safe, fresh and healthy for residents to eat. Estimates calculated by NRDC in 2023 found that Boston has 130,000 tons of food waste and over 1,100 tons of food per year that could be additionally recovered with interventions pursued by the City and other sectors. Spurred on by a peer learning opportunity through NRDC, Bloomberg, and C40, a new food hub model in Milan, Italy serves as a guide for the new collaborative food distribution hub.

吳弭市長: 迎接冬季，波士頓已做好準備

 MAYOR WU SHARES BOSTON’S WINTER WEATHER PREPARATIONS

BOSTON - Wednesday, December 11, 2024 - Mayor Michelle Wu and City officials today announced winter preparations currently underway in the City of Boston and resources available to residents and those who are most at risk including older residents, those with disabilities, and individuals experiencing homelessness. 

“No matter what weather is in store, the City is ready to support Boston residents through the winter,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Our City departments are working hard to ensure each community member will be safe and supported in the case of a winter weather emergency. I encourage residents to stay alert in case of an emergency, look after your neighbors, and utilize City services.”

The Public Works Department (PWD) currently has 34,000 tons of salt on-hand to treat City streets. PWD has 175 pieces of in-house snow clearing equipment and has the capability to place over 800 additional pieces on the roads during larger storms. As part of their neighborhood plowing operations during winter storms and to ensure the safety of riders following events, PWD allocates pieces of equipment to clear snow from Boston's dedicated bike lanes.

The Office of Emergency Preparedness monitors forecasts and maintains open lines of communication with the National Weather Service. OEM also works across City departments and with external partners to ensure coordinated response plans are in place leading up to extreme weather events. Residents can sign up to receive AlertBoston, the City’s emergency mass notification system, by phone, text, or email in the event a snow emergency/parking ban is declared. Safety tips on how to prepare for winter storms are on boston.gov. AlertBoston notifications are available in 11 languages.

This year, A&M Home Services and Mass Trucking, two Boston-based minority-owned businesses, will continue to assist the Public Works Department during snow and ice control operations, clearing City-owned stairways and footpaths. Both contracts are part of the City of Boston’s Sheltered Market Program aimed at promoting equity in procurement. 

As temperatures drop, Mayor Wu is reminding residents to keep your homes and businesses more efficient through the Mass Save program. Boston is a part of Mass Save's Community First Partnership to bring energy cost savings to residents, small businesses, houses of worship, and local nonprofits in East Boston, Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan. Through this partnership, the Mass Save Sponsors will offer up to 100% off the cost of approved upgrades. Participants can also receive a variety of no-cost energy-saving products such as water-saving devices and programmable thermostats by signing up for an energy audit.

Rules on clearing snow:

• Property owners must fully clear snow, sleet, and ice from sidewalks and curb ramps abutting the property within three hours after the snowfall ends or three hours after sunrise if the snow ends overnight. Curb and pedestrian ramps to the street should be cleared fully and continually over the duration of the storm to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. If a storm will last over an extended period of time, property owners are asked to continually check ramps abutting their property for compliance. 
• Removal of snow and ice from a private property to the street or sidewalk is prohibited. 
• Failure to comply with the rules can result in fines issued by PWD's Code Enforcement Division. Fines associated with improper removal of snow can be found here.

Parking during a declared snow emergency:

• If a snow emergency is declared, cars will be ticketed and towed if parked on a posted snow emergency artery. 
• Space savers must be removed within 48 hours after a snow emergency has been lifted. Please note: space savers are NOT allowed in the South End and Bay Village.
• During declared snow emergencies, discounted parking is available at some parking lots and garages for Boston residents. A list of discounted parking garages can be found here.

Trash and recycling: 

• During severe snowstorms, recycling and trash collection may be canceled, but this is extremely rare. Most often, severe snowstorms can cause delays in service. Residents can download the free Trash Day App to view neighborhood recycling and trash schedules, locate a textile dropbox in their neighborhood, and to find out what items they can and can’t recycle.
• Crews have a difficult time reaching trash barrels and recycling carts placed behind snowbanks. Residents and business owners are asked to clear an area at the curb for collection or place containers next to or in front of snowbanks.

