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A resource fair, free meal and family theater is how Emmaus plans to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday.
The group, which operates the city’s homeless shelters, is having its fourth annual event from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 26 White St. The free event is open to families with children.
“Emmaus is proud to continue its tradition of hosting Haverhill’s annual MLK Day of Service,” said Emmaus Director of Philanthropy Gretchen Arntz. “For the past three decades, it has been our mission to improve the lives of families struggling with homelessness, poverty and food insecurity. In fact, the original Emmaus House, located at 105 Winter Street, first opened its doors on Jan. 16, 1987, exactly 30 years prior to this year’s MLK Day. It will truly be a day of celebration for the 100 volunteers and community members who will gather in memory of Dr. King.”
Local health and service groups will be on-hand to meet with attendees, including Family and Community Connections, Haverhill Police Department, Greater Lawrence Family Health Center, Head Start, Lions Club, Ruth’s House, Tobacco Free Community Partnership, VNA Care Network, WIC, YouForward, Haverhill YWCA and YMCA of the North Shore. There will also be a hot lunch, children’s play and an interactive historical presentation by Haverhill High School students.
The event is supported by Massachusetts Service Alliance, AmeriCorps, and the Corporation for National and Community Service.
The first 130 families to register receive a “Healthy Living” backpack with first-aid kits, hand sanitizers and other items to promote healthy living this winter.
Those interested in attending may register by calling 978-241-3438 or visiting Tinyurl.com/participantMLK. Families may register on the day of the event as long as space is still available.