365Dad Inc.

Description: 365DAD’s mission is to connect, equip and transform men with positive parenting practices to build better families through education, support, and services.

Services: Group & meeting facilitation, Program trainings, Outing coordination, Professional development for other providers, Consultations and Service referrals.

Monday through Friday: 8:00am to 6:00pm

ABCD (Action for Boston Community Development)

Services include:

• adult education – GED preparation, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
• employment and training
• health services
• food pantries
• fuel assistance
• housing assistance
• early education and care
• youth services
• citizenship assistance
• elder services

Some ABCD neighborhood sites offer assistance with the Earned Income Tax Credit, tax preparation, and financial literacy. Call for further information about each program.

Downtown office: Monday through Friday: 9:00am to 5:00pm

Allston-Brighton Neighborhood Opportunity Center (NOC)
640 Washington Street, Suite 203
Brighton
617-903-3640

Asian American Civic Association
87 Tyler St. 5th Floor,
Chinatown, Boston
617-426-9492

Dorchester Neighborhood Service Center
110 Claybourne St.
Dorchester
617-288-2700

East Boston Area Planning Action Council (APAC)
21 Meridian St.
East Boston
617-567-8857

Roxbury/N. Dorchester NOC
565 Warren Street
Roxbury
617-442-5900

JFK Family Service Center
23A Moulton St.
Charlestown
617-241-8866

Mattapan Family Service Center
535 River St.
Mattapan
617-298-2045

Mystic Valley Opportunity Center
11 Dartmouth St
Suite  104
Malden
781-321-2501

North End/West End Neighborhood Service Center
1 Michelangelo St.
Boston
617-523-8125

Parker Hill/Fenway Neighborhood Service Center
714 Parker St.
Roxbury
617-445-6000

South Boston APAC
424 W. Broadway St.
South Boston
617-269-5160

South End Neighborhood Service Center
554 Columbus Ave. Boston
617-267-7400

All services are available to residents of Boston, Malden, Medford, and Everett. Fuel assistance, Head Start, and some workforce development/job training and senior programs are available to additional suburbs. Suburban residents from towns other than those listed above should call for eligibility.

AccessHealth MA

The Houses of Correction Program covers medication costs for HIV-positive residents in Massachusetts county jails. Enrollment occurs by submitting an application that is filled out collaboratively by jail staff and clients. Jail staff then submit the application by fax or email. When clients are released, coverage in our program may continue with a call or email.

The PrEPDAP Program covers the cost of pre-exposure mediation for Massachusetts residents at risk of HIV infection. This program can cover the costs for residents released from jail. Applications for enrollment can be found online or by phone.

Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm.

No cost to MA residents – Income must be below 500% of the Federal Poverty Line.

Adbar Get Connected!

We provide a full computer system for $50 with a lifetime warranty.

We also provide many free training opportunities to learn how to take care of computers and to learn to be in the computer or related businesses.

Zoom meetings and in person at various times. Please call 617-522-1049 for the schedule.

AdCare Treatment Centers

The AdCare mission is to improve the lives of their patients and families by providing safe, effective, recovery-based alcohol and drug treatment.

Programs:

• Inpatient
• Outpatient
• Families
• Criminal Justice Services
  • Includes Substance Abuse Treatment, Adult Education, Life-skills Programs and Vocational Readiness, Reentry Support, and many more.
  • Contact acjs@adcare.com for more information

Online Services:

• Virtual Support Meetings 
• AdCare Telehealth Services

Main phone line is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year

AdCare Hospital
107 Lincoln St.
Worcester, MA 01605

AdCare Outpatient at Quincy
1419 Hancock St. Ste. 201
Quincy, MA 02169
Phone: 617-328-0639

AdCare Outpatient at West Springfield 
117 Park Ave
West Springfield, MA 01089
Phone: 413-209-3124

AdCare Outpatient at Worcester 
95 Lincoln St.
Worcester, MA 01605
Phone: 508-453-3053

AdCare Outpatient at North Dartmouth 
88 Faunce Corner Rd
North Dartmouth, MA 02747
Phone: 508-999-1102

Age Strong Commission

Age Strong Commission aims to enhance the lives of people 55+ with meaningful programs, resources, and connections.

Services include:

• Information and Referrals 
• Transportation
• Food Resources 
• Ways to Save 
• Housing

Their services remain open and available by phone. In-person meetings are by appointment only. Please call 617-635-4366 (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.) or email agestrong@boston.gov.

Monday through Friday: 9:00am to 5:00pm

The following advocates hold office hours in the following neighborhoods:

Deolinda DaVeiga- Mattapan, North Dorchester, Roxbury, Cape Verdean Community (citywide)

Lorna Heron- Fenway/Kenmore, Hyde Park, South Boston

Connie Mohammed- Bay Village, Downtown, North End/Waterfront, West End

Meghan Bragg- Allston, Brighton

Nhung (Ivy) Pham- Chinatown, Roslindale, South Dorchester, Vietnamese Community (citywide)

Marissa Resnick- Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury

Tammy Sutton- Citywide (in-house)

Vilma Valentin- East Boston, Mission Hill, Latino Community (citywide)

Call 617-635-4366 if you’d like to meet with an advocate in your community.

Must be 55 or older.