Caring for vulnerable populations:

• If you see homeless and vulnerable individuals out in the cold who appear immobile, disoriented, or underdressed for the cold, please call 911.
• The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) utilizes a city-wide network of emergency shelters, outreach providers, city agencies, and first responders to assist those in need of shelter.
• Boston's emergency shelters are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and when temperatures are below freezing (32 degrees) amnesty is in place for those with nonviolent restrictions. Men can access shelter at the 112 Southampton Street Shelter, and women should go to the Woods Mullen Shelter at 794 Massachusetts Ave. BPHC and the City work closely with shelter providers in the city to ensure that no client is without shelter, food, resources, and a warm respite from the cold.
• Any person needing shelter should access shelter directly, any time of day or night. Providers and community partners looking to facilitate shelter access may call 617-534-4440, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.- 9:00 p.m.
• During extreme cold weather, street outreach teams operate with extended hours and provide mobile outreach vans on the streets in the evening and throughout the day.

 Dress for the weather:

• Wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing.
• Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent, and cover any exposed skin.
• Always wear a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
• Dress children warmly and set reasonable time limits on outdoor play.
• Restrict infants' outdoor exposure when it is colder than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Watch for signs of frostbite:

• Signs of frostbite include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately by calling 911.

Watch for signs of hypothermia:

• These include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion. If you or someone you know shows any of these symptoms, get in touch with a healthcare provider immediately. If symptoms are severe, call 911.

Safety tips:

• If you are able, keep catch basins and fire hydrants clear of snow and debris. This will help prevent flooding and allow for access in the event of an emergency. For a map of catch basins and fire hydrants, visit here.
• Shoveling snow requires significant exertion; please be cautious and pay attention to symptoms. Stop if you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, lightheaded, nauseous/vomiting. Call 911 if those symptoms do not resolve quickly.
• Snow piles can make navigating intersections dangerous for walkers and drivers. Please take extra care when turning corners with snow piles that might limit visibility.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning is a concern during winter weather, especially with the use of generators. Residents should use their home heating systems wisely and safely, and have a working carbon monoxide detector on each floor of the home. Call 911 immediately if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Sitting in a car while idling can be deadly if the tailpipe is blocked. Do not let children sit in an idling car while shoveling. Clear any household exhaust pipes of snow.
• Have a contractor check the roof to see if snow needs to be removed. If roof snow can be removed from the ground with the use of a snow-rake, do so with caution. Avoid working from ladders and be mindful of slippery surfaces.

Heating guidelines for property owners and tenants:

• In accordance with the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code, the heating season officially begins on September 15 and runs through May 31. Property owners must heat habitable spaces at a minimum temperature of 68° between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. and 64° between 11:01 p.m. and 6:59 a.m.
• In cases of emergency, property owners are encouraged to keep a list of licensed contractors (electrician, plumber, and general contractor) on file. Tenants experiencing problems with their heating system should check the thermostat, ensure the dial is turned on, and report insufficient or no heat problems to the property owner or manager immediately.
• If your landlord or property manager is unresponsive, contact the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) at (617) 635-5300 to file a complaint, or call 311.  

Heating safety:

• Never try to heat your home using a charcoal or gas grill, the kitchen stove, or other product not specifically designed as a heater. These can cause a fire or produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide very quickly. 
• Have your heating system cleaned and checked annually.
• Make sure all vents are clear of snow or any other debris.
• Install and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide is an invisible gas produced whenever any fuel is burned. Common sources include oil or gas furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, stoves, and some space heaters. It has no smell, taste, or color. It is a poison and is deadly.

Tips to keep water flowing and pipes unfrozen during extreme cold:

• The Boston Water and Sewer Commission recommends homeowners locate a home's main water shut off valve, and learn how to use it. Should a frozen pipe burst, shutting the main valve quickly will minimize flooding and property damage.
• Homeowners should insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces. Use inexpensive hardware store materials to prevent pipes from freezing and to keep warm water flowing.
• Circulate warm air around pipes by keeping cabinet doors open. Circulate a trickle of tap water through pipes during extreme cold to help prevent them freezing up.
• Locate your water meter, protect it from drafts, and make sure basement doors and windows are shut tight.
• If pipes do freeze, slow thaw with a hair dryer. Never use an open flame to thaw pipes. If water is lost in all taps, call BWSC 24-hour Emergency Assistance Line at 617-989-7000.  

Emergency home repair resources: 

• Income-eligible homeowners and Boston's residents over age 62 can receive assistance with winter emergencies and repairs, such as fixing storm damage, leaking roofs, or leaking/frozen pipes. Grant and loan funding is available. For assistance, residents should call the Mayor's hotline at 311 or the Boston Home Center at 617-635-HOME (4663).   
• In addition, the Mayor's Seniors Save program helps income eligible Bostonians over the age of 60 replace old, inefficient heating systems with a brand new heating system before a failure occurs during the cold winter months. Grant and loan funding is available. Eligible owners should also call 311 or the Boston Home Center at 617-635-HOME (4663) to be connected with a City staffer to provide additional details.

