Town Matters is a monthly guide to local opportunities, programs and community needs throughout the region, from school and recreation sign-ups to volunteer roles, workshops, applications, services, and ways to get involved.
Community Action
Election workers needed. The Mercer County Board of Elections is accepting applications from residents throughout Mercer County interested in serving as board workers during the Tuesday, Nov. 3, general election.
Board workers help open and close polling places, check in voters, operate election equipment and carry out other duties at assigned polling locations throughout Mercer County. Training is provided, and full-day and half-day assignments may be available. Applicants generally must be registered Mercer County voters, although a separate program is available for eligible students.
The location and schedule of required training and each applicant’s Election Day assignment will be provided by the Board of Elections. For application requirements, compensation, training information and assignment details, go to mercercounty.org.
Help clean the Delaware River. Volunteers can register during August for the annual Delaware River Cleanup, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 19, at participating sites that may include Ewing, Trenton and Hamilton Township, along with locations in Hunterdon and Sussex counties.
Possible Mercer County-area locations include Scudder Falls in Ewing, the Trenton Battle Monument area and Duck Island in the Abbott Marshlands. Volunteers will receive supplies such as gloves, trash pickers and collection bags. Individuals, families, school groups and civic organizations can take part.
The starting time had not been posted when this section was prepared. Participants should check the official registration page for confirmed cleanup sites, starting times, parking instructions, age requirements and weather information before selecting a location. For more information go to ewingnj.org.
Food pantry visits Lawrence. Arm In Arm’s mobile food pantry will distribute groceries and personal-care products Mondays, Aug. 3, 10, 17 and 24, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System, 2751 Brunswick Pike in Lawrence Township.
No advance registration is required. Arm In Arm staff will register participants when they arrive. Available items may include fresh produce, eggs, milk, frozen proteins, baked goods, canned and boxed food, shampoo, soap and diapers.
Other agencies are expected to provide information during several distributions. The Aug. 3 participants are scheduled to include a SNAP navigator, the Mercer County Board of Social Services and Lawrence Township Health Department. The New Jersey Hospital Association, Presbyterian Church Voting and township Health Department are scheduled to attend Aug. 10. The Aug. 17 distribution is expected to include the Mercer County Board of Social Services, WorkWell Partnership and Mercer County Nutrition Program. WorkWell Partnership is scheduled to return Aug. 24.
Participating agencies are subject to change. Arm In Arm also needs volunteers to stock and distribute food, make deliveries, help with administrative work and assist with seasonal projects. The organization accepts food, personal-care products and financial contributions. For current distribution information, volunteer shifts, age requirements and requested donation items, go to arminarm.org.
Hamilton pantry offers groceries. Arm In Arm plans to bring its mobile food pantry to the Hamilton Township Public Library Thursday, Aug. 6, from 2 to 4 p.m. at 1 Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. Way in Hamilton.
The distribution is intended for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. No advance registration is expected to be required, and Arm In Arm and library staff will register participants when they arrive.
Readers should confirm the date, hours, parking information and any schedule changes through the library before visiting. For more information go to hamiltonnjpl.org.
Volunteer with HomeFront. HomeFront, headquartered at 1880 Princeton Ave. in Lawrence Township, invites individuals, families, schools, businesses, congregations and civic groups to support families experiencing homelessness, poverty and housing instability.
Volunteer opportunities may include helping at donation centers, preparing supplies, supporting children’s activities, organizing collection drives and assisting with special projects. Available assignments, age requirements and schedules change throughout the year.
HomeFront is headquartered at 1880 Princeton Ave. in Lawrence Township. Volunteers should check the organization’s website for current openings, orientation requirements, donation needs and the location of each assignment. For more information go to homefrontnj.org.
Help the Bordentown Library. The Bordentown Library Association is seeking residents interested in supporting programs and services at the Bordentown Library, 18 E. Union St. in Bordentown City.
The volunteer board raises money through grants and contributions to support children’s, teen and adult programming. Residents can submit an interest form to join the association or ask about helping with fundraising and library activities.