AHOPE

AHOPE is a harm reduction and needle exchange site providing a range of service to active injection drug users, including: Integrated HIV, Hepatitis, and STI testing. Free legal, and anonymous needle exchange. Supported referrals to HIV, Hepatitis, and STI treatment. Overdose prevention education and training. Risk reduction supplies to reduce the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C infection. Risk reduction counseling, supported referrals to all modalities of substance abuse treatment. AHOPE services are available at the walk-in center at 774 Albany Street and through mobile van and outreach sites around Boston.

• Delivery Services
• Drop-in Center
• Hepatitis Testing and Education
• HIV Testing and Education
• MAT Education and Referrals
• Naloxone Distribution/Overdose Education
• Syringe Services

AIDs Action Committee

AIDS Action is New England’s largest provider of services to people living with HIV/AIDS and populations at risk of infection.

Programs

• Check-In
  • information, referrals, along with sensitive and caring ear
• Care Access & Case Management 
  • AIDS Action staff members work individually with clients to address barriers to good health, such as lack of insurance, homelessness or unstable housing, unmet mental health and substance use needs, and other personal and systemic barriers
• Community Outreach & Education
  • AIDS Action conducts outreach and education to communities and populations most affected by HIV in the metro Boston and Lynn areas. They do this through one-on-one education sessions, street outreach, and peer-based models
• Housing 
  • AAC’s Housing programs help connect people living with HIV/AIDS to a range of housing services and options, including transitional and permanent affordable housing, supportive congregate and scattered site housing, and rental and utility assistance
• Legal Services
  • The goal of the department is to advocate for the legal rights of those living with HIV/AIDS in the Boston metropolitan area and throughout Massachusetts
• Youth on Fire 
  • Youth on Fire (YOF), a program of AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts, is a drop-in center for homeless and street-involved youth, ages 14-24, located in Harvard Square, Cambridge

Cambridge
359 Green St.
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-661-3040

AIDs Action Committee: Access Program

As one of several state-sanctioned and state-funded syringe exchange programs in Massachusetts, AIDS Action’s Access: Drug User Health Program distributes and exchanges syringes to people who inject drugs (PWID). Access: Drug User Health Program is one of the state’s pilot sites for the distribution of Narcan, a nasal spray provided to IDUs and their network of supportive family and friends to reverse potentially fatal overdoses.

The program also operates a drop-in center where members can access:

• Risk reduction supplies, such as crack kits, safer injection supplies, and condoms.
• Periodic risk reduction counseling—both group and individual services.
• Information and referrals to medical, substance use, and other social service providers.

HIV/HCV/STI Testing
Offered both at the exchange and on outreach.
You can schedule a test by calling 857-313-6800 or walk in during exchange hours.

Outreach
Andrew and Alewife Stations, Egleston, Jackson, Porter and Davis Squares, and Malden. Call or text 617-470-0994 with any questions or to find out where our outreach team is today.

Medical Clinic
Come see Dr. Fleming for wound care, HIV/HCV/STI treatment, MAT services and more, or meet with our Public Health Nursing Team

• Dr. Fleming: Wednesdays and Fridays 9 am-12:00 pm
• Nursing: Every day, during our walk-in exchange hours

Behavioral Health
Come to the exchange to talk with a Behavioral Health Clinician by appointment or walk-ins. Walk-ins available Wednesdays (9am – 12pm, 1 – 4pm), Thursdays (9am – 12pm) and Fridays (9am – 12pm, 1 – 4pm).

Exchange Hours
Monday-Wednesday, Friday: 9 am-12 pm, 1 pm-4 pm
Thursday: 9 am-12 pm

Alcoholics Anonymous

Information on alcohol abuse and treatment. Meetings and hotline available.

VIRTUAL MEETINGS: Local on-line and in-person meetings listed on website. Listings of online meetings outside the area can be found at https://aa-intergroup.org/

Monday through Friday: 9:00am - 9:00pm; Weekends and holidays: 12:00pm - 9:00pm

American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts (ACLUM)

For nearly 100 years, the American Civil Liberties Union has worked every day in the courts, in the legislature, and in communities to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution, Bill Rights, and laws of the United States.

Issues:

• Criminal Law Reform
• Economic Justice
• Free Speech and Expression
• Freedom of Religion and Belief
• Government Transparency
• Immigrants’ Rights
• LGBTQ Rights
• Police Accountability
• Privacy and Surveillance
• Racial Justice
• Reproductive Freedom
• Voting Rights
• Women’s Rights

For prisoner-specific information, visit: www.aclu.org/prisoners-rights

Western Massachusetts Legal Office
39 Main Street
Northampton, MA 01060

For information, contact:
Bill Newman, Director, Western Mass. Legal Office
(413) 586-9115
info@aclum.org

Immigration Protection Project of Western Massachusetts
For information, contact:
(413) 727-8515
Learn more about the Immigrant Protection Project

American Red Cross: Boston Food Pantry

The Boston Food Pantry is operated by the American Red Cross of Massachusetts. Since 1982, they’ve been on a mission to help alleviate hunger and food insecurity among low-income communities throughout the Boston area. They provide food and nutrition resources to individuals and families at our pantry, through mobile distribution programs and a Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). Their Food Recycling program diverts food waste from landfills transporting it to local farms where recycled into compost.