Tips to increase home energy efficiency: 

• Disconnect the water hose from the home.
• Wrap or cover exposed spigots.
• Caulk or putty windows.
• Ensure kitchen and bathroom dampers close properly.
• Close all storm windows and doors.
• Apply weather stripping.
• Properly insulate all pipes that are exposed.
• Install insulated or heavy drapes to keep cold drafts from coming in.
• Close the damper to a wood burning fireplace after each use. Consider a chimney balloon if you don't have a damper.

Tips for what to do before a power outage:

• Before a weather event prepare your home by:
• Ensuring that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working and have fresh batteries.
• Consider purchasing a generator to provide power during an outage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and learn how to use it safely before an outage.
• Ensuring that you have sufficient heating fuel. Consider safe backup heating options such as fireplaces or woodstoves.
• Have a landline phone with a corded receiver.
• Fully charge your cell phone, laptop, and other electronic devices.
• If you have a water supply (such as a well-water pump system) that could be affected by a power outage, fill your bathtub and spare containers with water. The water in the bathtub should be used for sanitation purposes only. You can pour a bucket of this water directly into the toilet bowl to flush it.
• Keep your car’s gas tank full. Pumps at gas stations may not work during a power outage.
• Set your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings to keep food cold (but remember to reset them back to normal once power is restored).
• If you have life-support devices, such as home dialysis or breathing machines, or other medical equipment or supplies that depend on electricity:
• Talk to your health care provider about how to use them during a power outage.
• Contact your local electric company and equipment suppliers about your power needs. Some utility companies will put you on a "priority reconnection service" list.
• Let the fire department know that you are dependent on life-support devices.
• If you have medication that requires refrigeration, check with your pharmacist for guidance on proper storage during an extended outage.

Tips for what to do during a power outage:

• Follow instructions from public safety officials.
• Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies including downed power lines.
• Call your utility company to report power outages and get restoration information.
• National Grid  800-322-3223
• Eversource 1-800-592-2000
• Stay away from downed utility wires. Always assume a downed power line is live.
• If a traffic light is out, treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
• Keep a fire extinguisher handy.
• Use generators and grills outside because their fumes contain carbon monoxide. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working.
• If possible, use flashlights instead of candles. If you must use candles, place them in safe holders away from anything that could catch fire. Never leave a burning candle unattended. Never go to sleep with candles burning.
• Unplug sensitive electronics to avoid power surges when power is restored.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Be a good neighbor. Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions, and those who may need additional assistance.

Tips for driving in a winter storm:

• Avoid driving during the worst part of the storm. If possible, only travel during daylight hours, don't travel alone, and stay on main roads instead of taking shortcuts.
• Consider taking public transportation.
• Clear snow and ice from windows, lights, hood, and the roof before driving.
• Don't try to out drive the conditions. Remember the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
• Know the current road conditions. Call 511 from your cell phone or the following from either your cell phone or landline phone.
• Metro Boston: (617) 986-5511
• Brake early and correctly. It takes more time and distance to stop in adverse conditions.
• Be wary of bridge decks. They freeze first, making them more dangerous than the approach road.
• Exit ramps sometimes have less anti-icing material than the main line. Be aware of this when exiting the highway.
• Don't use "cruise control" driving in wintry conditions. Even roads that look clear can have sudden slippery spots. Using your brake on these spots will deactivate cruise control, possibly causing you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Many 4x4 vehicles are heavier than passenger vehicles. This means it takes longer to stop than passenger vehicles. Be wary of your 4x4 vehicle's traction.
• Trucks are heavier than cars, making their brake time slower. Avoid cutting quickly in front of them.
• Don't crowd the plow. Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows. Stay back at least 200 feet and don't pass on the right.
• Always wear your seat belt.
• Let others know your destination, route, and expected travel times.
• Allow for extra travel time.
• Drive with your headlights on at all times to see and be seen.

