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A green background with a big DEAF, Inc. logo at the center. At the bottom reads the following text, “Community Newsletter April 2024”. Images of DEAF, Inc. female staff and community members are shown on the left and right.

EVENTS
A flyer for a "Special Community Health Lecture" with a focus on brain health, titled "LOVING YOUR BRAIN: TIPS FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH." The event is scheduled for Sunday, May 5th, from 10 AM to 12 PM, though the specific room location is to be announced (TBA). The lecture is affiliated with BU Deaf Studies, as indicated by the logo at the top of the flyer. The flyer features a colorful background with brain imagery and lightning bolts to symbolize mental activity. A "Save the Date" notice is prominent, and a QR code is provided for what is likely RSVP or more information. The text on the flyer challenges the belief that dementia is inevitable due to genetics and emphasizes that there is a lot that can be done to minimize the risk of developing dementia. The lecture promises to teach about risk factors for cognitive decline and how to maintain brain health for clarity and vitality. A notice at the bottom indicates that space is limited and requests that attendees RSVP before April 12th by using the QR code. Additionally, there is a section dedicated to Jackie (Emmart) Gonzalez, described as a Community Health Coach, CrossFit Coach, and ASL Interpreter from Hawaii. The text shares a personal story about her mission to educate communities on brain health after her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at the age of 61. The flyer includes a photograph of Jackie Gonzalez, and it underscores the message that much is in one's control regarding brain health, suggesting that proactive measures should be taken.

Click above to view the flyer

BU Deaf Studies

Special Community Health Lecture

Loving Your Brain: Tips for Optimal Health
Sunday, May 5, 2024 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm


Learn what to do to optimize your brain for years of clarity, connections, and being able to live life to its fullest!

Jackie (Emmart) Gonzalez is a Community Health Coach, CrossFit Coach, and ASL Interpreter who lives in Hawai'i. 


When her mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's five years ago at the young age of 61, it became Jackie's mission to educate our communities about everything we - including her mom - weren't being told about how to take care of our brains. 


Click to RSVP
This flyer is organized by the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH). It announces the event taking place in the Southeast region on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Fall River Public Library, located at 104 N Main St, Fall River, MA. And also encourages participants to come and express their needs and suggestions to MCDHH regarding services and community support improvements. There is also a link for registration: https://massgov.formstack.com/forms/mcdhh_regional_listening_session_5_7. As well as 2 QR codes, one for an ASL video and another that must be accessed a week in advance so you can be properly registered if you can't enter the web link for any reason. The purpose of the handout is to engage the community and solicit feedback that could help MCDHH enhance its services and support for the deaf and hard of hearing in the Southeast region.
The flyer is for an in-person regional listening session organized by the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH). It is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, May 7, at the Fall River Public Library, located at 104 N Main St., Fall River, MA 02720. The event runs from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. It also highlights that ASL interpreters and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) services will be available. Attendees requiring other forms of accommodation, such as tactile interpreters, are asked to contact MCDHH at least two weeks in advance via email at heather.l.daley@mass.gov or by phone at (857) 491-0750. Participants are required to RSVP one week before the event, and they can register through a provided email address or a link to an online form (https://massgov.formstack.com/forms/mcdhh_regional_listening_session_5_7). The session aims to gather feedback from attendees to shape the future of MCDHH's services and programs, emphasizing the importance of public input in fostering positive change.

Click above to view the flyer

Massachusetts Commission of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Regional Listening Sessions: Southeast Region

Tuesday May 7, 2024 from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Fall River Public Library
104 N Main St
Fall River, MA

Share Your Opinions With Us!


- What services do you need?
- What support is needed in the community?
- How can MCDHH serve you better?


Voice interpreting and CART will be provided. 


RSVP Required: Please RSVP one week before the event. Your confirmation enables us prepare for an inclusive and meaningful discussion.


ASL Interpreters and CART will be present. If you will be attending, and require any other form of accommodation, such as tactile interpreters, please contact Heather Daley at heather.l.daley@mass.gov at least two weeks in advance.
White background with green, pink, and yellow floral and leaves around the page. Green text at the top reads “SPRING BINGO!” The address is listed in grey text: Central Mass. Deaf Senior Center, Held at the College of the Holy Cross, 1 College Street, Worcester, MA, Mahoney Way, Hogan Campus Center. The text below it explains how to prepare for the event, including what to wear and to bring your $10 dues. A chart showing the dates is shown, with the next events happening on March 28, April 4, 18, and May 23, and 30. A red exclamation mark warns that rooms may be subject to change. An icon of money and text next to it suggests bringing cash in small dollar bills.