Meeting dates, volunteer duties and application information are available from the association. For more information go to bcls.lib.nj.us.
Garden for a cause. D&R Greenway Land Trust offers gardening, food education and hunger-relief volunteer activities at Point Breeze, 101 Park St. in Bordentown City.
Volunteers may help tend an heirloom garden, harvest produce and prepare food for people in need. The program may appeal to residents interested in gardening, cooking, food access or community service.
Volunteer dates, starting times, age requirements and registration procedures vary. Participants should check the organization’s website for the current schedule and instructions before visiting Point Breeze. For more information go to drgreenway.org.
Join Art All Day. Artworks Trenton has opened artist registration and sponsorship opportunities for its annual Art All Day program in Trenton.
The event invites artists to open their studios, exhibit their work or otherwise take part in a citywide celebration of Trenton’s arts community. Businesses, organizations and individuals also can participate as sponsors or support the event through donations.
Artworks is at 19 Everett Alley at Stockton Street in Trenton. Artists and sponsors should confirm the event date, application deadline, participation requirements and locations through the organization before applying. For more information go to artworkstrenton.org.
Schools & Families
Fall sports deadline is Aug. 7. Stone Bridge Middle School students in Allentown interested in fall athletics must register through the Genesis Parent Portal by Friday, Aug. 7.
Fall programs include boys and girls soccer, field hockey and boys and girls cross-country. Soccer and field hockey tryouts are scheduled for Sept. 14 through 17, while cross-country begins Sept. 14 without tryouts.
Families should contact the appropriate coach through the district website for the tryout time and location, physical-examination requirements and eligibility information. For more information go to ufrsd.net.
Register for Upper Freehold schools. Families in Allentown and Upper Freehold who are new to the Upper Freehold Regional School District can complete student registration for the 2026-27 school year.
The district serves Allentown and Upper Freehold students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Allentown High School also serves Millstone Township students. Families must complete online registration and provide residency, health and enrollment documents before meeting with the district registrar.
School assignments, registration appointments and document-submission instructions depend on the student’s grade and home address. Families should use the district website for the registrar’s location, appointment times and required forms. For more information go to ufrsd.net.
Finish Lawrence school registration. Families enrolling new students in Lawrence Township Public Schools should complete the district’s online registration and submit required residency, health and enrollment records before the school year begins.
Late registrations can complicate transportation arrangements and building assignments. Children entering kindergarten must meet the district’s age requirement, and families should allow time for submitted documents to be reviewed.
Registration begins online. The district will provide the appropriate school assignment, appointment location and any in-person requirements after reviewing the application. For more information go to ltps.org.
Fourth-graders get a Jump Start. Lawrence Intermediate School will offer its Jump Start program for rising fourth-grade students Monday, Aug. 10, through Thursday, Aug. 13, at 66 Eggerts Crossing Road in Lawrence Township.
The program begins at 8:30 a.m. Aug. 10 and is designed to help students become comfortable with the school, its routines and the transition to fourth grade before classes begin.
Families should consult the registration materials for the complete daily schedule, eligibility, transportation information and any remaining availability. For more information go to ltps.org.
Freshman orientation is Aug. 25. Lawrence High School will welcome members of the incoming freshman class for orientation Tuesday, Aug. 25, from 9 a.m. to noon at 2525 Princeton Pike in Lawrence Township.
Students will have an opportunity to become familiar with the high school before the new academic year. Advance registration is required.
Families should consult the school’s orientation letter for the check-in location, transportation information and any materials students should bring. For more information go to ltps.org.
Meet the Lawrence district. Lawrence Township Public Schools will hold a Welcome to the Neighborhood family event Tuesday, Sept. 8, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Lawrence High School cafeteria, 2525 Princeton Pike in Lawrence Township.
Families can meet district administrators, Board of Education members and representatives of community organizations while learning about school communications, calendars, family resources and Title I programs. Children can participate in free karate or art activities while adults visit information tables.
Registration is open during August. Families should confirm availability and registration instructions through the district website. For more information go to ltps.org.