施耐德電器獲選為2025波士頓馬拉松賽可持續夥伴

Schneider Electric Named the Official Sustainability Partner of the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America

Partnership will support the goal of Boston Athletic Association being an industry leader in sustainability 

BOSTON, December 10, 2024 — The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) announced today that Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, will serve as the Official Sustainability Partner for all B.A.A. events, including the iconic Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America, as well as the Boston 5K, Boston 10K, and Boston Half. Through the partnership, Schneider Electric will collaborate with the B.A.A. across multiple programs over a six-year period to support the organization’s goal of being a sustainability leader in the running industry. 

“Sustainability and taking care of the communities through which we run is central to our mission of promoting a healthy lifestyle,” said Jack Fleming, President and Chief Executive Officer of the B.A.A. “Schneider Electric is not just a leader in sustainability and energy management but is also a world-class organization with strong local ties in Boston. It is a natural fit to join forces with Schneider Electric, who will help push us to reach new heights in the realm of sustainability.” 

The partnership will enable the B.A.A. to calculate its carbon footprint, set an ambitious climate target and release annual sustainability reports over the next six years, including its inaugural report to be released in 2025. Schneider Electric will also support the B.A.A. to implement best practices in operational management, ensuring that the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America and other B.A.A. events become benchmarks for sustainable sporting. 

“As a proud member of the Boston community, we are thrilled to partner with the Boston Athletic Association as their official sustainability partner. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to driving positive change and promoting sustainability at every level,” said Aamir Paul, President of North America Operations for Schneider Electric. “We are committed to helping the Boston Marathon and its surrounding events minimize their environmental footprint while inspiring millions of participants and spectators to embrace sustainable practices.”   

Schneider Electric’s involvement with the B.A.A. extends beyond event sponsorship. The company is helping to transform the Boston Marathon into one of the world’s most sustainable marathons while inspiring participants and spectators alike to run toward a more efficient future. From introducing Schneider Electric "cheer zones" to promoting green volunteer initiatives, the partnership is designed to leave a lasting, positive impact on the community. 

Schneider Electric’s commitment to the Boston region spans more than 130 years. With its North American headquarters in Boston and ongoing partnerships with local institutions, Schneider Electric is a vital part of the community’s efforts to lead the charge toward a more sustainable future. The company employs more than 2,200 team members in New England, with facilities in Boston, Foxborough, and Andover. Schneider Electric’s community and academic partnerships include programs with  Boston University, Jimmy Fund Walk, and Essex County Habitat for Humanity . Schneider Electric was also recently recognized as the world’s most sustainable company by TIME Magazine. 

The B.A.A. has worked with various partners and agencies over the years and has helped to establish a baseline of sustainable procedures and procurement as a core foundation. In 2024, the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America achieved a waste diversion rate of 58%, with 17.03 tons going towards recycling and .48 tons towards composting. Clothing and material donations accounted for 18.38 tons, including discarded race day clothing, shoes collected by Sneakers 4 Good, and carpeting utilized at the Bank of America Boston Marathon Expo. Over 75% of vendors and suppliers are within 100 miles of the Boston Marathon. 

The B.A.A. is also part of World Athletics’ social responsibility program ‘Athletics for a better world’ which includes a World Athletics Sustainability Strategy.

波士頓市長吳弭為華埠點亮聖誕樹 居民關心區域重劃規定分別陳情

吳弭市長和中華公所主席雷國輝。(周菊子攝)

               (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓報導) 波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu) 儘管身懷六甲，12月8日仍帶著聖誕老人，搭乘列車，來到華埠菲利普廣場，為華埠點亮聖誕樹，提醒人們陽曆年關已到，該是準備和家人團聚，為來年制定新計畫的時候。

波士頓華商會會長陳仕維(左四)、余麗媖(左二)等人在活動現場負責分派餅乾、麵包。
陳仕維還和撥士頓計畫長沈其樂 (右三)商量區域重劃規定。(周菊子攝)

              麻州眾議會財政委員會主席麥家威 (Aaron Michlewitz)、波士頓市議員愛德華費連 (Ed Flynn)、Erin Murphy、Henry Santana，Sharon Durkan，波士頓市計畫長沈其樂 (Kairo Shen)，波士頓市經濟及機會包容長Segun Idowu，波士頓市長策略夥伴顧問陳綽敏 (Steven Chan)，市長的華埠聯絡員黃楚嵐等人都隨著聖誕列車，來到華埠賀節。

              波士頓華埠商會會長陳仕維、財政余麗媖和紐英崙中華公所主席雷國輝，率同華商會同仁，在菲利普廣場擺出攤位，派發餅乾、麵包，現場氣氛十分熱鬧。

華人前進會的湯建華(前右起)和鄺寶蓮、余佩瑛等人一起遞交文件給
波士頓市長吳弭(中)，請她支持增建可負擔住宅，而不是酒店。(周菊子攝)