Click above to view the flyer

SPRING BINGO!

College of the Holy Cross

1 College Street
Worcester, MA 01610

Mahoney Way, Hogan Campus Center


Presented by Central Massachusetts Deaf Senior Center


Bingo Dates

Thursday, May 23 - Room 406

Thursday May 30 - Room 406


Contact: Juanita Pellitier at 860-481-7151
White background with red accents. Northeastern University logo for the ASL and Interpreting Education department is on the right. At the top, black text reads “SAVE THE DATE! FRIDAY APRIL 26 & 27 2024” Below is the logo of the Marie Philip Competition and red block containing white text reading “22ND ANNUAL GEORGE W. VEDITZ ASL FESTIVAL” Link: https://cssh.northeastern.edu/asl/events

Click above to view the flyer

Save the Date - Marie Philip Competition and 22nd Annual George W. Veditz ASL Festival

Friday, April 26, 2024 and Saturday, April 27, 2024


This event at Northeastern University hosts the 22nd Annual George W. Veditz ASL Festival as well as the Marie J. Philip Competition. 


More details TBA! 


For more information go to https://cssh.northeastern.edu/asl/events
A flyer for an event titled "ASL PAINT NIGHT!" featuring local deaf artist Takiyah Harris. The event is presented in American Sign Language (ASL) and voice interpreted into English. It's scheduled for Saturday, May 4th, 2024 at 5 PM. The location for the event is Rock Church North Shore, with the address provided as 58 Macy Street, Amesbury, MA 01913. A photograph of Takiyah Harris is included on the flyer. She is smiling and wearing glasses, and a necklace. For contact, the flyer lists an email address: Deafministry@rock-church.org. The overall design is straightforward, focusing on the event details and the featured artist.

Rock Church North Shore

ASL Paint Night: Featuring Local Deaf Artist Takiyah Harris

Saturday, May 4, 2024 | 5:00pm - 8:00pm

58 Macy Street Amesbury MA 01913


Presented in ASL. Voice Interpretered into English.


Contact: deafministry@rock-church.org
A white flyer with cutout people (blue, green, and purple) celebrating with each other. At the very top is the “hand in hand” logo. The flyer greets the reader with the following text, “HAND IN HAND A Program for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children and Their Families The Children's Center for Communication/ Beverly School for the Deaf 6 Echo Ave. Beverly, MA 01915 Upcoming Events Time: 9:30am -12:00pm Free and open to all families with DHH children *Child care provided for children under 7 February 3, 2024 - Free Play in the Gym March 2, 2024 - Family Resources April 6, 2024 - Next Steps: Transitioning out of El May 4, 2024 - Interpreting 101 June 1, 2024 - Free Play e CCCBSD playground What to expect: • Meet and greet for caregivers • Structured play and snack for children • Educational presentation for caregivers For more information email pip@cccbsd.org or call 978-927-7070 ext. 200.” At the bottom of the flyer there is also a purple strip.

Click above to view the flyer

Hand in Hand: A Program for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children and their Families 

Saturday, May 4, 2024 - Interpreting 101 | 9:30am - 12:00 pm


The Children's Center for Communications/Beverly School for the Deaf

6 Echo Avenue

Beverly, MA 01915


Free and open to all families with DHH children. *Child care provided for children under 7.


