Northampton to celebrate Good Neighbor Day for 2nd year

NORTHAMPTON — National Good Neighbor Day will be celebrated in Hampshire County for the second year, with a lawn party at Forbes Library on Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m.

The Trauma-Informed Hampshire County network is collaborating again with Forbes Library on the family friendly event, the groups said in a statement. People are encouraged to bring a neighbor, their families and friends, or to come alone to make new friends and acquaintances.

"Loneliness has increased tremendously since the pandemic; the best antidote to loneliness and trauma is social connection," said Ruth Ever, program director for countywide group. "It's important to remember all the ways we support each other. (The network) decided to participate in this national and statewide observance, because we believe our lives are richer and better because of connections with neighbors."

Everyone is invited to bring a picnic to the library's front lawn, where there will be games such as corn hole, giant Jenga, and art projects, along with snacks, a popcorn machine and international folk dancing that's easy to do.

There will be free book giveaways, a spinning board with prizes and the creation of a wall board to celebrate the kindness of neighbors.

At 2 p.m., Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra will read a city proclamation celebrating Good Neighbor Day.

Good Neighbor Day was created in the early 1970s. In 1978, President Jimmy Carter issued a proclamation, saying: "Understanding, love and respect build cohesive families and communities. The same bonds cement our nation and the nations of the world."

In Massachusetts, Good Neighbor Day is being spearheaded by the Coalition to End Loneliness and Build Community, of which the Hampshire County network is a participating member.

Gov. Maura Healey this month issued a proclamation identifying Sept. 28 as Good Neighbor Day of Action.

"The last few years have shown us the value of connection, kindness and community. We are proud to recognize Good Neighbor Day of Action and encourage people across the state to use the day as an opportunity to take a minute to do an act of kindness," Healey said in the statement.

Trauma-Informed Hampshire County network is a countywide group committed to creating a kinder, more trauma-responsive community through training, education, advocacy and policy change. The Saturday event is supported by the Western Massachusetts Training Consortium, Greenfield/Northampton Cooperative Bank, Northampton Neighbors, and the Cutchins Programs for Children and Families.

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