Page 6 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, July 3, 2020 NAACP Mystic Valley Area Branch Launches Housing Assistance Program M EDFORD - The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) – Mystic Valley Area Branch of the NAACP has established the Mystic Valley Area Branch of the NAACP Housing Assistance Program to improve housing opportunities for low to moderate income families. The Mystic Valley Area Branch of the NAACP Housing Assistance Program, with a generous matching donation from our partners at Century Bank, will grant funds to first-time home buyers towards their down payment or closing costs. Emergency rent assistance is also available. Through this partnership, funding will also be considered for limited home maintenance needs such as HVAC repair, wheelchair ramp installation, and other unexpected expenses needed to maintain a livable and accessible home. Low to moderate income families in our local communities are eligible (check application for additional details). Elderly residents, with no income restrictions, within the same geographic areas may also qualify. “The high cost of housing in the Mystic Valley area has made it difficult for many families to purchase a home. Owning a home can help families build wealth and achieve financial stability. We are excited to be able to help create more equity and access,” said Zane Crute, President of the Mystic Valley Area Branch of the NAACP. “This partnership will help families obtain affordable and sustainable homeownership. I’m thrilled to be able to provide additional guidance and expertise to families as they navigate the road to homeownership,” said Cornelius Prioleau, Economic Development & Housing Chair of the Mystic Valley Area Branch of the NAACP, as well as Vice President at Century Bank. “Century Bank has always valued our relationship with the NAACP and our community. Buying a home is one of the best investments a family can make. We are proud to offer support to help families purchase and remain in homes,” said Barry R. Sloane, Chairman, President and CEO at Century Bank. For information on how to contribute to the program or become a member of the NAACP, please visit: https://www.mvanaacp.org/ Fire Chief Bill Sullivan’s statement on illegal fireworks “A s the Chief of the Malden Fire Department, and a Malden resident, I certainly share the concerns of all Malden’s residents, with respect to the use of illegal fireworks in our City. Many surrounding communities, as well as cities and towns across the nation, are reporting a significant increase in the use of illegal fireworks over these past few weeks as compared to this same time period just a year ago. “In Massachusetts, where the possession and use of fireworks by private citizens is illegal, their use keeps both local fire and police departments very busy. Each year the injury risks, and fire hazards, associated with the use of illegal fireworks are disseminated by local fire and police departments to the public. This year is no different. According to the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office, last summer there were many fires, amputations and burn injuries from illegal fireworks in Massachusetts. In the past decade (2010-2019), there have been 858 major fires and explosions involving illegal fireworks in Massachusetts. These incidents resulted in 12 civilian injuries, 40 fire service injuries and an estimated dollar loss of $2.9 million. “Additional data collected by the Massachusetts State Fire Marshall indicates that in the past decade (2010-2019), 37 people have been treated at Massachusetts emergency rooms for severe burn injuries from fireworks – burns covering 5% of more of the body. Thirty-three percent were children age 14 or younger. An additional 22% were youth aged 15-24. The youngest victim was a seven-month old boy. These victims are scarred for life. “People must understand and acknowledge that fireworks displays, common around the July 4th Holiday, must be left to the professionals. This past winter was an extremely mild one with minimal snowfall and these last few weeks have been very dry as well with little rain. The area being as dry as it is obviously increases the risk of fires that can spread quickly. “The Malden Fire Department urges residents of, and visitors to, Malden to stay safe this 4th of July and throughout the year. Please do not use, and for the safety of your families stay clear of, illegal fireworks. In addition we ask you that report incidents of illegal fireworks use to the Malden Police and Fire Departments via the 911 system. For more information please visit the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services Website at - https://www.mass. gov/service-details/leave-fireworks-to-the-professionals” J& • Reliable Mowing Service • Spring & Fall Cleanups • Mulch & Edging • Sod or Seed Lawns • Shrub Planting & Trimming • Water & Sewer Repairs Joe Pierotti, Jr. S LANDSCAPE & MASONRY CO. Masonry - Asphalt • Brick or Block Steps • Brick or Block Walls • Concrete or Brick Paver Patios & Walkways • Brick Re-Pointing • Asphalt Paving www.JandSlandscape-masonry.com • Senior Discount • Free Estimates • Licensed & Insured 617-389-1490 Designing and Constructing Ideas that are “Grounds for Success” Landscaping We Now Offer For Your Eating Pleasure “UBER EATS” Convenient Delivery Service Bianchi’s Pizza and Renzo’s Full Menu To Go Open for Takeout for Bianchi’s Pizza and Renzo’s Food 381 Revere Beach Blvd., Revere 781-284-5600
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