Upcoming Events

June 1 - Free Play @ CCCBSD playground 


What to expect

• Meet and greet for caregivers

• Structured play and snack for children

• Educational presentation for caregivers


For more information email pip@cccbsd.org or call 978-927-7070 ext. 200
This flyer is for a "Regional Listening Session" organized by the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH). The session is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM in the Boston Metro Region. It will be held at Roxbury Community College, Building 3, Room 113G Commons 4, located at 1234 Columbus Ave., Roxbury, MA 02120. The flyer encourages people to join an in-person regional listening session where feedback will shape the future of MCDHH's services and programs. It stresses that input from participants is valuable and will contribute to positive change. RSVP is required for attendance and must be done one week before the event to ensure an inclusive and meaningful discussion. Accommodations for attendees include the presence of ASL interpreters and CART services. Those requiring additional accommodations, such as tactile interpreters, are requested to contact MCDHH at least two weeks in advance. For convenience, there is a QR code linking to an ASL video, as well as an icon indicating the possibility to "Register here," suggesting that the QR code may link to a registration page. Contact information provided on the flyer includes an email address, heather.l.daley@mass.gov, and a phone number, (857) 491-0750. The MCDHH logo is prominently displayed at the top left corner, establishing the flyer's official connection to the organization
This flyer is a monochrome design, featuring text and symbols for an event. At the top, the logo of the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH) is visible. The flyer announces a "REGIONAL LISTENING SESSION" and invites participants to join an in-person session in the Boston Metro Region to provide feedback on MCDHH's services and programs, emphasizing the impact of their input on positive change. The details of the event are as follows: Date: Tuesday, May 21 Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Location: Roxbury Community College, Building 3, Room 113G Commons 4, 1234 Columbus Ave., Roxbury, MA 02120 The flyer states that American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters and CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) will be available. It also requests that if additional accommodations are needed, such as tactile interpreters, attendees should contact MCDHH at least two weeks in advance. An RSVP is required one week before the event, and there are two QR codes: one that presumably links to an ASL video, indicated by the symbol of a video camera, and the other for registering for the event, marked with the text "Register here." Contact information is provided at the bottom of the flyer, including an email address, heather.l.daley@mass.gov, and a phone number, (857) 491-0750.

Click above to view the flyer

Massachusetts Commission of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Regional Listening Sessions: Boston Metro Region

Tuesday May 21, 2024 from 5:30 - 7:30 pm


Roxbury Community College

Building 3, Room 113G Commons 4
1234 Columbus Ave.
Roxbury, MA 02120

Share Your Opinions With Us!


- What services do you need?
- What support is needed in the community?
- How can MCDHH serve you better?


Voice interpreting and CART will be provided. 


RSVP Required: Please RSVP one week before the event. Your confirmation enables us prepare for an inclusive and meaningful discussion.


ASL Interpreters and CART will be present. If you will be attending, and require any other form of accommodation, such as tactile interpreters, please contact Heather Daley at heather.l.daley@mass.gov at least two weeks in advance.
A white background flyer shows the image of three tall buildings with a massive red apple between them, the text reads, “2024 ADARA Conference May 29 - June 1, 2024 RECOVER RECHARGE RECONNECT ADARA”

2024 American Deafness and Rehabilitation Association (ADARA) Conference

May 29 - June 1, 2024

Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center

100 CNN Center

Atlanta, GA 30303


 Join us for the in-person 2024 ADARA Conference on May 29 to June 1, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia. This conference is an excellent opportunity to gain new information, share your experiences, and hone your professional skills.


Click here for the details.
An image of a classroom with empty desks.

Comprehensive School Threat Assessment Guidelines (CSTAG) Workshop

May 29, 2024

Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center

100 CNN Center

Atlanta, GA 30303


This workshop will teach attendees a structured way to assess threats using the Comprehensive School Threat Assessment Guidelines (CSTAG). The model has many similarities to models used by federal law enforcement. While the CSTAG model is designed for schools, there are many applications of the model in private agencies.


This training is being offered as part of the ADARA conference which is being held May 29th - June 1st, 2024. You are able to register for this in depth training without attending the full ADARA
conference.


Click here for the details.

Join us at DEAF Inc.'s

Goal Getters 5K Walk/Run!
5k Walk/Run Postponement Announcement
[Image description: Purple background. White DEAF, Inc. logo at the top. Yellow text reads “Accomplish with us!“. Two white hands signing GOAL is below it. In white and yellow text, GOAL GETTERS 5K Walk/Run Fundraiser. People at the bottom walk and run, one is in a wheelchair, one has a guide and a cane, and one is pushing a stroller. A peach colored rectangle contains expectations of the event and a map of the route. Event is on April 27, 8:30 am to 12 pm, starts at 50 Hunt Street, Watertown, MA 02472. April 1 - $30, at the door $40. Register! www.bit.ly/5KGoalGetters]

Click above to view the flyer

Goal Getters 5K Walk/Run Fundraiser

Saturday, June 1, 2024 | 8:30 AM - 12:00PM

DEAF, Inc. Watertown Office 

50 Hunt Street, Watertown, MA


Lace-up your sneakers for a day filled with community spirit and movement!
Participants can look forward to an enjoyable experience, whether walking or running, alongside fellow community members. Everyone will receive DEAF, Inc. souvenirs as a token of participation, and refreshments will be provided to keep you energized.