Explore Rider University. Rider University will hold an open house Wednesday, Aug. 26, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its Lawrenceville campus, 2083 Lawrenceville Road in Lawrence Township.
The program is intended for prospective freshmen and transfer students considering enrollment in fall 2027 or later. Students and their families or supporters can tour academic buildings and residence halls, meet faculty members and current students and learn about admissions, financial aid and campus life.
Check-in begins at 9:30 a.m., and advance registration is required. Visitors should consult Rider’s website for the check-in location, parking instructions and final schedule. For more information go to rider.edu.
Plan the college application process. The Mercer County Library System plans to offer the virtual program “The Junior and Senior Year Roadmap: A Timeline for Stress-Free College Applications” online for families throughout Mercer County Monday, Aug. 17, at 7 p.m.
The session is designed for high school juniors, seniors and their families. Topics are expected to include course planning, standardized testing, college lists, application essays, financial aid, deadlines and comparing admissions offers.
The program will be held online rather than at a library branch. Families should confirm the date and registration status through the library calendar. Advance registration is required to receive the access link and any program materials. For more information go to mcl.org.
Kids & Recreation
Flag football deadline is Aug. 2. The Allentown-Millstone coed flag football program, with games at Millstone Park in Millstone Township, is expected to accept registrations through Sunday, Aug. 2, although a late fee may apply.
The recreational league is open to children in kindergarten through eighth grade. Games are scheduled for Friday evenings from Sept. 11 through Oct. 30 at the Millstone Park fields, 4 Red Valley Road in Millstone Township. Teams generally practice once each week.
Volunteer coaches and other helpers may be needed. Paid opportunities also may be available for referees and junior board members. Families should confirm that registration remains open and review division times, practice locations, fees, uniform information and equipment requirements before enrolling. For more information go to millstonerec.org.
Redbirds registration runs through Aug. 15. The Allentown-Millstone Redbirds American Youth Football program, serving players in the Allentown and Millstone Township area, plans to accept registrations through Saturday, Aug. 15.
The program includes flag football for children ages 4 to 6 and tackle football for players ages 7 to 14. Practices and home games are held at fields in the Allentown-Millstone area. The exact practice site, schedule and home-field assignment depend on the player’s division.
Registration and booster fees may apply, along with equipment and volunteer-work requirements. Families should confirm the deadline and review the full fee schedule, field locations, practice times and equipment rules before enrolling. For more information go to millstonerec.org.
Princeton offers three sports camps. Princeton Recreation is registering children ages 5 to 12 for weeklong morning sports programs at Community Park South, 380 Witherspoon St. in Princeton.
Flag football camp will run Aug. 10 through 14, soccer camp will follow Aug. 17 through 21, and a multisport camp is planned for Aug. 24 through 28. Each program runs from 9 a.m. to noon.
The fee is $217 for Princeton residents and $247 for nonresidents. Space is limited, and financial-aid information is available through the Recreation Department. Families should consult the website for current availability, equipment requirements, check-in instructions and weather policies. For more information go to princetonnj.gov.
Ewing camp continues through Aug. 21. Ewing Township’s Summer Day Camp at the Ewing Senior and Community Center, 999 Lower Ferry Road in Ewing, continues through Friday, Aug. 21, for children entering first through sixth grades.
The program runs weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is based at the Ewing Senior and Community Center, 999 Lower Ferry Road in Ewing. Indoor activities may be moved to Fisher Middle School, 1325 Lower Ferry Road, during inclement weather. The community center campus includes a pool, playground, athletic fields, tennis courts and activity spaces.
Families should check the township registration system for remaining availability, fees, extended-care options and registration requirements. For more information go to ewingnj.org.
Arts & Creativity
Artists face August deadlines. The Arts Council of Princeton is accepting applications during August for several fall and holiday markets in downtown Princeton.
Artists working in ceramics, textiles, jewelry, printmaking, drawing, painting, apparel and home décor can apply for the Sauce for the Goose Outdoor Art Market by Thursday, Aug. 13. The market will be held Saturday, Nov. 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. along Paul Robeson Place.
