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Welcome to the March newsletter from State Representative Tara Hong's office! We're thrilled to share some exciting updates and plans for the coming months. |
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As March comes to an end, I want to take a moment to share a message with you.
Every day, we are all feeling the impact of what is happening at the federal level, along with the ongoing challenges right here in our own community. These issues are real, and they affect our daily lives—from affordability, to access, to basic needs. But even in difficult times, we cannot give up or walk away. Instead, we must stay committed to finding better solutions together.
Our democracy and our community are strongest when everyone participates.
As your State Representative for the 18th Middlesex District, my work each day is guided by one simple principle: to keep showing up and working toward real solutions that serve the best interests of our community. I am here to support all of my constituents—no matter who you are, where you come from, or your political beliefs. Public service should always be about people, not personal gain.
Now in my second year in office, I continue to see the challenges that matter most to all of us—especially affordability. Like many of you, I understand how difficult it can be to pay bills, afford groceries, or simply find time and resources to enjoy life with loved ones. These are real struggles, and they deserve real attention.
That is why I believe so strongly in the responsibility we have, as elected leaders, to work hard and deliver meaningful change. In my first term, we have taken action on key issues, supporting affordable housing, improving communication and access to constituent services, and advocating for stronger investments in our schools and students.
There will always be challenges, and not everyone will have good intentions. But I truly believe that when we come together—with a shared purpose and a willingness to support one another—we can build a stronger, more connected community.
I encourage you, your friends, and your family to continue speaking up, staying engaged, and advocating for what matters most. Your voice is powerful.
As your State Representative, I will continue to stand with you, work for you, and represent your voice at the State House. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office with your concerns, ideas, or questions. Together, we can get the job done!
Tara Hong
State Representative
18th Middlesex District
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I was proud to work alongside State Representative Rodney Elliott to get this amendment focused on protecting our ratepayers included in Bill H.5151, An Act relative to energy affordability, clean power and economic competitiveness. As data centers grow in Massachusetts, we must make sure families and small businesses are not left footing the bill.
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March 3 - At the State House artists, musicians, culture bearers, and creatives from across the Commonwealth gathered for Creative Sector Day 2026.
Thank you to Mass Creative and Mass Cultural Council for putting the event together to showcase the thriving creative sector in Massachusetts.I had the honor to introduce Lowell’s Saexia and Jasper Crystal Wizard, who provided an amazing musical performance. |
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This legislation is about ensuring that Massachusetts remains a place where immigrant families feel safe, respected, and protected under the law.The PROTECT Act strengthens due process protections, ensures transparency, and helps prevent local resources from being used to undermine the rights of our immigrant neighbors.
The Bill reinforces that in Massachusetts, we value fairness, dignity, and equal protection for all. In communities like Lowell and across the Commonwealth, immigrants are our small business owners, students, workers, and neighbors. They are part of the fabric of who we are.I will always stand up to protect our immigrant communities and make sure Massachusetts remains a welcoming and just state for everyone. |
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Thank you to the LRTA team for your ongoing commitment to making our city’s buses accessible and reliable, and for continuously seeking innovative ways to improve transportation for everyone living and working in the Greater Lowell area.I look forward to continuing our efforts to make our buses free for everyone, because accessible public transportation is vital to our city’s growth. |
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It was great to join Ms. Cote and Mrs. Kim to read A Dozen Delicious Donuts: A Sweet Cambodian-American Story by local author Chanda Ouk Wolf. The book is a beautiful story that celebrates Cambodian culture, community, and family.