The event goes beyond the 5K with face painting, vendors, and activities, a day of fun and engagement.


Register today at bit.ly/5KGoalGetters!
Purple background with white Goal Getters logo in the top right. A group of runners are pictured on the left on a rectangular yellow block. The block has black text that reads “VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY” White DEAF, Inc. logo in the middle in a light purple circle. Text reads: Learn some ASL! Support DEAF, Inc.! Have a fun day! Give to our community! Volunteers needed from 7 am - 1 pm, Variety of roles available, All are welcome Fill out our short interest application: bit.ly/deafinc5kvolunteer. Event Date: Saturday April 27, 2024, Volunteers needed from 7 am to 1 pm. Location: DEAF, Inc. Office, 50 Hunt Street, Watertown, MA 02472.

Click above to view the flyer

VOLUNTEERS - We are looking for you!


Learn some ASL! Support DEAF, Inc.! Have a fun day! Give to our community!

  • Volunteers needed from 7 am - 1 pm

  • Variety of roles available

  • All are welcome

Fill out our short interest application: bit.ly/deafinc5kvolunteer
A dark purple background flyer with the goal 5k walk/run logo on the upper right side. To the left there is an image of many people run/walking/rolling on the yellow box that says, “EXHIBITOR OPPORTUNITY.” With the flyer there is a circle with the DEAF, Inc. logo at the very top and the following information below it, “Join us at DEAF, Inc.'s 5K Walk/Run on Saturday, April 27, 2024! Share your information with the community! Exhibits open 8 am to 12 pm Check-in starts 7:30 am This event is outdoors in fresh air.” Outside the circle at the bottom of the flyer is a QR code and additional information, Event Date: Saturday, April 27, 2024 8 am - 12:30 am Location: Parking lot at DEAF, Inc. Office 50 Hunt Street, Watertown, MA 02472 Questions? Contact volunteer@deafincma.org or call the Front Desk at 617-505-4823 Above the QR code says the following, “EXHIBITOR SIGN-UP www.bit.ly/DEAFInc5kExhibitor.”

Click above to view the flyer

EXHIBITORS - We are looking for you!


Share your information with the community!

  • Exhibits open 8 am to 12 pm

  • Check-in starts 7:30 am

  • This event is outdoors in fresh air

Fill out our short interest application: bit.ly/DEAFInc5kExhibitor
HLAA 2024 convention logo on white background. Phoenix AZ, June 26-29, 2024 in green text.

HLAA 2024 Convention, Resort-Style! 

Phoenix, Arizona | June 26 - 29, 2024


Join us in Phoenix for our first resort-style HLAA 2024 Convention at the beautiful Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass. Whether it’s your first convention or the latest of many, you are sure to learn, grow, discover
new technology and connect with hundreds of new and old friends.


Be inspired by General Session keynote speaker Shanna Adamic.

  • Explore The Emotional Side of Hearing Loss at our Research Symposium.

  • Enjoy the Exhibit Hall, educational workshops, product demos and social events:

  • "Welcome Back Bash"

  • "Celebrate! Awards gala honoring hearing heroes"

Discover amenities inspired by the rich culture of the indigenous Gila River Indian Community, which owns this unique resort.


Click here to get more info & register now!
Cape Cod Deaf Expo, MA, from Aug 23-28, 2024. Deaf Awareness Week, details TBD. Gala event info pending. Free craft/vendor fair on Aug 24, 10am-8pm with art, jewelry, and gifts. Booth reservations at newenglanddeaf.com/cc/rsvp.html. DEAF SHOW CAR featured. Open to public, ASL, and COLA communities. At The Emerald Resort, 35 Scudder Ave, Hyannis. Book rooms via Martha at 860-866-1324 or newenglanddeafe@yahoo.com. Further info at newenglanddeaf.com/cc/info.html. Food, drinks, and activities are available. Celebrating New England Deaf's 10th anniversary.