Staff and volunteers provide nutrition education and help their clients apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to better enable them to purchase more food. Through their mobile distribution programs – the Boston Public Schools (BPS) Grove Hall Alliance Initiative, East Boston Neighborhood Health Center (EBNHC) and Head Start (HS) Initiatives – they provided healthy food and nutrition resources to varying food insecure populations throughout our community.

Wednesday & Saturday: 9:00am - 11:00am

Entrance door is on Proctor Street

No registration or sign-up is required; no questions are asked.

Arlington Street Church Friday Night Supper

The mission of the Friday Night Supper Program is to serve a hot nutritious meal in a safe and dignified environment every Friday to anyone who wants one.

Each guest is served a nutritious three-course meal consisting of soup, dinner, and dessert at their table by their courteous volunteer serves.

They also provide clothing, shoes, toiletries, and other essential items to their guests following meal service. Twice per month, Friday Night Supper Program provides basic essentials to its guest through a request and need-based system.

Clothing Closet

On the second and fourth Friday of the month, from 5:00pm to 6:00pm, guests can put in their request for clothing at the table near the piano. The clothing closet opens up at 6:30pm.

Resource Cards
The FNSP has a series of “People Cards” that provide information on free resources in Boston. They have one for Food and Shelter resources, Health care resources, and useful resources (employment/education services, legal assistance, etc.).

Every Friday between the hours of 5:00pm-7:00pm. Guests can begin to line up in the public alley off Arlington Street at 4:30pm

No registration or sign-up is required, no questions are asked.

Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence

ATASK is a nonprofit, community organization serving pan-Asian survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence. Their mission is to prevent domestic and intimate partner violence in Asian families and communities and to provide hope to survivors. ATASK is committed to serving survivors of domestic violence representing all ages, ability levels, education levels, race, national origin, cultures, religions, gender identities, and sexual orientations.

• 24-hour multilingual helpline: 617-338-2355
• Community-Based Services 
  • crisis intervention
  • safety planning
  • legal and immigration advocacy
  • medical and healthcare advocacy
  • housing advocacy
  • ESOL classes
  • Referrals
• Emergency shelter program 
• Legal Advocacy 
• ESOL 
• Community Engagement 

Multilingual Helpline available 24/7

ATASK advocated available Monday through Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm, if follow up is needed.

Lowell, MA

Asian-American Civic Association

The Asian American Civic Association provides limited english-speaking and economically disadvantaged people with education, occupational training, and social services enabling them to realize lasting economic self-sufficiency.

AACA provides a range of services, including English classes, social services, job training, college preparation and a post-graduate retention program.

Services

• Bayara Buddy Guards
• Employment Center 
• Youth Center 
• Immigration Services 
• Benefits Help
• Housing Counseling
• Tax Preparation 

Education

• ESOL
• Career Advancement for Professionals (CAP)
• Workplace education
• Smoking Cessation
• Child care & early education

Training

• Asian business training and mentorship program
• Banking & finance
• Building maintenance
• Alternative fuels and emissions program
• Youth enterprise program 

M - F: 9am - 5pm

Back On My Feet Boston

Members commit to running/walking with one of their six teams in the Boston area Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. After 3 mornings of participation they are able to receive team gear, including a pair of running shoes. After 30 days in the program, members with 90% attendance earn the opportunity to move into the second phase of the program called Next Steps, which provides educational support, job training programs, employment partnership referrals and housing resources. Members can earn financial assistance to remove barriers to employment and housing such as work supplies, transportation and security deposits.

All their group runs meet every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. New members and volunteers are always welcome!

– Team Hope @ 5:45 am outside of 8 Farnham Street, Boston
– Team Common Ground/Vets @ 5:45 am near the Park Street MBTA Station at Park / Tremont Streets, Boston

After 3 days of participation members are eligible to receive team gear. After 30 days participation they are able to enter the Next Steps Program to be eligible for financial aid.

All interested members and volunteers must complete paperwork prior to attending their first run.

Potential members must be clean and sober to participate. Cannot accept level 3 sex offenders.

Barbara McInnis House (BHCHP)

BHCHP provides “medical respite care”, short-term medical and recuperative services, for homeless people who are far too sick for life in shelters but not sick enough to occupy a costly acute care hospital bed.

BHCHP’s 104-bed medical respite facility is located in Jean Yawkey Place on the campus of Boston Medical Center.

For patients and providers looking for more complete information on services provided at the Barbara McInnis House, please see their FAQ sheet.

For providers looking to admit a patient, please see their admittance requirements before filling out an admission form. 

Always open

Bay Cove Human Services

Bay Cove Human Services is a private, not-for-profit corporation that provides services to individuals and families who face the challenges of developmental and intellectual disabilities, mental illness, substance use disorder, homelessness and/or aging. Call the main office number to be directed to the appropriate program.

Programs

• Substance Use Services 
• Early Intervention Services
• Healthcare Integration Services
• Housing & Homeless Services 
• Developmental Services
• Mental Health Services 

M - F: 8:30am - 6pm. There are scheduled dosing hours on weekends.

Certain programs may have restrictions. Call 617-371-3000 for more information.

