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Welcome to the November newsletter from State Representative Tara Hong's office! We're thrilled to share some exciting updates from November and plans for the coming months. |
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Hello Everyone,
As we move out of the month of November into December, the holiday season is quickly approaching. This is a time for reflection, gratitude, and coming together as a community. It is also a reminder that while many celebrate, there are neighbors among us who may be struggling, and now more than ever, we must continue working together for the betterment of our community.
The holidays should be a time of hope, not hardship. Yet many families in our district are facing rising costs for food, housing, and energy, making it difficult to meet basic needs. No one should have to choose between heating their home and feeding their family. That is why I continue to advocate at the State House for expanded resources and meaningful supports for working families, seniors, and our most vulnerable neighbors.
I am calling on all of us to stand together during this season — to check in on one another, support local community organizations, volunteer when possible, and extend kindness wherever we can. It is in unity that we find strength, and it is through collective action that we create meaningful change.
As your State Representative, I remain committed to listening, to showing up, and to fighting for the dignity, safety, and opportunity that everyone in our community deserves.
Wishing you and your families a safe, peaceful, and meaningful holiday season.
With appreciation,
Tara T. Hong
State Representative
18th Middlesex District
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There’s been a lot of uncertainty this month, especially around the government shutdown and SNAP benefits. But one thing is clear: the Lowell community has come together to support one another.
My team and I showed up to support Merrimack Valley Food Bank's emergency food drive, Nibbāna Cafe’s community pantry, and Coalition for a Better Acre’s annual spice drive, hosted by Representative Vanna Howard.
If you or someone you know is facing food insecurity, please check out Merrimack Valley Food Bank's resource page: https://mvfb.org/resources/
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Congratulations to the City of Lowell on the completion of this great new project! The newly renovated Durkin Park is officially open this month, and it’s exciting to see the first of many upcoming park improvements across our city.
With an accessible playground, new games court, hillside slide and climbing area, community garden path, and a welcoming entry plaza, this renovation is a big step forward in creating safe, inclusive spaces for all Lowell families.
I am excited for the Lincoln Elementary School to have this new playground!
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Thank you to the Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce for putting together an incredible Coffee Hour with Lowell’s legislators last week, and to everyone who joined us for a morning of connection and conversation. It was a great opportunity to share some of the work we are doing at the State House and in the community.
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On Nov. 13, at the State House, I joined the Joint Committee on Election Laws for a hearing on Ranked Choice Voting, local petitions, and late-file bills. I also stood with community members to testify in support of a resolution I co-filed with Rep. Vanna Howard (H.3851) condemning political oppression and supporting free and fair elections in Cambodia.
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👉 Check out all the videos from this month’s Formal Session update!
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Congratulations to Project Kompass on the grand opening and ribbon cutting of their beautiful new community center at 193 Appleton Street in Lowell.
Project Kompass continues to show what true community leadership looks like. Their mission—to provide transitional housing, parenting support, and essential life-skill programs—creates a safe and empowering environment for young women ages 18–24.
For many, Project Kompass is a lifeline, helping them move from housing instability and hardship toward stability, confidence, and independence.This new community center is more than just a building. It represents hope, opportunity, and a renewed commitment to supporting young women who deserve every chance to thrive.
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It was an honor to join advocates from across the Commonwealth to testify before the Joint Committees on Public Safety & Homeland Security and the Judiciary in support of immigrant communities.
I spoke in strong support of:
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H.2580 – Protecting the civil rights and safety of all Massachusetts residents
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H.1954 – Ensuring access to equitable legal representation
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H.4684 – Strengthening public trust through law enforcement identification
As an immigrant and a State Representative, I know the fear many families are facing, and I remain committed to fighting for dignity, safety, and justice for all — no matter where they were born.
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Community Forum to Support Our Immigrant Families
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On Monday, December 1st my office, in partnership with Lowell Alliance, the Massachusetts Office for Refugees and Immigrants (ORI), and Representatives Vanna Howard and Rodney Elliott will be hosting a Community Forum with information, resources and supports for immigrant families, friends and neighbors. Please join us at Stoklosa Middle School from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm.
There will be live interpretation at the in-person event in Spanish, Portuguese, Khmer and Haitian Creole.
Click Here to sign up for 1 on 1 legal consultation.
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$75k in Local Earmarks Filed by Rep. Hong Released
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I am thrilled to announce that $75,000 in local earmarks from the FY26 Budget have been released. Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, Coalition for a Better Acre, and Latinx Community Center for Empowerment will each receive $25,000. Check out the full press release on Inside Lowell. |
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Rep. Hong's Pet Food Drive
Benefitting the Lowell Humane Society! |
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Since its founding in 1873, Lowell Humane Society has been one of the most important pillars in our community. That’s why our team decided to come together and organize a pet food drive in support of this incredible organization.