Click above to view the flyer

Cape Cod Deaf Expo
August 23 - 28, 2024 

The Emerald Resort Conference Center

35 Scudder Avenue, Hyannis, MA 02601


Mark your calendars for a fun week of events in Cape Cod this August! The Cape Cod Deaf Expo will be on August 23, and will have a week of events following the expo. 


Get your hotel and travel plans figured out, as August will be an opportunity to socialize, shop, and enjoy each other's company. 


To register, go to https://www.newenglanddeaf.com/

Community News

Darian Gambrell Got Selected as One of The Boston Foundation's Movement Leaders
DEAF, Inc.’s Executive Director, Darian Gambrell on stage amongst five other organization leaders who won $675,000 each from The Boston Foundation, the six recipients were dubbed “Movement Leaders” during the award ceremony
DEAF, Inc.’s staff & board, community members, and Darian Gambrell gathered around taking a group picture for the $675,000 won from The Boston Foundation “Movement Leaders” ceremony.
A large slide “Investment” “$625K per leader/org. over three years. $225k Annual Investment per Leader/Org. General Operating Support, Wellness Funding, Technical Assistance and Capacity Building, Emergency Funding. 3 years of sustained support for 5 regional Movement Leaders vital to the social justice ecosystem. Partner with Nonprofit Sector Infrastructure team for holistic wrap-around “beyond the grant” support. Collaborative journey and on-boarding process | non-transactional partnerships.”

DEAF, Inc. is thrilled to share that our organization and executive director Darian Gambrell has been selected as one of The Boston Foundation’s movement leaders.


Each nonprofit organization and movement leader will receive $675,000 over three years as part of the Shifting Power, Advancing Justice focus area. The funding would support general operations, wellness, technical assistance, capacity building, and can be used for emergencies.


“These six movement leaders each play a central role in their organizations and in the broader community. They are difference makers, shaping collective action that improves lives and drives social and economic change,” said M. Lee Pelton, president and CEO of the Boston Foundation.


Meet the leaders and learn more about this partnership here: https://bit.ly/3U94HKc


Our deepest gratitude to The Boston Foundation for this support, recognition, and incredible opportunity. Handwaves!!

ASL Tours at Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Logo of Museum of Fine Arts Boston with a red square and white “MFA” text inside.


Come visit the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston!


The Museum of Fine Arts offers a free guided tour in ASL with no spoken English for MFA members and visitors who are fluent in ASL. Guided tours in ASL occur on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:00pm.


To participate, just pick up an admission ticket from any cashier anytime after 4pm and meet your guide in the Sharf Visitor Center just before 6:00pm. Latecomers should check with the staff at Sharf for the location of the tour.


For more information please find them online.

ASL Interpreters at New England Aquarium
Logo of the New England Aquarium with a blue striped circle with a white outlined fish icon in the middle.

Come visit the New England Aquarium!


An American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter is available from 12:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. on the first Sunday of every month.


For more information, please find them online.

Massachusetts State Association

of the Deaf (MSAD)

Community Announcement
A 4-way Zoom call screenshot of a meeting with MSAD, everyone is waving with smiles on their faces. A red video play button is in the center.

President Wood announced the resignation of Vice President of Operations Kellynette Gomez, who is pursuing a new opportunity at Our Deaf Survivors Center as a board member. President Wood appointed Lori Siedman as the new VP of Operations, welcoming her to the executive board. Another new board member, Mohamed Abanoor. He is a Deaf policeman. President Wood has assigned him new tasks, including E911 and others. More announcements will be made through MSAD, including ASL news updates. Vice President of Community Relations, Ivy Velez, discussed her role in outreach to the community to encourage membership. Sal Pineda, Membership Coordinator, explained membership benefits, including voting rights, networking opportunities, access to events, and staying informed with updates. Membership options were also detailed. The executive board shared their experiences and the benefits of joining MSAD.


Come and join us! www.massdeaf.org

Other Resources

Deaf Focus:

"Self-Care is How to Take Your Power Back"
A image with a red soft rectangle and a white triangle representing play icon with Social Worker, Amy Shamburger behind it, and the following text above, “"Self-Care: is how you take your power back."