Food and beverage businesses also can apply by Aug. 13 for the new Harvest Fare section of the market. Eligible products include prepared foods, baked goods, olive oils, vinegars, preserves, hot sauces, spices, granola and honey.
Vintage dealers selling clothing, jewelry, furniture, homeware and accessories can apply by Thursday, Aug. 20, for a Pop-up Vintage Market scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Artists interested in operating a chalet or weekend booth at Princeton’s Winter Village must apply by Thursday, Aug. 27. The chalets will operate Thursdays through Sundays from Nov. 12 through Dec. 20, while outdoor artist booths will be available Saturdays and Sundays from Nov. 14 through Dec. 20.
The Arts Council of Princeton is at 102 Witherspoon St. Applicants should consult the organization’s website for fees, selection criteria, setup requirements and exact market locations. For more information go to artscouncilofprinceton.org.
Enter Princeton’s chili cook-off. The Arts Council of Princeton and Historical Society of Princeton are accepting participants for the Princeton Community Chili Cook-Off in Princeton, scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 11, from noon to 3 p.m.
Home cooks and professional chefs can register to prepare chili and compete for the approval of visitors. Registration is being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, making August a good time for interested cooks to reserve a place.
Participants should consult the Arts Council website for the final event location, entry requirements and preparation rules. For more information go to artscouncilofprinceton.org.
Enter the county photo contest. The Mercer County Library System plans to accept entries at participating branches throughout Mercer County for its 2026 Amateur Photo Contest, “A Moment in Our Story,” from Monday, Aug. 10, through Monday, Sept. 14.
The contest asks photographers to capture a family tradition, community celebration, personal milestone or meaningful everyday experience in a single image. It is open to amateur photographers of all ages who live, work or attend school in Mercer County.
Entries are expected to be submitted to the participant’s local Mercer County Library System branch. Judges at each branch will select photographs for consideration by a final panel, with prizes planned for first, second and third place.
Photographers should confirm the submission dates and consult the complete rules for image requirements, submission procedures and participating branches. For more information go to mcl.org.
Register for fall art classes. The AOY Art Center, 949 Mirror Lake Road in Lower Makefield, Pennsylvania, is accepting registrations for its first fall session, scheduled to begin Tuesday, Sept. 8, and continue through Saturday, Oct. 17.
Classes are held at the AOY Art Center, 949 Mirror Lake Road in Lower Makefield, Pennsylvania, just across the Delaware River from Mercer County. Offerings are designed for artists who want to begin a new medium, return to a former creative practice or strengthen existing skills.
Courses may include drawing, painting and other studio disciplines for adults and younger artists. Students should review the schedule for individual class dates, times, instructors, supply requirements and fees. For more information go to aoyarts.org.
Westminster programs move to Rider. Rider University’s Westminster Conservatory of Music is moving several community programs to Rider’s Lawrenceville campus, 2083 Lawrenceville Road, beginning in August.
Programs relocating to Lawrenceville include selected private instruction in piano, recorder and voice, the Honors Music Program, Westminster Community Orchestra and Opera Outings. The offerings serve children, teens and adults with different levels of musical experience.
Classrooms, rehearsal locations, lesson times and registration procedures vary by program. Families and adult musicians should consult the Conservatory website for age requirements, auditions, placement procedures, tuition and the specific campus building where each activity will be held. For more information go to rider.edu.
Learning & Lifestyle
Register for Mercer classes. Mercer County Community College is registering students for fall credit courses in West Windsor, Trenton and online, most of which begin Monday, Aug. 31.
Classes are available at the West Windsor campus, 1200 Old Trenton Road, the James Kerney campus, 102 N. Broad St. in Trenton, and online. The college offers associate-degree programs, individual courses, professional certificates, workforce training and personal-enrichment classes.
Prospective students should allow time to complete admissions, placement, financial-aid and advising requirements. Students should consult the college website for individual course times, classroom locations and registration deadlines. For more information go to mccc.edu.
