Newton Health and Human Services

09/07/2026

Our office is closed today in observance of the holiday. Have a safe and healthy Labor Day.

09/04/2026

09/02/2026

National Su***de Prevention Month is a time to check in and remind others that help is available. Together, we can reduce stigma and build a community where no one has to struggle alone. For mental resources visit: https://ow.ly/pG6l50ZIfvq

08/23/2026

Governor Healey announced a one-year emergency order restricting kratom sales in MA. Residents are encouraged to recognize how these products may be packaged/sold and talk with children and teens about the potential health risks. Learn more at: https://ow.ly/uctU50ZBwrf

08/21/2026

Today is National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid linked to overdose deaths nationwide. Learn the risks, talk with loved ones, carry naloxone (Narcan), and know the signs of an overdose. Visit: https://ow.ly/n8NM50ZBzal

08/19/2026

BACKYARD BLUEPRINTS: CALLING ALL DESIGNERS!
Have an idea for a great detached ADU design? We want to see it!

📣SUBMISSIONS ARE OPEN UNTIL OCTOBER 9!

Who can apply? Architects, builders, manufacturers, designers, students, and other design professionals as individuals or teams are all encouraged to apply. No experience requirements!

What do you need to submit?
• A brief design narrative
• Signed contract
• Floor plans
• Elevations
• Building sections
• Renderings (optional but encouraged)
• Simplified public-facing floor plans (optional but encouraged)

All submissions must include plans stamped by a Massachusetts Registered Professional Engineer or Registered Architect.

The top designs with the most votes by public voting will win cash prizes!

🥇 1st Place — $5,000
🥈 2nd Place — $4,000
🥉 3rd Place — $3,000

Here’s the exciting part: all designs that meet applicable codes and ordinances will be made available for homeowners to purchase for a fixed $1,000 fee paid to the design owner, helping turn great ideas into real ADUs in Newton .

Learn more: Visit newtonma.gov/adu for all eligibility requirements, design criteria, the application, contract, FAQs, and more.

08/18/2026

New to Newton—or simply want to discover more about your city?
Join us for a FREE Welcome to Newton Open House and celebrate the launch of our new Welcome to Newton program!
Meet city staff and local nonprofits that help make Newton such a special place to live. Learn about the services, programs, resources, and support available to residents—and find new ways to connect with your community.
No registration needed, just stop by to say hello! Details at www.newtonma.gov

08/13/2026

Hot weather can be dangerous for pets! Keep them cool with plenty of fresh water and shade, avoid hot pavement, and never leave them in a parked car—even for a few minutes. Learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-pets.html

08/11/2026

Stretch your SNAP benefits with the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)! Get extra funds each month to purchase fresh, healthy produce from participating local farms and farmers’ markets. No additional sign-up is needed for SNAP recipients.

08/09/2026

📢 MassHealth members: Federal changes may affect your coverage and benefits. Stay informed and learn what these changes could mean for you and your family. Visit: https://www.mass.gov/federal-changes-affecting-masshealth-medicaid-members