Click above to watch video.

Deaf Cycling Group
Black and white photo of bicycles leaning against a fence on an outdoor deck.

A Facebook group for Deaf, DeafBlind, Hard of Hearing, and Late Deafened people who like Cycling. Hearing ASL users are welcome. Group meet-ups for rides and information sharing. 


Click this link to join/learn more!

ASL SPACE:

TGWS (Thank God We're Sober)

ALL MEETINGS Eastern Standard Time (EST)
ALL MEETINGS ARE OPEN (ANYONE IS WELCOME)


SUNDAY
7pm to 8:15pm 

RECOVERY DHARMA 

ID - 942 608 395 65; PW 009060


MONDAY
1pm to 2pm* 

ALL RECOVERY MEETING

D 627 244 220; PW 010149


7pm to 8pm 

DUAL RECOVERY ANOYMOUS

ID 951 0728 5190; PW KL123


TUESDAY
7pm to 8pm

N.A. MEETING

ID 188 837 193; PW 003465


THURSDAY
12pm to 1pm

AL-Anon/Discussion

ID 597 893 497; PW 011461
7pm to 8pm All Recovery discussion MEETING - (OPEN) ID - 627 244 220; PW 010149


FRIDAY
1pm to 2pm* ALL RECOVERY MEETING- ID 627 244 220; PW 010149


* Time change


TGWS recongize that there is not just one pathway to recovery. Our common purpose is to create a safe and supportive enivorment for all who wish to fin freedom from addiction. Please be mindful of this recent update and share. Thank you.

Emergency Services Card
Wooden table with several emergency services card on the table unfolded, showing the icons and diagrams inside.

The Emergency Service Card is designed to assist EMT’s, firefighters and Deaf and hard of hearing individuals communicate better in the first moments of an emergency.


MCDHH, in partnership with the Department of Fire Services (DFS) and Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS), has created a visual tool called the Emergency Services Card (ESC) to assist EMT’s, firefighters and Deaf and hard of hearing individuals communicate better in the first moments of an emergency.


Click here for the details. 

COVID-19 and Flu Information

Vaccinations: What You Need to Know
A flyer with a split dark blue and light blue background titled, “COVID-19 & Flu Vaccine” in the dark blue section. There is also an image of two medical professionals in scrubs holding needles, behind a DEAF, Inc. logo. The light blue section reads, “What can it do? Significantly reduce the risk of severe COVID-19. Reduce the risk of severe Flu-related illness by 40%-60%. Who is eligible? Most people over 6 months old are eligible for the vaccine series or a booster. When to get immunized? COVID-19: Immediately, if never vaccinated. Othewise, consult with a healthcare provider about a booster dose. Flu: Fall, ideally by the end of October. For more information, consult your healthcare provider.” A yellow strip at the bottom of the flyer shows the source information, “SOURCE: covid19.nih.gov/news-and-stories/bivalent-boosters-offer-better-protection-against-omicron SOURCE: cdc.gov/flu/vaccines-work/vaccineeffect.htm “
An informational flyer about COVID vaccines titled, “COVID Vaccine: Fast Facts The updated COVID vaccine is here. What to know: ” It features a healthcare professional pointing to key points: The updated COVID vaccine provides protection against new variants. You need an updated vaccine if you haven’t had one since September 12, 2023. Everyone aged 5 years and older should get 1 dose of an updated COVID vaccine—even if you’ve never been vaccinated before. Children aged 6 months to 4 years need between 1-3 doses. Ask your health care provider what’s right for your child. You may still get COVID after getting an updated vaccine, but your risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death are greatly reduced. At the very bottom shows the following, “Check with your health care provider or visit mass.gov/CovidVaccine” next to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health logo.


Learn fast facts about the COVID vaccine!


To schedule an appointment, go to mass.gov/CovidVaccine

Vaccinations for Adults 65+ and Older

Last week, the CDC voted to recommend an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose for adults ages 65 and older.