Create a caregiver plan. The Mercer County Library System plans to present the virtual program “Care Planning Essentials: Preparing for Care at Home and Beyond” online for residents throughout Mercer County Tuesday, Aug. 4, at 6 p.m.
The program is intended for people caring for an aging parent, a child with disabilities, a spouse or another loved one. Topics are expected to include organizing medical and emergency information, managing medications, coordinating responsibilities among relatives and providers and preparing for a transition from home care to residential care.
The program will be held online. Participants should confirm the event through the library calendar. Advance registration is required to receive the access link and any materials. For more information go to mcl.org.
Explore local history resources. The Hickory Corner Branch of the Mercer County Library System plans to present “Historic Local Resources” Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 7 to 8 p.m. at 138 Hickory Corner Road in East Windsor.
Participants will learn to use library resources for genealogy and local-history research, including Ancestry, Fold3, HeritageQuest, HeritageHub, the Hightstown Digital Newspaper Archive and archives of The Trenton Times and The Trentonian.
Attendees should confirm the program through the library calendar and check whether they should bring a tablet or laptop and a valid library card. Registration is required. For more information go to mcl.org.
Practice conversational English. The Hickory Corner Branch plans to offer ESL Conversation sessions Mondays, Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at 138 Hickory Corner Road in East Windsor.
The informal sessions are intended for intermediate-level English speakers who are comfortable speaking in most situations but want additional practice and confidence. Librarian Mary Astarita is scheduled to lead the conversations.
Participants should confirm the dates and register through the library calendar. For more information go to mcl.org.
Join a caregiver support group. The Hickory Corner Branch plans to hold a bilingual Caregiver Support Group Tuesday, Aug. 11, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at 138 Hickory Corner Road in East Windsor.
The group provides a safe space for caregivers to share experiences and learn ways to manage stress and other concerns. Kat Verdi is scheduled to facilitate the session and provide information in English and Spanish about available resources.
Snacks are expected to be served. Participants should confirm the program and register through the library calendar. For more information go to mcl.org.
Brush up on cursive. The Hickory Corner Branch plans to offer Learning Cursive workshops Wednesdays, Aug. 12, 19 and 26, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at 138 Hickory Corner Road in East Windsor.
Participants will use worksheets to practice cursive handwriting. The program comes as New Jersey prepares to require cursive instruction for students in third through fifth grades beginning in September.
Participants should confirm the dates and register through the library calendar. For more information go to mcl.org.
Swap a jigsaw puzzle. The Hickory Corner Branch plans to hold a Jigsaw Puzzle Swap Monday, Aug. 3, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 138 Hickory Corner Road in East Windsor.
Visitors can leave a completed puzzle and select another one, although donating a puzzle is not expected to be required to take one.
Readers should confirm the program through the library calendar. For more information go to mcl.org.
Use AI in a job search. Princeton Public Library plans to offer the virtual program “Harnessing AI for Smarter Job Searches” online from Princeton Monday, Aug. 3, at 6 p.m.
The online session will introduce ways job seekers can use artificial-intelligence tools during employment searches.
Readers should confirm the program and consult the library listing for the presenter, topics, technology requirements and registration instructions. Advance registration is required to receive the Zoom link. For more information go to princetonlibrary.org.
Improve your resume. Princeton Public Library plans to offer “Resume Writing and Job Search” Friday, Aug. 7, at 10 a.m. in the Technology Center at the Sands Library Building, 65 Witherspoon St. in Princeton.
The class will help participants identify their strengths and improve their resumes. It also is expected to address interviews, recommendations, social media, professional networking and other parts of the employment process.
Participants should confirm the class through the library calendar and determine whether registration is required and whether they should bring a current resume or laptop. For more information go to princetonlibrary.org.
Get personal technology help. Volunteers from Bloomberg plan to offer individualized technology assistance Thursday, Aug. 6, at 3 p.m. at Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon St. in Princeton.
Participants can seek help with computers, phones, tablets and other technology questions.
Visitors should confirm the program and room through the library calendar or information desk. For more information go to princetonlibrary.org.
Get help with Apple devices. Members of the Princeton Macintosh Users Group plan to offer drop-in assistance Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon St. in Princeton.
