Next neighborhood cleanup set for May 2
By Gazette Staff

Boston City Councilor Henry Santana hit the streets with his team of volunteers last weekend for the first round of Love Your Block cleanups in the neighborhood.
Mayor Michelle Wu and the Office of Civic Organizing invite residents to join a second round of the annual Love Your Block cleanup on Saturday, May 2. While the official city calendar originally slated the Mission Hill neighborhood cleanup for late April, local organizers have confirmed that a “Round 2” event is scheduled to ensure the community is fully prepared for the spring season. This citywide beautification initiative, formerly known as “Boston Shines,” empowers neighbors to take collective care of their streets, parks, and open spaces.
Participants will gather to clear trash, remove litter from sidewalks, and assist with flower plantings to prepare the neighborhood for the spring season. Cleanup tools, including trash bags, gloves, brooms, and rakes, will be available for pickup at the centralized neighborhood hub from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on the morning of the event. All tools must be returned to the same location between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.
This year’s cleanup is particularly significant as part of the Boston 250 celebration, honoring the city’s long history of community-led service. Residents can sign up to host a specific site or join as individual volunteers by visiting the city’s Love Your Block webpage.