Looking for a COVID-19 vaccine? You can:

COVID-19 Tests and Treatment
The image is an informational flyer promoting the availability of free at-home COVID-19 tests. The flyer details how to order the tests and includes the following points: It announces "Order your FREE AT-HOME COVID-19 TESTS TODAY ON COVIDTests.gov!" Every home in the U.S. is eligible to receive free at-home tests. Additional free tests are available starting November 20, and if you haven't ordered tests in the fall, you may place two orders for a total of eight tests. The process of ordering tests is described as easy and quick, involving three steps: visiting COVIDTests.gov, filling out contact and shipping information, and submitting the order. The tests will arrive in a few weeks. If assistance is needed in placing an order, a helpline is provided with the number 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489), offering help in English, Spanish, and more than 150 other languages. The flyer includes the logo of ASPR (Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response) and a picture of a smiling woman holding a COVID-19 test swab.

Click the flyer above to learn more about how to get free COVID-19 tests
The flyer provides information about free telehealth services for COVID-19 treatment pills, specifically within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in partnership with Color. It is targeted at individuals aged 12 and older who have COVID-19 symptoms. Here's a summary of the flyer's content: Title: "Free, quick, and easy telehealth for COVID-19 Treatment Pills" If you have COVID-19 symptoms, you can get a free telehealth visit to obtain COVID-19 treatment pills. Oral antiviral treatment is suitable for those with symptoms for 5 days or less, which may reduce the risk of severe disease and prevent hospitalization. Pills can be delivered for free or picked up at a local pharmacy if prescribed. For more information or additional assistance, the flyer directs to mass.gov/COVIDtelehealth or treatments@color.com. To start the free visit, you can use a smartphone or computer to visit color.com/covid-19-treatment-ma or scan the QR code provided. A hotline is also available at 833-450-3461. The flyer explains the process in three steps: Step 1: Go to the website or call the hotline and describe your symptoms. Step 2: Join the video or phone call for the consultation. Step 3: If prescribed antiviral treatment, pick it up at a pharmacy or opt for home delivery. Telehealth appointments are available from 8 am to 10 pm Eastern Time, seven days a week. The design includes the logo of Color and the seal of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Click the flyer above to learn more about how to get a Telehealth appointment and treatment

for COVID-19
Flyer with a blue banner titled “Need proof of your COVID-19 vaccination?” with a smart phone and card icons on the right below that. “The My Vax Records tool lets you access your COVID-19 digital vaccine card and your vaccination history from the Massachusetts Immunization Information System (MIIS). My Vax Records uses the SMART Health Card platform to produce a COVID-19 digital vaccine card, which can be saved on your smartphone as a handy way to show you have received COVID-19 vaccination. The My Vax Records website follows national standards for security and privacy and for the first time enables residents to directly access their vaccination records stored in the Massachusetts. Immunization Information System (MIIS), including their COVID-19 vaccination record. Below that, “Get started at MyVaxRecords.mass.gov” at the bottom with three logos on the right.

Click the flyer above to learn more about how to get proof of your COVID-19 vaccination.

Crime and Crisis Information
A white and gray flyer with the image of hands at the top and this text everywhere else, “Are you the victim of a crime? THE DISABILITY LAW CENTER MIGHT BE ABLE TO HELP! The Disability Law Center provides FREE civil legal assistance to Persons with Disabilities who are also victims of crime, even when the crime was not reported to the police. If you live in Massachusetts or the civil legal issue is in Massachusetts, give us a call to see if we can help! CALL US TODAY AT 1-800-872-9992 WE MAY BE ABLE TO HELP YOU IF: • THE CRIME LEFT YOU DISABLED. For example: if an abuser's attack resulted in a traumatic brain injury or PTSD. • YOUR DISABILITY MADE YOU A TARGET OF CRIME. For example: if the person responsible for managing your money is misusing it for themseires. • YOUR DISABILITY MAKES IT DIFFICULT TO GET HELP. For example: if you would like to file a restraining order or you need to appear in court, but your disabiity makes it difficult for you to talk to court staff or to the judge. Call us with legal questions about: • Housing • Employment • Healthcare • Disability rights • Financial exploitation • Education / higher education For more information, please email us at mailiadis-ma.org or visit our website at ww.dis-ma.org DLC can arrange for American Sign Language and foreign language interpreters or other accommodations that you may need.” With the DLC and CLAV logos at the bottom.

Click the flyer above to learn more about contacting Disability Law Center.
Be Red Cross Ready in American Sign Language - Woman in front of a teal background with a Red Cross logo next to her.