              今年來到聖誕列車現場，聽聖誕老人呵呵呵，看市長點亮聖誕樹的人，似乎有一半是新面孔，除了攜帶年幼子女來和聖誕老人合照的家長，還有許多年長老人家，和華人前進會的主席湯建華，組織員鄺寶蓮等人一起，遞交了厚厚的一份資料給吳弭市長，希望市長支持他們，不要批准夏利臣街上蓋酒店的發展計劃蓋得太高，最好是用來增加地方上的可負擔住宅。

              華商會會長陳仕維也利用機會，和重任波士頓市計畫長的沈其樂晤談，從商人的促進地方經濟繁榮角度，申述他們對重定區域規劃 (rezoning) 的顧慮。他還指出，華埠之內若有華人自己經營的酒店，姓氏宗親會召開懇親大會時，會方便許多等。

              波士頓市今年的聖誕列車，由吳弭市長親自率領，在12月7日、8日兩天，一共拜訪了16個社區。 (更正版， 波士頓市議員Ed Flynn 和Erin Murphy也都出席了華埠聖誕燈亮燈活動)

麻州眾議會財政委員會主席麥家威 (Aaron Michlewitz) (右)每年必到，
祝賀華埠居民聖誕節快樂。左為中華公所英文書記阮鴻燦。(周菊子攝)

波士頓市議員愛德華費連 (Ed Flynn)夫婦和華埠居民合影。 (CPA 提供)

波士頓華埠商會的翁偉健(中)等人在現場派發餅乾、麵包。(周菊子攝)

波士頓市聖誕列車現場擠滿人群。(周菊子攝)

波士頓市經濟及機會包容長Segun Idowu 歡迎華埠商家在牌照、
許可方面遇到問題時，和該辦公室周菊子攝)菊子攝)

波士頓市長策略夥伴顧問陳綽敏 (Steven Chan)帶著兩個小孩，
也來慶祝聖誕。(周菊子攝)

波士頓市議員Henry Santana (右)和Sharon Durkan(左)陪著市長進社區賀節。

波士頓華埠商會為會場佈置了雪人、巨型棒棒糖。 (周菊子攝)

波士頓市長吳弭(左)有求必應的和市民合影。(周菊子攝)

李氏公所主席李源沛湊熱鬧，和麋鹿合影。(周菊子攝)

MBTA和麻州交通廳攜手打破紀錄 募得2651件玩具

 MBTA Celebrates 24^th Annual Fill-A-Bus with Gifts Event 

MBTA General Manager Eng showcased one of the gifts benefiting the MSPCC,
the Boys and Girls Club of Boston, and Heading Home.
by the MBTA Customer and Employee Experience Department.

The 24^th Annual Fill-A-Bus with Gifts is sponsored by the MBTA and MassDOT with toys provided to the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, the Boys and Girls Club of Boston, and Heading Home. 

This year, MBTA and MassDOT employees donated 2,651 gifts – the highest-ever toy count for the Fill-A-Bus gift drive, surpassing the previous highest tally in 2023. 

MBTA General Manager Eng showcased one of the gifts benefiting the
MSPCC, the Boys and Girls Club of Boston, and Heading Home.
by MBTA Customer and Employee Experience Department.

BOSTON – Last Friday, across the City of Boston, the MBTA and Massachusetts Department of Transportation celebrated their 24^th Annual Fill-A-Bus with Gifts holiday drive. MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng and MBTA staff were at the State Transportation Building, and Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt and Registry of Motor Vehicle (RMV) employees were at the Boston RMV at Haymarket. 

“It is gratifying to have the MBTA, the Registry of Motor Vehicles, and other state agencies offer opportunities to help ensure that every child has a gift this holiday season,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt.  “This season, I encourage our employees and all members of the public to make an extra effort to perform a gesture of kindness, express a warm greeting, and take actions that convey a sense of caring toward others.” 

“Transportation workers from the MBTA and across MassDOT have shown tremendous generosity for over twenty years by filling a T bus with toys for young people during the holiday season,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “This event is entirely employee-driven and represents the true spirit of what we stand for as public servants – thank you to the many MBTA employees who organize this event every year and who offer gifts that fill our bus. I’m also grateful to our partners at the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, the Boys and Girls Club of Boston, and Heading Home for ensuring these gifts reach families during the holidays.” 