Participants can seek help resolving questions involving Apple computers, phones, tablets and related software.
Visitors should confirm the program and meeting room through the library calendar before attending. For more information go to princetonlibrary.org.
Explore alternatives to cable. Princeton Public Library plans to offer “Beyond Cable” Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 1 p.m. in the Technology Center at the Sands Library Building, 65 Witherspoon St. in Princeton.
The class is intended for residents interested in streaming services and alternatives to traditional cable television.
Participants should confirm the class and check the program listing for registration, equipment requirements and details about the services that will be discussed. For more information go to princetonlibrary.org.
Research your home’s history. The Trenton Free Public Library plans to present “Explore Your Home’s Story” Thursday, Aug. 6, from 3 to 4 p.m. in the Trentoniana Local History Room at 120 Academy St. in Trenton.
Participants will learn about records and other resources that can be used to investigate the history of a house or property.
Readers should confirm the program through the library calendar and determine whether they should bring an address, documents or a computer. For more information go to tfplibrary.org.
Find grant-planning resources. The Mercer County Division of Culture and Heritage in Trenton maintains a free online resource center for nonprofit groups, schools, libraries, local governments, artists and residents throughout Mercer County developing arts, history or cultural programs.
Recorded workshops and materials address grant writing, budgeting, accessibility, diversity, marketing and program development. The collection can help small organizations prepare stronger applications or improve projects even when no live workshop is scheduled.
The resources are available online at any time. Live workshop dates, times or locations will be posted separately on the county website. For more information go to mercercounty.org.
Take an adult education class. Princeton Adult School offers continuing-education classes in Princeton and online for residents throughout the region, with fall registration generally opening before the new session begins.
Programs commonly include languages, arts, technology, history, literature, finance, health and practical skills. Some classes are held in person at locations in Princeton, while others are offered online.
Because the time and location vary by course, students should consult the fall catalog for the instructor, meeting dates, classroom address, fee and registration deadline. Residents interested in teaching also can review the procedures for proposing a course. For more information go to princetonadultschool.org.
Senior Corner
College tuition waived for seniors. Mercer County residents age 65 and older may enroll in Mercer County Community College credit courses in West Windsor, Trenton or online with tuition waived on a space-available basis after tuition-paying students have registered.
Credit courses are offered at the West Windsor campus, 1200 Old Trenton Road, the James Kerney campus, 102 N. Broad St. in Trenton, and online. Students remain responsible for college fees, textbooks and required materials.
Eligible residents must register in person and provide proof of age and Mercer County residency. A 20% discount also is available for many noncredit courses, although exclusions include some culinary, floral-design, swimming and online programs. Applicants should consult the college website for registration-office hours, eligible courses and required documents. For more information go to mccc.edu.
Get help with Medicare. Mercer County residents with Medicare questions can schedule an appointment with a State Health Insurance Assistance Program counselor at Mercer County Connection, 957 Route 33 in the Hamilton Square Shopping Center in Hamilton Township.
Volunteer counselors provide free, impartial help with Medicare coverage, supplemental insurance, prescription plans and related concerns. Appointments are offered on selected Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Registration is required. Residents should consult the county website for available appointment dates, times, required documents and contact information. For more information go to mercercounty.org.
Join Lawrence senior programs. The Lawrence Township Senior Center offers exercise, arts, dance, writing, language, games and social programs for township residents age 60 and older.
Activities are held at the Senior Center, 30 Darrah Lane East in Lawrence Township. Regular programs may include chair yoga, line dancing, painting, watercolor, memoir writing, bridge, mah-jongg, sewing, Spanish, T’ai Chi and walking.
Separate registration or fees may apply to some classes. Residents also can volunteer through service projects such as Busy Bees and Create to Donate. Participants should consult the monthly calendar for dates, times and room locations. For more information go to lawrencetwp.com.
Get property-tax application help. The Lawrence Township Senior Center plans to provide assistance with New Jersey property-tax relief applications Monday, Aug. 24, at 30 Darrah Lane East in Lawrence Township.