Click the video above to learn and watch the Be Red Cross Ready ASL Video.

Social Security and SNAP Resources
This image is an informational notice about how to get help from Social Security. It explains several ways individuals can access services and the guidelines for visiting an office in person. Titled, "How to Get Help from Social Security" It advises people to go online to the SSA.gov website, stating it's the best way for most people to get help. If the website is not an option, it suggests calling the National 800 Number (1-800-772-1213) or a local Social Security office. It notes that they will schedule an appointment for you, if necessary, to be served by phone or in person. The notice also mentions that in-office appointments are no longer required but are strongly recommended. For those who must visit an office, the notice provides the following information: Masks are required for all office visitors and employees. A mask will be provided if you don't have one. Visitor capacity is limited, which may mean waiting outside, so visitors should plan for the weather. Visitors are asked to come alone unless help is needed with the visit. If help is needed, only one adult may join. Children are permitted. The notice concludes with a request for patience and understanding and notes that some offices may be temporarily closed or only provide service by appointment due to various reasons such as construction or emergency situations. A website link is provided for more information: www.ssa.gov/emergency. At the bottom of the notice, there's a tagline "Securing today and tomorrow," alongside the SSA.gov website link and the Social Security Administration's logo, along with icons for Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. The fine print at the bottom includes contact information for the Social Security Administration and a note that the document is produced and published at U.S. taxpayer expense.

Click the flyer above to learn more about getting help from Social Security.
The flyer provides information about free telehealth services for COVID-19 treatment pills, specifically within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in partnership with Color. It is targeted at individuals aged 12 and older who have COVID-19 symptoms. Here's a summary of the flyer's content: Title: "Free, quick, and easy telehealth for COVID-19 Treatment Pills" If you have COVID-19 symptoms, you can get a free telehealth visit to obtain COVID-19 treatment pills. Oral antiviral treatment is suitable for those with symptoms for 5 days or less, which may reduce the risk of severe disease and prevent hospitalization. Pills can be delivered for free or picked up at a local pharmacy if prescribed. For more information or additional assistance, the flyer directs to mass.gov/COVIDtelehealth or treatments@color.com. To start the free visit, you can use a smartphone or computer to visit color.com/covid-19-treatment-ma or scan the QR code provided. A hotline is also available at 833-450-3461. The flyer explains the process in three steps: Step 1: Go to the website or call the hotline and describe your symptoms. Step 2: Join the video or phone call for the consultation. Step 3: If prescribed antiviral treatment, pick it up at a pharmacy or opt for home delivery. Telehealth appointments are available from 8 am to 10 pm Eastern Time, seven days a week. The design includes the logo of Color and the seal of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Click the flyer above for SNAP information. 

Need a New or Replacement

Social Security Card?


Need a new card?


You can visit the SSA website to begin the process. You’ll answer a series of questions to determine whether you can:

  • Complete the application process online.
  • Start the application process online, then bring any required documents to your local Social Security office or card center to complete the application.
  • Complete the application process at your local office.

Need to replace your card? 


Depending on your situation, you may be able to request a replacement card without visiting a local office. The Card Replacement Screener on our Replace Social Security card page helps you determine the best way to do so. Choose Answer a few questions to get started.


In most states, you can use your personal my Social Security account to request a replacement card. Even if you can’t complete the process online and must visit an office, you can still save yourself time by starting the application online.
DEAF, Inc. Contributions/Donation Appeal Video

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617-505-4823 or frontdesk@deafincma.org.

DEAF, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) agency funded through government contracts, private funding and donations. This newsletter developed with support from: MA Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, City of Boston’s Office of Jobs and Community Development Block Grant, Executive Office of Elder Affairs, City of Boston’s Age Strong Commission, Cummings Foundation Grant and United Way Massachusetts Bay/Merrimack Valley (in the Greater Attleboro/Taunton Region), Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands, Coastline Elder Services, Inc., Federal Administration for Community Living, HRiA - MA COVID-19 Community Grants, USCIS Innovations in Citizenship Grant, Massachusetts Service Alliance, HealthCare for All, MassHealth, Commonwealth Care Alliance, Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission – Title VII Part B, Liberty Mutual, Sanofi Genzyme, Boston Evening Clinic, Bushrod Campbell, Association for the Relief of Aged Women of New Bedford