Bay State Community Services

Bay State Community Services is a comprehensive social services agency that provides counseling outpatient services, day programming, recovery center (peer support), recovery coaching, and child and family home-based services. BSCS hosts the Quincy and Plymouth Family Resource Centers.

Please call main number 617-471-8400 or program(s) directly.

Quincy – A New Way Recovery Center
85 Quincy Avenue, Suite B
617-302-3287

Quincy – Family Resource Center
1120 Hancock Street
617-481-7227

Quincy – Outpatient Counseling and Recovery Support
1120 Hancock St.

Braintree – Home Based Child & Family Services
400 Washington Street
781-817-6675

Plymouth – Home Based & Child and Family Services
430-3 Court Street
Phone: 508-830-3444

Plymouth – Family Resource Center
430-3 Court Street
774-283-6531

Walpole – Turning Point Recovery Center
32 Common Street
508-668-3960

Baystate Reentry Network

The BRN programs ensure that clients can maintain their commitments within and to the legal system and navigate programs to assist their transition as they leave incarceration.

Berea Seventh Day Adventist

Church Food Pantry:
They believe that food should not be a privilege but a basic human right and no one should ever go hungry. The pantry is open on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month from 8am – 11am. However, if you have an emergency for food, please call Berea Food Pantry at 617-427-2201.

Office Hours: Monday through Friday: 9:00am to 1:00pm

Bring photo ID for food pantry, as well as bags for food.

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center’s (BIDMC) Center for Violence Prevention and Recovery (CVPR)

The CVPR works to improve the health and well-being of people impacted by multiple forms of violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, community violence, and homicide by providing trauma-informed services and programs.

Programs:

• Sexual Assault 
• Domestic Violence 
• Community Violence 

All of CVPR’s direct service programs are:

• Available to everyone of any culture, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, and religion
• Available in multiple languages through BIDMC interpreters
• Primarily offered in-person at sites in Boston, and can be accessed by telephone

Bethel Baptist Church

Worship services: Sunday at 7:30am and 11am
Sunday School & New Member’s Class: 9:30am

Additional programs, activities, groups:

• Bible study: Wednesday at 5:30pm and 6:30pm
• Prayer Service: Wednesday at 7:30pm
• Free Meal and Food Pantry: Call for days, times and eligibility requirements.

Their church door is open- Please remember to wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Monday through Friday: 8:00am-4:15pm

Black and Pink Massachusetts

Black and Pink Massachusetts provides community support, advocacy, policy work, and mutual/material aid, and reentry support for LGBTQ+ people and People Living With HIV (PLWH) in Massachusetts who are involved with the criminal legal system.

Their programs aim to support their members throughout the entire criminal legal process including arrest, prosecution, incarceration, and post-release. In order to request access to one of their programs, please fill out this Mutual Aid Request form. They review requests each Monday and someone from their team will follow up directly with you.

Programs

• Pen-Pals
  • Their pen-pal program is the heart of their work. They connect free world people to incarcerated members who are LGBTQI+ or living with HIV to create revolutionary relationships
• Bail Support
  • They post bail for LGBTQ+ and/or people living with HIV in Massachusetts. Through their partnership with The Massachusetts Bail Fund, they are able to post bail up to $2,000 per person
• Court Support
  • Their Court Support program pairs you with a volunteer if you need to attend a court, parole, or probation appointment. They offer court reminders, local transportation, a hot meal, and cigarettes
• Reentry Support
  • They offer $150 for members released within the last 30 days. This is in the form of a Visa gift card that can be used almost anywhere
• Housing Support
  • They offer up to $1,000 in housing support for our members. This is most often used to cover the first month of a sober home. They review requests on a case-by-case basis. A W9 is required for all cash payments
  • Coming soon: They are preparing to open the Alexia Norena House, a space created specifically for formerly incarcerated trans people. Once open, they will be able to host 4-5 trans individuals in a supportive and loving environment. They hope to be accepting applications in May-June
• Drop-In
  • Their weekly drop-in is a time to build community. They offer reading groups, letter writing, pen pal support, and special events. Formerly incarcerated people who identify as LGBTQI+ or living with HIV are provided a $20/hr stipend. If you would like to attend one of their weekly meetings, please email programs@BlackAndPinkMA.org for more information
  • Due to the COVID19 crisis, they are currently hosting virtual drop-in Sundays at 3 pm via zoom. E-mail them for the link.

Must be

(1) currently/formerly system-involved in Massachusetts AND

(2) Transgender OR not straight OR living with HIV

Boomerangs

New, vintage, and gently used clothing, books, housewares, electronics, and furniture are for sale.

Boomerangs is owned and operated by AIDS Action Committee of MA, Inc. and all proceeds from Boomerangs support AIDS Action’s work.

Jamaica Plain:
Monday through Friday: 10:00AM - 6:00PM
Saturday: 10:00AM - 6:00PM

Central Square:
Monday through Friday: 10:00AM – 6:00PM
Saturday: 10:00AM - 6:00PM

South End:
Tuesday through Sunday: 11:00AM - 6:00PM

Central Square:
563 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge
617-758-6128

South End:
1407 Washington St.
Boston
617-456-0996

Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC)

The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center provides free, confidential support and services to survivors of sexual violence ages 12 and up and their families and friends. They work with survivors of all genders from the immediate crisis after sexual violence to years and decades later, and their goal is to empower survivors to heal and seek justice in ways that are meaningful to them. They assist survivors as they navigate the health-care, criminal justice, social service, and school systems.

