The Town of Northborough is in the early stages of creating a collaborative health and wellness initiative to help the community recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Be Well Northborough is focused on addressing the reengagement of the community to promote health and wellness.
The program was discussed during the Board of Selectmen meeting of February 14 by Library Director Jennifer Bruneau and Health Agent Kristin Black.
Town Administrator John Coderre said that the hard-core needs have been met over the pandemic, but people within the community are feeling isolated and the sense of community and connection has been diminished for two years.
People are feeling burnout, stress, anxiety and depression.
A task force created by members of town departments has been made including representatives from the Recreation Department, Library, Health Department, Police, schools, and Family Youth Services.
Although in its conceptual stages, Be Well Northborough is looking for feedback.
Ideas for programs, requests for partnerships, or suggestions can be submitted online.
The goal of the group is to foster connections for residents of all ages. One way to do this will be to create a community calendar for residents to find a central listing of events, opportunities, places to volunteer, services and activities.
“You want to make sure you always have resources for people in crisis and need,” said Coderre. “The sense of belonging and sense of community is really what people are absolutely desperate for.”
A summer kick-off event to be held outside and to include something for all ages will launch the campaign.
Coderre said there is a budget placeholder of $100,000 with the intent of these funds to be used for programming purposes.