Our goal was to lend a helping hand so they can continue caring for and feeding pets in need throughout our community. As part of their important work helping pets, Lowell Humane Society also operates a pet food shelter to help support those facing financial hardship--because every pet deserves a full bowl. I want to again say thank you to everyone who showed up, not just from Lowell, but from our neighboring cities and towns, to support this pet food drive. Your generosity makes a real difference.
As always, you can continue to help and support the Lowell Humane Society by visiting their website (www.lowellhumanesociety.org) to volunteer your time, donate supplies, or funds. Your support helps keep their work going and ensures our four-legged friends get the care they deserve. Thank you! |
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Local Business Recognition |
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Congratulations to Cole Hair & Company on opening your new local hair salon in our great city of Lowell, right here in the 18th Middlesex District! The space at 225 Stedman St, Unit 36, Lowell, MA looks amazing, and it’s inspiring to see your passion and dedication to the community. Let’s all go check them out, show some love, and support this new local business! |
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On November 13, my staff and I stopped by to support one of our great local businesses today, Streat Station x Kvenience , located at 301 Westford St, Lowell, MA 01851! They’ve been serving our community for six months now, offering so many delicious food and drink options. I encourage everyone to stop by, show your support, and try their amazing menu! |
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Congratulations to Peter Nhim and Broadway Super Laundromat on 19 years of serving the Lowell community. It was my honor to stop by and present a citation in recognition of their success and continued dedication to our city. |
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It was an honor to stop by Barbara Rodriguez’s new studio this month to offer my congratulatory citation and celebrate the opening of her beautiful new location in Downtown Lowell.
I encourage everyone to stop by and check it out! Barbara offers makeup classes, skincare products, eyebrow services, and so much more to help you look and feel amazing.
262 Merrimack St, Lowell, MA 01852
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My staff and I stopped by Olympos Bakery to congratulate them on their 110th year in business! The bakery opened in Lowell in 1915, and has been kept in the family for four generations. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty sandwiches, savory soups, or sweet treats, Olympos has something for you.
Olympos Bakery 216 Broadway st, Lowell, MA 01854 |
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Things to Know, Things to Do |
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The Hive Public Market had its official ribbon cutting on Wednesday, November 26th! This holiday season, there are many opportunities to shop small and shop local right here in the City of Lowell. Please check out Hive Market's amazing offerings by visiting them at 101 Paige Street in downtown Lowell.
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Tis the season! Join us for Lowell’s City of Lights — Saturday, November 29I’ll be there!
Every year is such a great moment to walk around, shop, and support our local businesses. Come out to celebrate and have some fun together!
What’s happening:
• Parade at 4:30 PM — floats, marching bands, and community groups filling downtown with holiday spirit
• Lighting ceremony at 5:15 PM — watch City Hall and the Wannalancit Smokestack light up the night
More fun all day:
• Photos with Santa (1:00 – 3:00 PM)
• Hot chocolate tasting by local businesses
• Holiday treat decorating • Marshmallow roasting
• Holiday movies, craft markets, and more
There’s truly something for all of us! Let’s light up Lowell together! See everyone tomorrow! |
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Support Local This Holiday Season!
Come check out Lala Books Holiday Pop-Up Shops! Find unique gifts, support small businesses, and enjoy the holiday spirit.
📅 Every Saturday through 12/21
🕐 1–5 PM
📍 189 Market St
Stop by, shop local, and celebrate the season with us!
https://lalabookstore.com/
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Lowell Public School is hosting a community event for African and Haitian families at LPS Central Office - 155 Merrimack St. (5th floor) on Thursday December 11 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Learn how to use Clever and other school apps, receive important school-related information, ask any questions you may have.
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Lowell Youth Basketball’s registration (kids ages 5-17) is now open for the winter season! To register visit www.lowellhoops.com |
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Help shape the future of the Merrimack River! The Alliance of Climate and Environmental Stewards wants your input on the 2025 River User Survey. Whether you work, play, or relax by the river, your observations can make a difference. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MRUS2025
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As we gear up to celebrate the City of Lowell’s Bicentennial in 2026, we’re inviting you to share your memories with us! Whether it’s a family story, a moment from growing up in the city, your time working or serving in the community, or any Lowell connection that’s meaningful to you—we want to hear it!Select stories will be featured on the new Lowell Bicentennial website as part of this once-in-a-lifetime celebration.
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The School Bus Lookup Tool is now updated and live. (Note: charter and private school students are not included in the bus lookup tool). Student bus passes will be mailed out.
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Great news for Lowell and our region!
The Fare Free Transit Pilot Program has been extended through June 30, 2026 on the Lowell Regional Transit Authority (LRTA)! This means more accessibility, more savings, and more opportunities for our community to get where they need to go.Public transportation should be affordable and accessible for everyone—and this program is a big step forward.
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As always, we love to hear from you! Please reach out any time.
Email: tara.hong@mahouse.gov
Phone: 617-722-2080
Cell: 978-421-5079
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