Getting help doesn't have to start with a trip to the police station.

North Andover residents can meet one-on-one with a social services professional during a free, confidential drop-in session at Stevens Memorial Library on Wednesday, July 22, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. No appointment is required.

Hosted by the town's Community Support Services Department, the program gives residents a chance to talk through challenges in a familiar, low-pressure setting. Staff can provide support, connect people with local resources, offer crisis assistance, and help with concerns ranging from mental health and substance use to family issues, school-related behavioral challenges, and major life transitions.

The department, based at the North Andover Police Department, launched the library sessions to make its services more accessible to people who may be uncomfortable seeking help at a police station.

Community Support Coordinator Crystal Clunie and Case Manager Francia Tejeda lead the drop-in hours. Residents who can't attend can contact Clunie at 978-794-2032, Tejeda at 978-794-1703, or email [email protected].

No registration is needed. Stevens Memorial Library is located at 345 Main St. The library plans to continue offering the drop-in sessions throughout the summer.

While you're at the library, families can also stop by the Pretend Play Farm program for children ages 2 to 7 from 2 to 4 p.m. the same day. Elsewhere in town, the North Andover Farmers Market continues every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. behind Town Hall, featuring more than 30 vendors.