The program is intended for Lawrence residents age 60 and older who need help understanding or completing applicable state forms.
Participants should confirm the program through the township website and determine the starting time, whether an appointment is required and which identification, income or property documents they should bring. For more information go to lawrencetwp.com.
Join Ewing senior activities. Ewing Township offers senior swim, water aerobics, fitness, art, cards, dance and social activities through its senior and recreation programs.
Pool activities are offered through the Ewing Community Pool System, while many indoor programs are held at the Hollowbrook Community Center, 320 Hollowbrook Drive in Ewing. Some programs also may be held at the Ewing Senior and Community Center, 999 Lower Ferry Road.
Registration may be required through the Senior Office. Residents should consult the current August schedule for the date, starting time and location of each class because instructors and rooms may change. For more information go to ewingnj.org.
Health & Wellness
Take a mindful summer break. The Hickory Corner Branch plans to present “A Mindful Summer Escape” Saturday, Aug. 8, from 10 to 11 a.m. at 138 Hickory Corner Road in East Windsor.
The restorative program will use mindful breathing, gentle body awareness, intention setting, guided visualization and quiet reflection to help participants slow down and reconnect.
The Friends of the Hickory Corner Library sponsors the program. Participants should confirm the event and register through the library calendar. For more information go to mcl.org.
Meet with a library social worker. Residents can schedule an appointment with a Mercer County Library System social worker at participating branches throughout Mercer County, including the Lawrence Headquarters Branch in Lawrence Township, for help identifying public benefits, housing resources, food assistance or other services.
Appointments are offered at participating library branches, including the Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike in Lawrence Township. Sessions help residents understand available resources and application procedures but are not a replacement for medical or mental-health treatment.
Dates and times vary by branch, and registration is required. Residents should consult the library calendar for the nearest participating location and available appointment periods. For more information go to mcl.org.
Apply for energy assistance. Mercer County residents can apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program by appointment at Mercer County Connection, 957 Route 33 in the Hamilton Square Shopping Center in Hamilton Township.
The program helps eligible households with heating and energy expenses. Applicants should determine in advance which income, residency and utility documents they must bring.
Appointments are generally offered during limited weekday hours. Residents should consult the county website for current appointment times, income limits and document requirements. For more information go to mercercounty.org.
Celebrate multicultural mental health. NAMI New Jersey plans to hold its fourth annual Multicultural Summer Celebration Sunday, Aug. 30, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Thompson Park in Monroe Township.
The event brings together NAMI’s multicultural programs, community partners and families for mental-health information, activities and opportunities to connect. The location is outside the primary coverage area but is close to East Windsor and may be useful to Mercer and western Monmouth residents seeking culturally responsive mental-health resources.
Participants should confirm the program and check the organization’s website for the exact park area, street entrance, parking instructions, rain plans and whether advance registration is requested. For more information go to naminj.org.
Civic & Local Life
Join an East Windsor board. East Windsor Township accepts volunteer applications from residents interested in appointment to municipal boards and committees.
Positions may involve planning, recreation, environmental issues, senior services and other areas of local government. Meetings are generally held at the East Windsor Township Municipal Building, 16 Lanning Blvd., although the location and schedule vary by board.
Vacancies change during the year, and submitting an application does not guarantee an immediate appointment. Residents should use the township website for the application, current vacancies, meeting dates and any board-specific eligibility requirements. For more information go to east-windsor.nj.us.
Recreation Commission meets Aug. 24. The Allentown Recreation Commission is scheduled to meet Monday, Aug. 24, at 7 p.m. at Allentown Borough Hall, 8 N. Main St.
The commission discusses parks, playgrounds, recreational facilities and community programs. Residents can attend to learn about current projects, offer public comment and follow plans for local events and recreational improvements.
Residents should confirm the meeting date, time, location and agenda through the borough website before attending. For more information go to allentownnj.gov.
Follow Mercer County government. Mercer County residents can follow county government through public meetings scheduled during August in Trenton, at other county facilities and online.