Thank you to LCCPS for bringing our community together and creating opportunities for students to learn, connect, and be inspired. |
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I’m especially grateful to Lowell Alliance, the Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence, and all the advocates who stopped by my office. Your voices and stories are powerful, and your support for policies like the Protect Act matters deeply.We will continue fighting to ensure all immigrants are treated with dignity and respect, have access to due process, and are protected under the law—because everyone deserves to be seen and treated as human. |
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March 25 - Thank you to our friends from Lowell High School, Lowell MA / Middlesex Community College for stopping by today to advocate for the Early College program. Early College is one of the best opportunities we can provide to our high school students, allowing them to earn college credits while still in school. I am a proud and strong supporter of this program and will continue to fight to keep it well-funded and expanding for our students, to ensure the success of our students in Lowell and across the Commonwealth. |
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Check Out my Videos Updated from the State House! |
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It was a true honor to stand on the House floor on March 25th and deliver my inaugural speech in support of the PROTECT Act—standing up for our immigrant communities and strengthening protections for everyone. |
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Fiscal Year 2026 Supplemental budget summary in detail
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PROTECT Act bill summary in detail
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March 31 - Congratulations to Vinfen on the opening of the Restoration Center of Greater Lowell!
This center represents a major step forward for Greater Lowell and Middlesex County. Designed as an alternative to emergency departments and the criminal justice system, it offers a low-barrier, trauma-informed space where individuals can receive immediate support, stabilization, and connection to ongoing care.
With 24/7 access for walk-ins, as well as drop-offs from police and first responders, this program ensures people can get help when and where they need it most.Operated by Vinfen in partnership with Spectrum Health Systems, the Restoration Center strengthens our region’s behavioral health system and provides compassionate pathways to recovery and stability.
I am proud to celebrate the opening of this important community resource with all the great and committed leaders who make this happen.
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Rourke Bridge Replacement
Project: Construction Update!
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Things to Know, Things to Do |
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Help LPS to better serve you! Please take a few minutes to fill out the LPS Family Survey. The results assist us in providing better communication and engagement opportunities to our most important partners - YOU - the families and caregivers of our students. The survey is available in several languages:
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Mark your calendars! Jam Fest is returning to Taffeta Music Hall on Thursday April 16 at 6 pm. This is a chance to see 12 amazing bands from 6 LPS schools rock out in a real club! Admission is FREE.
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Click Here to learn more about the free medical clinic hosted by Love All Serve All (LASA) on Saturday, April 11th from 8:30 am - 2:30 pm located at 40 Old Ferry Road, Lowell, MA 01854.
The clinic is no cost, and no insurance is required.
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Weekly Yard Waste Collection Is Back!
The weekly yard waste collection has returned. The frequency schedule will run as follows:
Weekly Pickup until May 22
June 1 - October 2 (Bi-Weekly Pickup)
October 5 - December 18 (Weekly Pickup)
Click Here to learn more about hard waste collection on the City's Facebook page. |
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Upcoming Municipal Budget Listening Sessions
Join upcoming public listening sessions to learn about the City's key budget areas and to share your feedback.
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HEAP funding is officially here to help families stay warm this winter.
Need heating system repairs or a replacement? HEAP also supports HEARTWAP, which provides free repair or replacement for qualifying households.
Apply online: toapply.org/MassHEAP
Learn more about HEARTWAP: mass.gov/HEARTWAP
Scan the QR code in the graphic to get started. Please share so neighbors who need support can apply! If you have any other questions, reach out anytime! |
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The Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) provides free, 24/7, no insurance required, confidential support by call, text, or chat in 200+ languages for residents experiencing mental health or substance use concerns. BHHL provides warm hand-offs and follow-ups, identifying appropriate services to address a wide range of needs from crisis intervention to routine mental health support. The BHHL is staffed by trained mental health professionals with 24/7 clinical supervision. The BHHL connects patients to CBHCs, BHUCs, and other local providers, to reduce ED visits connecting people to specialized support faster.
How can Massachusetts residents’ access BHHL’s resources?
•Call or text 833-773-2445 (BHHL)
•Start a chat at masshelpline.com/chat
•Access online: masshelpline.com |
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DCR is looking for lifeguards for this summer!
Earn good money and work outside at a pool or waterfront all across the state!
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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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