WestMass ElderCarein now AccessCare Partners

HOLYOKE — After five decades of service to older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers across western Massachusetts, WestMass ElderCare has a new name — Access Care Partners. The rebrand marks a significant milestone in the organization’s history, emphasizing its commitment to providing inclusive, person-centered care and support.

The organization’s new website, accesscarepartners.org, is now live, offering enhanced accessibility, resources, and information about available programs and services.

For 50 years, WestMass ElderCare has been a resource in the community, delivering home care services, meals, care management, and other essential programs that empower individuals to maintain dignity and independence in their home and community.

With this rebrand, Access Care Partners reaffirms its mission to break down barriers to care and foster partnerships that promote healthy, fulfilling lives.

For more information about Access Care Partners and its programs, visit its website or contact Lynn Wolf at lwolf@accesscarepartners.org or at 413-538-9020, ext. 329.

Northampton Girls Youth Lacrosseprogram this spring

NORTHAMPTON — The Northampton Parks & Recreation Department is again offering Girls Youth Lacrosse this spring. The program is open to youth in grades 5-8, offering teams in both the Juniors (fifth and sixth grades) and Seniors (seventh and eighth grades) divisions.

The program is held April-mid-June and is for both new and experienced players. The deadline to register is Thursday, Feb. 20, or when a division is full. Information and online registration are available at northamptonma.gov/recreation.

For further information, contact the Parks & Recreation Department at 413-587-1040 or stop by the office at 100A Bridge Road, Florence.

Fire & Ice Festival,luminaria coming up

AMHERST — The Amherst Business Improvement District (BID) in collaboration with Amherst Recreation will hold the fifth annual Fire & Ice Festival + Luminaria on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 3 to 6 p.m. on the Amherst Common. This event marks the culmination of Amherst’s weeklong WinterFest and has become a highlight of the winter season, attracting over 2,000 attendees each year.

The event will feature a variety of activities, including:

■Hot Cocoa, S’mores, & Fire Pits.

■Ice Sculptures displayed throughout the Amherst Common, by Joe Almeida

■Winter Tie-Dye Crafting with Amherst Recreation.

■Fire Arts Performance featuring a fire juggling performance by Matica Arts.

■Metal Sculptures Demonstration: Witness live metal sculpting by local artist and Hampshire College alum Kamil Peters.

■Wood Carving Demonstration: Observe Amherst resident Cody Stosz of Kodiak Carving showcase his wood carving skills.

Additionally, the Amherst Fire Department will be present with their fire truck, offering fire safety information and an opportunity to meet Sparky the Fire Pup.

For more information and updates, visit amherstdowntown.com and on social media @amherstdowntown.