USPS Reminds Customers to Keep Paths Cleared for Carrier and Public Safety
The Postal Service is reaching out to communities throughout the region to raise public awareness of the importance of keeping walkways, sidewalks, and approaches to mailboxes clear from snow and ice so letter carriers can provide safe and timely mail delivery.
Mounds of snow and patches of ice in front of mailboxes create havoc for carriers trying to safely deliver the mail. Postal officials emphasize that residents maintaining a clear path to the mailbox — including steps, porches, walkways and street approach — will help postal carriers provide timely delivery service. Customers receiving curbside delivery should also ensure clear access to their mailboxes for letter carriers from the street.
Postal employees make every reasonable effort to deliver the mail in many difficult weather conditions. At the same time, we must insure the safety of our carriers along their routes. Carriers are not allowed to attempt door delivery when there is a heavy buildup of snow and ice on sidewalks, steps or porches. They are not allowed to dismount for curbside boxes blocked by snow and ice buildup.
If mailboxes are blocked off and conditions are difficult, letter carriers must always consider safety and accessibility first. Letter carriers are instructed to not deliver to mailboxes and locations which are too hazardous or unsafe to access.
The U.S. Postal Service and postal letter carriers greatly appreciate your support.
The Postal Service received no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.
Wu Announces Youth Job Applications Open for 2025-2026 School Year
Mayor Michelle Wu and the Office of Youth Employment and Opportunity (YEO) have announced that youth job applications are now open for the 2025-2026 School Year.
The program currently has over 2,000 employment opportunities available for Boston youth and young adults ages 14-24.
Program Highlights
Application: Youth can apply online at futureBOS, the centralized hub for all City employment opportunities, including the flagship SuccessLink program.
Funding: The City provided $23.3 million in its FY26 budget for youth jobs, leveraging an additional $10.5 million in external funds.
Career Pathways: The program connects youth to employment in high-demand industries, including the new Boston Climate Youth Corps, which hired over 200 youth last summer for jobs focused on climate resilience and sustainability.
Partnerships: YEO partners with over 300 entities, including City agencies, non-profits, and educational institutions, and continues to collaborate with Boston Public Schools (BPS) to fulfill the Youth Jobs Guarantee.
Financial Education: YEO partners with Bank On Boston and the Center for Working Families to provide financial education, workshops, and access to safe, no-fee bank accounts.
How to Apply
Job applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and youth are strongly encouraged to apply early by December 15, 2025.
Online Guide: A step-by-step application guide is available online at https://www.boston.gov/departments/youth-
employment-and-opportunity/landing-summer-job-or-internship.
In-Person Help: Youth can visit the YEO office in person at 1483 Tremont Street in Roxbury, Monday – Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., or call 617-635-4202 for assistance.
ABCD Annual Toy Drive SupportS LOCAL Families
Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) has launched its annual Toy Drive, urging the community to help bring joy to neighbors in need as the winter season approaches.
For thousands of families, juggling the costs of heat, rent, and groceries during the winter makes providing “a little holiday cheer” difficult. Every year, the ABCD Toy Drive distributes upwards of 6,000 toys to more than 720 families with the support of generous donors.
How to become a donor
Individuals, families, social or faith groups, businesses, or benevolent societies are invited to step up and join the effort.
To become a Toy Drive Donor:
Complete the online form at bostonabcd.org/service/toy-drive/. An ABCD staff member will then contact you to schedule the donation drop-off and other logistics.
For questions or more information, contact ABCD at 617-348-6767 or [email protected].
How families can register for toys
Families in need of toys this holiday season must register by calling one of the participating ABCD locations.
Registration is required, and all eligible households must have an updated and complete client file that includes:
• proof of income.
• proof of address.
• photo ID.
• proof of family size (birth certificate of children).
Once the completed application is received, ABCD will contact the family with details on when the toys will be ready for pick-up.
Please call the East Boston Area Planning Action Council office at 617-567-8857 to sign up to receive or donate a toy this holiday season.
The East Boston APAC is located at 21 Meridian Street, in Eastie.
Boston Parks Department Brings Forever Young Program Indoors for Winter
The Boston Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF), is excited to announce the return of the Forever Young Program for older adults.
To keep seniors active, social, and warm all season, the free program is moving indoors to the Carter Playground Bubble.
Program Details
What: The program provides a welcoming indoor space for fun and fitness, featuring activities such as bocce, cornhole, walking, and weekly special events.
When: Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m..
Duration: Starting January 7th and running weekly until March 2, 2026.
Where: Carter Playground Bubble, 709 Columbus Ave, Boston, MA 02118.
Attendance: Sessions are drop-in, and pre-registration is not required.
The program aims to encourage physical activity, mental well-being, and community engagement for older adults throughout the winter.