Services include the following:
*Hotline: by phone 24-7 at 800-841-8371 and webchat at barcc.org/chat
*24-7 Medical Advocacy
*Case Management (assistance with housing, health care, and more)
*Individual and Group Counseling
*Legal Advocacy, including immigration services

Services in English and Spanish, with other languages upon request.

Hotline and medical advocacy: 24-7
Office hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Family Justice Center
989 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, MA 02215

Waltham Office:
24 Crescent Street, Suite 202
Waltham, MA 02453

Anyone 12 years or older welcome.

Boston Center for Independent Living, Inc.

Assisting people with a disability to live as full a life as possible through:

• Adult skills training assistance (including areas such as employment, housing, social/recreation, education, and financial issues)
• Assisting with information and referrals (affordable and accessible housing, health insurance, CORI, civil rights for disabled persons, transportation, home modifications, equipment, and other related services)
• Peer mentoring
• Individual advocacy
• Personal Care Assistance Program (PCA) – for people with a disability who need physical care assistance and have MassHealth Standard coverage
• Youth Services Program for individuals ages 14 to 22 that includes Peer Mentoring, Skills Training, Information and Referral, and Advocacy

Monday through Friday: 8:45am to 5:00pm

1526 Dorchester Avenue
Dorchester, MA 02122

Any individual/family member who self identifies with a disability.

Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) Adult Education

Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) Adult Education programming builds invaluable skills for life and work.

They offer a flexible and supportive approach focused on their students. Programs take place at many BCYF community centers in Boston. Each year, thousands of adults take part in BCYF education programs, including:

• studying for and taking the HiSET or GED high school equivalency exams to expand career prospects
• taking English as a Second or Other Language (ESOL) classes
• taking citizenship classes to become empowered community members

English As A Second Language or Other Language
They offer English as a Second or Other Language (ESOL) classes at all levels. This includes those with little or no knowledge of English, to those able to conduct simple conversations. They make these courses available at five BCYF community centers:

• BCYF Cleveland 
• BCYF Quincy
• BCYF Jackson/Mann
• BCYF Blackstone
• BCYF Perkins

They also offer ESOL classes at English High School and the Mario Umana Middle School Academy. BCYF Jackson/Mann Community Center offers a unique family literacy program. Parents and children can take part in classes at the same time.

High School Equivalency
Get Prepared
They offer High School Equivalency (HSE) preparation classes to adult learners at all grade levels. These classes help prepare you to take the HiSET or GED high school equivalency exams. They prepare you to understand the concepts stressed in the exam and build on your knowledge. The goal is to give you the ability to earn scores that exceed passing requirements.

Online learning
Their courses are becoming more focused on online learning and testing. This will help you build the computer skills to succeed in higher education and the modern workforce. Online learning also provides flexibility for students to access a quality education from their local community center or home.

Lots of Options
They are proud that BCYF was one of the first agencies approved to offer HiSET neighborhood testing sites in the state. They administer the HiSET exam to more than 800 candidates each year. You can take the HiSET or GED exams at a number of different times and locations. They are also the only GED testing site in Boston and the only HiSET paper testing site in Boston.

BCYF Adult Education and Testing Locations

• BCYF Blackstone
• BCYF Marshall
• BCYF Curtis Hall
• BCYF Hyde Park
• BCYF Jackson/Mann
• BCYF Mattahunt (closed for renovations)
• BCYF Mildred Avenue
• BCYF Paris Street
• BCYF Perkins 
• BCYF Roslindale (closed for renovations)
• BCYF Shelburne
• BCYF Vine Street 

COVID-19 current status:

• Programs and classes: BCYF community centers began offering programs and classes for pre-registered youth the week of July 13. Learn more about summer programs.
• Meal distribution: select BCYF locations are meal pick-up sites. You can learn more and find a location online.

Central Office: Monday through Friday: 9:00am to 5:00pm. Community Center schedules vary.

Boston Community Justice Support Center (at Suffolk County Courthouse)

There are 18 CJSC across the state. Clients attend CJSC to participate in programs designed to improve their lives and avoid further criminal justice involvement. Each CJSC offers about 15 different programs, including cognitive behavioral treatment for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and to improve decision making, employment counseling, and Adult Basic Education, GED/HiSET, and post-secondary preparation.

Typically, CJSC attendance is ordered by the court pursuant to G. L. c. 211F § 3, but it can also be a condition of parole or pre-release supervision.

For people going home after being incarcerated, attending may be a choice.

Boston ElderINFO

It is the mission of Boston ElderINFO to be the resource that meets all the information needs of every Boston elder, person with a disability, and caregivers to live with dignity, safety, and independence in our communities. Information and referral programs on the following:

• Healthy aging classes
• Boston money management program
• Options counseling
• Resources for home care services

Monday through Friday: 9:00am to 5:00pm

Must be an older adult.

Boston Health Care for the Homeless; Jean Yawkey Place

BHCHP seeks to provide or assure access to the highest quality health care for all homeless men, women and children in the greater Boston area. Services are provided at medical centers, shelters, and on the street.