“The MBTA’s Fill-A-Bus with Gifts event is an opportunity to give something back during the holiday season with the Fill-A-Bus stopping at MBTA garages, RMV locations, MassDOT offices, and other locations each December,” said MBTA Graphics Manager David Wood who has organized the Fill-A-Bus with Gifts event for the last seven years. “Every year, I’m proud to see so many of my Transportation colleagues participate – the kindness offered by so many of our MBTA and MassDOT peers in their gift-giving is a joy that benefits so many during the holidays.” 

This year, MBTA and MassDOT employees donated 2,651 gifts – the highest-ever toy count for the Fill-A-Bus gift drive and surpassing the previous highest record in 2023 – to their Fill-A-Bus partners at the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (MSPCC), the Boys and Girls Club of Boston, and Heading Home. 

“In December 2023, MSPCC provided gifts to more than 900 children. For children supported by MSPCC, gifts from the MBTA and MassDOT Fill-A-Bus are more than ‘just toys – these gifts give children in our communities the ability to experience the joy of the holidays as well as a sense of belonging and self-worth,” said MSPCC Director of Development Melanie S. Lima. “Moreover, almost all MSPCC clients live in poverty, and our parents share with us their hopes to provide a joyful holiday for their children, but how finances are a challenge and a cause of stress. By providing families with gifts for their children, MSPCC, with the support of the MBTA Fill-A-Bus, is able to relieve some of that stress that comes with the holiday season, and provide a happy holiday for hundreds of children.” 

“Thank you, MBTA and MassDOT, for your continued support and partnership to bring joy, hope, and happiness to the underserved and under-resourced children and families we serve,” said Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston | Yawkey Club of Roxbury Chief Impact Officer Andrea Swain. “Toy donations provided by the MBTA Fill-A-Bus allow us to distribute toys to children ages 6-12 in need who are enrolled in our afterschool program or participate in our community outreach initiatives. Thanks to your generous donations, every member of our club receives at least one new toy. The impact of your donations is immeasurable.” 

“The support of the MBTA and MassDOT, via the Fill-a-Bus initiative, has enabled us to bring a little extra holiday cheer to all our families for multiple years and counting now. For our families and kids, it’s so much more than just toys – it’s a way to make shelter feel more like home every holiday season,” said Heading Home Donor Stewardship Manager Calleigh Hynes-Leach. “There’s nothing like the smiles on the kids’ faces when we’re able to drop off car-fulls and car-fulls of toys to our shelters and programs every December. From both our staff and clients, we are so grateful for the generosity of the MBTA and MassDOT and everyone who donates toys!” 

MBTA and MassDOT employees filled a bus with 2,651 gifts this year – the highest-ever toy count for the Fill-A-Bus gift drive. Complimentary photo by the MBTA Customer and Employee Experience Department.

亞裔企業賦權委員會訂11日舉辦假日夜市 鼓勵節假日買禮品找亞裔商家

              (Boston Orange 編譯) 波士頓基金會亞裔社區基金麾下的亞裔企業賦權委員會 (ABEC)，訂 12月11日(週三)下午5點至7點半 ，在波士頓基金會St. James街會址，舉辦2024「向亞裔商家買東西 (#ShopAAPI) 」的假日夜市活動，鼓勵亞裔彼此扶持，彰顯亞裔人才及創業精神。

活動當天將有37家亞裔商家在現場擺攤，展售琳瑯滿目的手工藝品、美味食物等各種商品。

美國小企業行政局 (SBA)麻州區主任Robert Nelson將和ABEC執行主任石青見 (Qingjian Shi) 簽署策略聯盟備忘錄，宣佈SBA將和ABEC正式合作，在整個麻州支持亞裔擁有、創辦的企業。

                            已登記參加活動的亞裔企業，不下37家，包括很多人都已熟悉的波士頓小西貢 (Boston Little Saigon)、美美餃子店  (Mei Mei Dumpling)，亞裔自創品牌的1587球鞋公司，武松路餐廳 (Wusong Road)，Rubato烘培店，以及不少以個人名字參加展售的個體戶，Shaina Lu、Katie Lee、Tracy Chang等等。

                        活動雖然免費，向公眾開放，但由於場地有限，主辦單位已於12月9日之前貼出截止報名告示，並鼓勵民眾在節慶假日期間關照亞裔商家，買禮品時，參考ABEC’s #ShopAAPI Holiday Gift Guide ，盡量向亞裔商家採購。(更新版)