Hello Human Rights Committee – these are the policies that reflect the agency’s Human Rights approach. They will be reviewed at our next meeting on 6/5/24. Thank you for taking the time to review these policies! Please reach out to Kathy at if you have any questions.
2024 Local Farmers Market list
Shopping at your local farmers market offers an unparalleled experience of flavor and freshness straight from the farm to your table. Unlike produce found in supermarkets, which is often picked prematurely, fruits and vegetables at farmers markets are allowed to ripen fully on the vine, ensuring peak taste and nutrition. Check out this list of 2024 local farmers markets below and embark on a journey of culinary discovery.
Eat fresh and delicious!
At a farmers market, you’re not just buying produce; you’re investing in quality and taste. Delight in fruits and vegetables that have been nurtured to perfection, bursting with flavor and vitality. Experience the joy of biting into a ripe tomato or savoring the sweetness of freshly picked strawberries. With each purchase, you support local farmers who take pride in delivering the freshest offerings straight from their fields to your basket.
Try something new!
Farmers markets are not just places to shop; they’re hubs of culinary creativity and community engagement. Strike up a conversation with local farmers eager to share their knowledge and passion for fresh, seasonal ingredients. Discover new recipes and cooking techniques that elevate the humblest of vegetables into gourmet delights. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, the farmers market is your playground for culinary experimentation and exploration.
Strengthening community!
Beyond the delicious produce and culinary delights, farmers markets play a vital role in fostering community connections. By supporting local farmers and businesses, you become a catalyst for economic growth and sustainability in your community. Forge meaningful relationships with growers and artisans who are dedicated to preserving the traditions of small-scale agriculture. Join in the vibrant tapestry of community life as you mingle with neighbors, sample local fare, and celebrate the abundance of the harvest season.
| Market Name (with links!) | Street | City | Day & time | 2024 Season |
| Andover Farmers Market | 41 Central Street-South Church | Andover | Sat: 9:00 AM-1:00 PM | June 15 – Oct 12 |
| Beverly Farmers Market | Rantoul Street and Railroad Ave. | Beverly | Mon: 3:00 PM-7:00 PM | Jun 10-Oct 2 |
| Copley Sq. Farmers Market | 139 St James Ave. | Boston | Tue & Fri, 11 AM – 6 PM | May 17 – Nov 21 |
| Central Sq. Farmers Market | 76 Bishop Allen Dr, | Cambridge | Mon: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM | May 20 – Nov 20 |
| Everett Farmers Market | 538 Broadway | Everett | Wed: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Jun – Oct |
| Lexington Farmers Market | Worthen Road Practice Field | Lexington | Tue: 2:00 PM – 6:30 PM | May 28- Oct 29 |
| Lynn Central Sq. Farmers Market | Corner of Union & Exchange St | Lynn | Thurs: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | July – Oct |
| Malden Farmers Market | 200 Pleasant Street | Malden | Tues: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | June – Sept |
| Medford Farmers Market | Condon Shell Park, Mystic Valley Parkway | Medford | Thu: 3:00 PM-7:00 PM | June 6 – Oct 17 |
| Melrose (Sally Frank’s) Farmers Market | Bowden Park, near the Cedar Park Train Station | Melrose | Thu: 1:00 PM-6:00 PM | June 6 – Oct 31 |
| Salem Farmers Market | 32 Debry Square | Salem | Thurs: 3:00 PM – 7:00 pm | Jun 13 – Oct 10 |
| Saugus/ Cliftondale | Anna Parker Playground Essex Street | Saugus | Tue: 8:00 AM-1:00 PM | June / Oct |
| Davis Square Farmers Market | Day St & Herbert St | Somerville | Wed: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM | May 22 – Nov 22 |
| Stoneham Farmers Market | Main St., Town Common | Stoneham | Thu: 2:30 PM-6:30 PM | June 6 – Sept 26 |
| Wakefield Farmers Market | Hall Park (North Ave, along Lake Quannapowitt) | Wakefield | Sat: 9:00 AM-1:00 PM | June 57 – Oct 68 |
| Wilmington Farmers Market | 140 Middlesex Avenue (Swain Green) | Wilmington | Sun: 10:00 AM-1:00 PM | June 2 – Oct 6 |
| Winchester Farmers Market | 5 Laraway Rd, Town Common | Winchester | Sat: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM | June 8 – Oct 25 |
However, if you’re looking for something in a different town, you can also use this USDA Farmers Market search tool!
Communitas is committed to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities – and their families – in the community.
Founded in 1954, Communitas has a long track record of advocating passionately while compassionately delivering services for people with disabilities that expand opportunities, empower people, support independence and enrich lives.
By eliminating barriers, expanding opportunities and supporting independence, we empower our people to lead full and meaningful lives. Whether you have a child, a transitioning adult, or older adult; we provide a safe environment with services that meet individual needs, whatever they are and however they change, while inspiring dreams.
April 8, 2024 Eclipse Guidance
As most of you already know, there will be a total solar eclipse occurring across the U.S. on April 8, 2024. In Massachusetts, there will be a partial eclipse for most areas that will be between approximately 2:00-4:30. Out of an abundance of caution, for the safety of our individuals and our drivers, we will have early dismissal at all three day program locations (Beverly, Wakefield and Woburn) at 1 p.m. on Monday 4/8/24.
Out of an abundance of caution, for the safety of our individuals and our drivers, we will have early dismissal at all three day program locations at 1 p.m. on Monday 4/8/24.
There are obviously safety considerations related to the solar eclipse. Please go to the link below to learn more about how to view the eclipse safely.
https://www.mass.gov/doc/how-to-safely-view-the-april-8-2024-total-solar-eclipse/download
Please click here for guidance on talking to folks with Developmental Disabilities about the eclipse.
Please click here for guidance on talking to younger folks about the eclipse.
While DDS cannot prevent staff and individuals capable of understanding the risks associated with viewing the eclipse from viewing the eclipse, we strongly advise that very careful consideration be given to the following concerns as you support people during the event:
1. People’s ability to comply with the “rules” about keeping approved solar glasses on throughout the entire viewing and the need to look away before removing them.
2 People in transport during the eclipse may inadvertently view it through the window. Consider transporting people home early or remaining at programs late. Traffic may be problematic too as people stop to view the eclipse. So please plan ahead. In addition, here are tips for drivers:
- Don’t wear eclipse glasses while driving.
- Watch out for distracted drivers and pedestrians during the eclipse who may be looking up and not at the road.
- Ensure vehicle headlights are on.
3. Consider where people may be working and whether it would expose them to risk during the event. Make a plan with people and employers.
4. For people who may have difficulty not looking at the sun during the eclipse, plan activities away from windows/doors as a way to redirect and support them. In fact, the best way to view it is probably on television for many people. Plan a party!
5. Don’t allow people or staff to record the event using a cell phone or camera without an approved solar filter or view it through binoculars or a telescope. Their eyes will not be protected.
6. It may get quite chilly during the event. Plan for that.
7. Animals and pets may act erratically.
8. There may be temporary power issues especially for those areas dependent on solar power.
Be safe.
Laney Bruner-Canhoto, PhD, MSW, MPH, Assistant Commissioner of Quality Management
Deborah Dreyfus, MD MSc, Medical Director