Patient services at Jean Yawkey Place include primary care, dental services, family services, HIV care, pharmacy, podiatry, optometry, behavioral health, transgender programming and substance abuse treatment.

Some services are provided at special times, call for more information.

Monday through Friday: 8:00am to 4:00pm
Evening clinic until 8:00pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays

Boston Health Care for the Homeless: Substance Use Disorders Services

SPOT Program

Located at our main site, 780 Albany Street. SPOT offers engagement, support, medical monitoring, and serves as an entry way to primary care and treatment on demand for 8-10 individuals at a time who are over-sedated from the use of substances and who would otherwise be outside on a street corner, alleyway, or alone in a public bathroom, at high risk of overdose. SPOT is staffed by addiction nurses, harm reduction specialists, and peers who are in recovery themselves. While the immediate goal is to reduce the harms associated with substance use in a population which lacks stable housing and supports, our ultimate goal is to help medically-complex individuals access treatment for substance use disorders, including medication-assisted therapies, counseling, or detoxification followed by inpatient or outpatient support.

Office-Based Opiate Treatment

BHCHP launched its opioid treatment program at our largest outpatient clinic located at Jean Yawkey Place in 2008. We expanded this service to our clinic at St. Francis House in 2013 and to Casa Esperanza in 2015. Specialists work with addicted patients using a combination of Suboxone treatment, counseling, and case management.

Even for those using large doses of highly addictive drugs like heroin and oxycodone, Suboxone treatment can offer rapid, pain-free withdrawal in an outpatient setting — at a cost much lower than traditional hospital inpatient programs.

ACCESS Team

The Addiction Collaborative and Expedited Support Services (ACCESS) team follows a chronic disease management approach, using BHCHP’s multidisciplinary, patient-centered model. With recovery as the ultimate goal, the team focuses on harm reduction strategies and draws on motivational approaches to promote self-driven care.

The ACCESS team serves patients who are at highest risk for overdose death— those who have had an unintentional drug overdose within the last 12 months. Services include:

• Expedited access to primary medical care
• Suboxone therapy
• Behavioral health care
• Weekly substance abuse groups

Case Management

Our intensive case management services include accompaniment, home visits, assistance with detox and transitional programs, naloxone education, harm reduction and overdose prevention counseling.

Naloxone

Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is a safe and effective prescription medication that reverses opioid overdose. BHCHP provides prescriptions for Naloxone and educates patients on how to use the medication.

Support Groups

In October 2012, BHCHP began offering addiction support groups, first at the Barbara McInnis House, our 104-bed respite program, and then at our outpatient clinic at Jean Yawkey Place. Facilitated by social workers skilled in addiction counseling, these groups are held daily and are well attended by patients in both settings.

Boston Medical Center – Office Based Addiction Treatment (OBAT)

• The BMC OBAT Program provides the following services to patients:

  • Treatment for all types of Substance Use Disorders, including opioid, alcohol, benzodiazepine, and stimulant use disorders
  • Trained addiction experts including nurses, physicians, nurse practitioners, social workers, psychiatrists, patient care coordinators, medical assistants, and recovery coaches
  • Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD): buprenorphine (Suboxone), injectable buprenorphine (Sublocade), and naltrexone (Vivitrol, Revia)
  • Same-day medication access
  • Direct telephone access to the nursing team
  • Compassionate and non-judgmental care
  • Harm reduction services and resources
  • Specialized services to justice-involved individuals, adolescents, pregnant and post-partum women, and those with brain injuries
  • Assistance accessing social supports and other benefits (e.g., food, IDs, employment, insurance)
  • Behavioral health and psychiatric services
  • Access to short- and long-term birth control
  • Screening and treatment options for HIV; Hepatitis A, B, and C; and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)
  • Overdose education and access to naloxone (Narcan)

Monday - Thursday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Boston Project Rebound Reentry Services

Programs

• BPRRS Aftercare Support Program
• Peer Navigation Program
• Senior Peer Navigator Program
• Employment Training
• Veterans Specialist 
• Recovery Coach

Website provides additional resources for people returning to their communities.

M 9am-4pm
T 9am-5pm
W 9am-12pm
Th 9am-5pm
F 9am-5pm
Sat. & Sun. CLOSED

Closed on all federal holidays

Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC)

The Boston Public Health Commission, the country’s oldest health department, is an independent public agency providing a wide range of health services and programs.

The Commission’s more than 40 programs are grouped into six bureaus: Child, Adolescent & Family Health; Community Health Initiatives; Homeless Services; Infectious Disease; Recovery Services; and Emergency Medical Services.

Programs & Services:

• Recovery Services 
  • Entre Familia 
  • Men’s Health and Recovery
  • The Mom’s Project/ Women’s Health and Recovery
  • Wyman Recovery Home 
• Children’s Health
  • Father Friendly Initiative (FFI)
  • Healthy Baby/Healthy Child (HBHC)
• Emergency Services and Preparedness
• Health Access 
• Racial Justice and Health Equity
• Healthy Eating and Active Living 
• Healthy Homes and Environment 
• Homelessness
  • Southhampton Street Shelter 
• Infectious Diseases
• Mental and Emotional Health
• New and Expecting Parents
• Outreach, Education and Training
• Physical Health
• Sexual Health 
• Teens
• Tobacco
• Violence Prevention

The Help Desk hours are from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM, Monday - Friday

Varies by Program

Boston Release Network

Dedicated to successfully reintegrating those who have committed sex offenses back into the community.

