Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
Why “Lift Every Voice and Sing” matters: the story and significance of the Black National Anthem
A recent issue of the 28 Days of Black History newsletter from Feb. 8, 2026, highlights the history and lasting impact of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” widely known as the Black National Anthem.
Honoring Black History Month: figures to learn from, organizations to support, and why it matters
Black History Month marks more than a moment of recognition; it reflects a century-long effort to ensure that Black history, scholarship, and lived experiences are remembered, taught, and valued.
February is National Heart Month: tips to protect your heart
February is National Heart Month, a time to focus on habits that help prevent heart disease and support long-term cardiovascular health.
Patriots Super Bowl return prompts Town reminder on grease and wipe disposal
With the New England Patriots headed back to the Super Bowl, excitement is building for game-day gatherings, watch parties, and plenty of football food.
Massachusetts DPH shares recommended immunization schedule for children and adolescents
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has released its recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule for ages 18 and younger, offering families and caregivers a clear roadmap for routine vaccinations from birth through the teen years.
Chamber event highlights how domestic violence impacts the workplace
A Lunch & Learn program focused on Domestic Violence in the Workplace brought employers, HR professionals, and community members together on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Presence&Co on Main Street. The session, organized by the Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce, focused on education, awareness, and practical workplace responses to domestic violence.
January is Thyroid Awareness Month
January is Thyroid Awareness Month, bringing attention to thyroid health and the conditions that affect millions of people each year.
RMLD shares storm preparedness tips ahead of possible Sunday-Monday winter storm
A potential winter storm is forecasted for Sunday evening into Monday, bringing the possibility of snow, wind, and power outages. The Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) is urging residents to monitor local forecasts and review its Storm Preparation Guide to stay safe and informed before, during, and after the storm.
January is Cervical Awareness Month
January is recognized as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of prevention, screening, and early detection.
Lunch & Learn highlights nutrition resources for Reading residents
Residents gathered at the Pleasant Street Center on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Lunch & Learn titled Fresh, Affordable, Local: Your Guide to Better Nutrition. The presentation offered practical advice and local resources designed to help residents make healthy food choices on any budget.
January is National Blood Donor Month
January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to recognize the lifesaving impact of blood donors and encourage residents to give during one of the most critical periods of the year.
How to prevent Norovirus this winter
Norovirus is a highly contagious illness that commonly circulates during the winter months, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. While it can occur at any time of year, norovirus illnesses are most common between November and April.
Holiday reminder: what not to recycle this season in Reading
With the holiday season upon us, many Reading residents may find themselves looking to dispose of broken string lights, worn-out extension cords, used holiday light nets, or leftover wrapping materials.
International Sharps Injury Prevention Awareness Month
December is recognized as International Sharps Injury Prevention Awareness Month, an opportunity to educate communities about the safe handling and disposal of needles and other sharps. Improper disposal poses serious hazards to public health workers, custodial staff, sanitation teams, and community members.
Don’t be a pain in the drain!
The Town of Reading is urging residents to think twice before flushing wipes, even those marketed as “flushable,” as part of an ongoing effort to protect the community’s wastewater infrastructure.
National Impaired Driving Awareness Month
December marks National Impaired Driving Awareness Month, a time when communities across the country come together to raise awareness about the deadly consequences of driving under the influence. As holiday gatherings and year-end celebrations fill our calendars, it becomes more important to plan and make safe decisions.
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month: understanding screening guidelines
Each November, communities across the country observe Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of early detection, treatment options, and ongoing research.
Public health alert: recall of ByHeart Infant Formula due to national botulism outbreak
The Reading Public Health Department is alerting residents that the FDA and CDC are investigating a national outbreak of infant botulism linked to ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a national observance dedicated to increasing awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting individuals and families impacted by breast cancer. Each year, communities, healthcare professionals, and advocacy organizations work to educate the public and encourage regular screenings, an essential step in saving lives.
October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month
Each October, communities around the world come together to honor Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month - a time to remember the lives lost too soon and support families who have experienced the heartbreak of miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant death.