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North Adams Fire Department Delivers Turkey Donation

By Jack GuerinoiBerkshires Staff
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NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Local firefighters not only fight fires, but hunger, too.

The North Adams Firefighters Local 1781 donated 20 turkeys to the Salvation Army on Monday afternoon to help those struggling to feed their families this holiday season.

Salvation Army Captain Katherine Corno said she received a call from the Fire Department asking if her organization would be interested in 20 turkeys.

Corno said with the closing of the hospital, the extra turkeys came at just the right moment.  

"The phone has ringing nonstop," Corno said. "This year, there is larger spike in families in need of aid and grandparents raising their grandchildren. There is no discrimination in needs, and we do the best we can do with what we have."

Firefighter Michael Goodson said the department usually tries to do something every year for the community. He said this year, firefighters decided to do a little extra because more people need help.

"This year we wanted to do a little something extra because there are a lot of people out there in need," Goodson said. "There are a lot of people out there that are having hard times. A lot of people don't have jobs and have to worry about Christmas, the holidays, and food so this is our way of giving back."

Fire Director Stephen Meranti said the local fire department tries to do more than just fighting fires.

"This shows these guys really do care about the community," Meranti said. "It goes beyond just fighting fires."

Corno said the turkeys will be handed out Tuesday through the pantry program. She said there are also hams available when the turkeys run out.


Tags: donations,   holiday story,   NAFD,   turkeys,   

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North Adams Public Library Announces Updated Early Literacy Programs for Families

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Youth Services Department of the North Adams Public Library has announced updates to its weekly early literacy programs.
 
Beginning Tuesday, April 15, "Wigglers & Crawlers" will be held for families with children aged 0-2 years. This program will be led by Youth Services Library Assistant, Ms. Nancy, and will take place weekly at 10:30 AM.
 
According to the announcement, "The Wigglers & Crawlers program is ideal for babies and toddlers from birth to 2 years old. Caregivers are encouraged to bring a small blanket, a favorite toy, and be ready for a cozy, joyful experience. Participants can expect gentle stories & rhymes, songs & movement, interactive play and bonding time. This program is replacing the current Tuesday “Toddler Time” program."
 
On Wednesday, April 16, "Junior Story Time" will be held for families with children aged 2-5 years. This program will be led by Youth Services Librarian, Ms. Holly, and will also take place weekly at 10:30 AM.
 
The announcement states, "Junior Story Time is ideal for children 2 to 5 years old. Ms. Holly will read engaging stories to captivate their young imaginations, sing songs, play games and create a craft based on the day's story to take home. This program will intentionally build language development, fine and gross motor skills, encourage critical thinking, strengthen early literacy skills to build a solid foundation and promote healthy social skills while preparing children for the pre-k and kindergarten setting. This program is replacing the current Wednesday 'Story Time' program."
 
The library is reportedly collaborating with the North Adams Public School district to align program goals with the school curriculum for school readiness skills.
 
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