Boston Reentry Network is also a resource for information for people with sex offenses who face problems in their community primarily due to registration issues. Those concerns often include housing, employment, and compliance with statutory mandates of registration laws.

Boston Rescue Mission

Boston Rescue Mission offers a variety of programs and resources that prevent and end homelessness and support the recovery, health, faith, and independence of those who have a history of substance abuse, incarceration, and homelessness. Programs offered include:

• Preventing Homelessness 
  • Outpatient counseling center
  • Sober living and life growth shelter communities
  • Food pantry
  • Job readiness
• Paws for Serenity – Animal Assisted Therapy 
• Ending Homelessness, One Person at a Time
  • “Wet” emergency overnight shelter beds
  • “Dry” sober beds and supporting services
  • Rapid rehousing & stabilization program
  • Safe Haven veterans program 
• Veterans Programs 
• Meal Programs 
  • In house meal program
  • Saturday morning outreach

Varies by program

Boston Senior Home Care

Boston Senior Home Care (BSHC) is a private, nonprofit human services agency dedicated to ensuring that older adults and individuals with disabilities, particularly those of limited means, can remain safely in their homes with dignity and independence. Since 1974, BSHC has provided adults 60 years of age and older with affordable in-home care and community-based services. Today, BSHC also offers long-term services and supports for people with disabilities of all ages, education to help individuals maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage their chronic diseases, as well as resources and supports for caregivers.

Their mission is to empower individuals to achieve the highest level of health, wellbeing and social connection by providing a wide range of services and supports, including:

* Home Care program
* Senior Care Options (SCOs)
* One Care Program
* Adult Foster Care
* Family Caregiver Support Program
* Supportive Housing
* Options Counseling
* Evidence-based Program
* Accountable Care Organization (ACO) Program
* Long-term Services and Supports

M-F 9 am- 5 pm

Must be an elder or an individual with disabilities above the age of 16 years of age, or a caregiver.

Bowdoin Street Health Center

Bowdoin Street Health Center is proud to provide health services to you and your family. They have been an active participant in the Dorchester community for over 40 years and offer care for infants, children, teens, adults and seniors.

Recognizing how social and economic factors in the community can also influence an individual’s health status, Bowdoin Street actively engages with community organizations and public entities to prevent violence, improve access to healthy, affordable foods and promote wellness through exercise and stress reduction.

The Center is also an innovator in transforming its practice into a Patient-Centered Medical Home, improving patient outcomes through stronger provider-patient partnerships in co-managing one’s health. Bowdoin’s approach includes a self-care program, a multidisciplinary care team, group medical visits, screenings for depression and home visits.

Services include:

• Adolescent Case Management
• Adult Medicine
• Family Practice
• Family Planning
• HIV Services
• Geriatrics
• OB/GYN
• Pediatrics
• Optometry (Eyecare)
• Physical Therapy
• Mental Health and Counseling
• Nutrition Services
• Podiatry (Foot care)
• Community Health Programs

Mon-Thurs, 8:00am - 7:00pm; Fri, 8:00am-5:00pm; most Saturdays, 9:00am - 1:00pm

COVID-19 Testing Hours of Operation: Mon, Tues, Thurs, & Fri: 9:30am - 4:30pm; Wed & Sat: Closed

Bridge Over Troubled Waters

Bridge offers a comprehensive range of services to youth ages 14 to 24 in a positive and safe environment.

Street Outreach and Mobile Medical Van: Street Outreach is Bridge’s daily “foot patrol” of trained outreach workers who make regular consistent contact with homeless youth on the street throughout a range of neighborhoods in Boston and Cambridge. The Mobile Medical Van (MMV) connects with the street outreach team each weeknight. See specific hours below. The Van provides medical attention, survival kits, clothes, food and referrals.

Runaway Program: Bridge is the local respondent for the national runaway hotline offering 24-hour access to a counselor and a safe overnight accommodation away from the streets for homeless youth ages 14-17 for up to 72 hours.

Traditional Day Program (TDP): Visit the second floor of the Bridge building for a free breakfast or lunch. You can shower, use the lockers, do your laundry, attend a workshop, and see a case manager.

Medical Care: Bridge offers weekly free medical services staffed by healthcare professionals at the 47 West Street Facility.

Counseling and Support Services: Get help for substance abuse, family & peer relationships, survival needs and other crisis intervention services. Bridge counselors will support and listen to you.

Emergency Residence: Short-term transitional residence at the 47 West St. location for homeless youth ages 18 to 24. Youth commit to counseling, employment and continue their education. During the winter months, Bridge opens up the Warming Center, as an adjunct to the ER, each night to youth who need overnight shelter and survival each day from November through April.

Education and Career Development Program: Classes for youth to attain their HiSet. Takes place M – F from 9am – 12pm and 1pm – 4:00pm. Flexible schedule, rolling admissions, guidance counseling for youth who wish to enter or continue college or vocational program.