The county calendar includes meetings of bodies such as the Agricultural Development Board, Open Space Preservation Board and Human Services Advisory Council. Meetings may address farmland preservation, parkland, homelessness, outreach and other regional concerns.
The date, time, location and format vary by board. Some meetings are held at the Mercer County Administration Building, 640 S. Broad St. in Trenton, while others use county offices or virtual platforms. Residents should check the posted agenda before attending. For more information go to mercercounty.org.
Ongoing Access
Get a county library card. Residents of East Windsor, Ewing, Hightstown, Hopewell Township, Lawrence, Robbinsville and West Windsor are eligible for free Mercer County Library System cards with identification and proof of residency.
Cards provide access to branch collections, digital books and media, research databases, technology resources and programs. Applications can be completed through participating branches, including locations in Lawrence, Ewing, Hickory Corner, Hightstown, Hopewell Township, Robbinsville, Twin Rivers and West Windsor.
Residents should consult the library website for branch addresses, operating hours and documentation requirements before applying. For more information go to mcl.org.
Check local recreation programs. Municipal recreation departments in Mercer County, Allentown, Upper Freehold, Millstone Township, Bordentown City and Bordentown Township offer sports, fitness, camps, nature programs and seasonal activities.
Programs are held at municipal parks, schools, community centers, pools and other local facilities. Because registration periods, dates, starting times and space availability change frequently, families should check their town’s online catalog throughout August rather than waiting for a printed seasonal guide.
Volunteer coaches, instructors and event helpers also are often needed. For the current schedule, registration rules and exact program location, go to the appropriate municipal website.
Watch for municipal vacancies. Municipalities throughout Mercer County, along with Allentown, Upper Freehold, Millstone Township, Bordentown City and Bordentown Township, periodically seek residents for planning, recreation, environmental, historic, library, senior and other advisory bodies.
Meetings generally are held at the municipality’s town hall, municipal building or another public facility, although some boards may meet virtually. Interested residents can review meeting schedules, attend public sessions and submit volunteer applications before a vacancy is announced.
For the name of the board, meeting date, time, location and application procedure, go to the municipality’s official website.
Volunteer with local schools. School districts in Mercer County, Allentown, Upper Freehold, Millstone Township and the Bordentown area depend on parent organizations, education foundations, booster clubs and advisory groups to support students and school programs.
Opportunities may include volunteering at school events, helping with fundraisers, supporting arts and athletics, serving on committees and participating in special-education or family-engagement groups. Activities may be held at individual schools, district offices or community locations.
Families should consult their district and school websites for the sponsoring organization, meeting date, starting time, location and volunteer requirements.
Use Lawrence library resources. The Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System offers recurring activities for children, teens, adults, job seekers, caregivers and older residents.
In addition to book groups, technology assistance and educational programs, the branch periodically hosts social-service providers, health organizations, food-distribution programs and individual appointments with a library social worker.
The branch is at 2751 Brunswick Pike. Residents should consult the online calendar because dates, registration requirements and space availability change throughout the month. For more information go to mcl.org.
Pick produce and flowers. Terhune Orchards offers pick-your-own flowers, apples and seasonal vegetables during August at 330 Cold Soil Road in Lawrence Township.
The flower garden generally includes zinnias, sunflowers and other seasonal varieties. Weekend picking may include Gingergold apples, tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, basil and other produce when crops are ready.
Hours and crop availability depend on weather and growing conditions, and some offerings may end when supplies run out. Visitors should check the farm’s daily picking update, hours and payment policies before traveling. For more information go to terhuneorchards.com.
Submit a Town Matters item. Libraries, schools, nonprofit organizations, senior groups, arts organizations and civic associations in Mercer County, Allentown, Upper Freehold, Millstone Township and the Bordentown area can submit actionable local programs for consideration in future issues.
Useful submissions include registration deadlines, volunteer needs, donation drives, auditions, applications, workshops, classes and participatory programs. Each submission should identify who is sponsoring the program, what residents can do, when it will occur and where it will be held.
Submissions also should include eligibility information, registration instructions, a contact person and a base website address.