Transitional Living Program: Long-term transitional residential program. Residents are required to maintain employment, continue their education, and meet weekly with a counselor.

Single Parent Home: Transitional living program for pregnant and parenting homeless young women and their children. Serves up to 10 families at any given time and may stay for up to 2 years.

Housing: Bridge offers a variety of supportive services for youth seeking housing. Liberty House is the next step for young adults who have participated in their Transitional Living Program in Brighton. Bridge also currently participates in rapid re-housing programs for youth based on the “housing first” model. This program with the City of Boston is another avenue to prioritize youth for housing.

Intake: Mon. - Fri. 9am - 4:30pm
Mobile Medical Van Hours: Mon. - Fri., 5pm-6:30pm @ Boston Common, 7pm - 8:30pm @ Harvard Square

Youth only, ages 14 to 24

Brighton Allston Congregational Church: Thrift Shop and Food Pantry

Thrift Shop
Open on Saturdays 10:00a.m. – 1:00p.p.m. – includes children’s clothes, books, kitchen items, and more. There’s a “free store” downstairs in the church’s dining hall with out-of-season clothing and excess books and toys

Food Pantry: Baskets and Community Supper
The Allston-Brighton Food Pantry provides nourishing food at no cost to members of the Allston-Brighton community.

• Food baskets: 2nd & 4th Saturdays, 10am – 1pm (food baskets contain a 3 to 4 day food supply for one household)
• Community Supper: Wednesdays, 6pm

Food Basket- Am I eligible?
In order to qualify for the Food Basket program you must provide:

• Picture ID
• Proof of income eligibility (welfare card, Mass Health card, disability papers or unemployment papers), or a referral from a social worker, clergy member, hospital staff, Food Source hotline, etc.
• a letter with a current postmark confirming your address

If you meet all of these requirements, arrive at the Allston-Brighton Food Pantry (404 Washington St, Brighton) between 10am and 1pm to receive your food basket .

Bristol Lodge Men’s Shelter

The Bristol Lodge Men’s Shelter provides temporary, emergency shelter accommodations for 45 homeless adult men. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are in need of a bed, you must go through the pre-screening process by calling 781-893-0108, Monday through Friday.  Phone calls are accepted beginning at 9:00am.

Upon completion of the intake process, clients are given access to individualized case management services, meant to address and provide referrals for a wide spectrum of topics, including housing, employment, mental health, substance abuse, financial insecurity, nutrition and more.

• 18+
• Dry facility: Participants must remain sober and free of intoxicating substances of any type
• 90-day maximum stay, plus a 30-day waiting period before readmission

Bristol Lodge Women’s Shelter

The Bristol Lodge Women’s Shelter provides temporary, emergency shelter accommodations for 12 homeless adult women. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are in need of a bed, you must go through the pre-screening process by calling 781-893-0108, Monday through Friday.  Phone calls are accepted beginning at 9:00am.

Upon completion of the intake process, clients are given access to individualized case management services, meant to address and provide referrals for a wide spectrum of topics, including housing, employment, mental health, substance abuse, financial insecurity, nutrition and more.

• 18+
• Dry facility: Participants must remain sober and free of intoxicating substances of any type
• 90-day maximum stay, plus a 30-day waiting period before readmission

Brooke House

Brooke House is a 65-bed Community based Residential Reentry Program for male returning citizens. Residents receive evidence-based case management services and in-house clinical services that emphasize successful reentry.

Men referred by the county sheriffs’ departments, the Massachusetts Department of Correction, the Massachusetts Parole Board, or the Massachusetts Probation service.

Brookline Food Pantry

“Ensuring that none of our Brookline neighbors go to bed hungry.”

• Food pantry
  • The Brookline Food Pantry is open to Brookline residents who are in need of food assistance
• Emergency food delivery assistance
  • For those who are unable to go to a pantry location, they offer emergency food delivery

210 Harvard St. United Parish: Wednesdays 2pm - 5pm

(1) 226 High Street Brookline, Ma 02445
Tuesday: 3pm – 7pm

(2) 55A Egmont Street, Brookline 02446
Thursday: 3pm – 7pm
Saturday: 10am – 1pm

Food Pantry

• Brookline residents (limited capacity to serve residents in Brookline’s neighboring towns of Jamaica Plain, Brighton, Allston, and Roxbury)
• Permitted to shop at one of their pantry locations once a week
• Must have a valid ID to shop
• Masks required at all pantry locations
• Meet financial and food insecurity guidelines such as (but not limited to) receiving services from
  • Mass Health (Medicaid) – Commonwealth Care
  • SNAP (Formerly Food Stamp Program)
  • Department of Transitional Assistance (Child Services)
  • EAEDC (Emergency Aid to Elders, Disabled and Children)
  • RAFT (Residence Assistance for Families in Transition)
  • Unemployment Benefits
  • SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
  • TAFDC (Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children)
  • Veterans’ Assistance
  • TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
  • WIC (Women, Infants & Children up to age 5 at nutritional risk)
• Clients may also qualify if they are:
  • Recently unemployed
  • Loss of past services such as Meals on Wheels, Springwell, etc.
  • Referral

If you are unsure of whether you qualify, please call Elizabeth Boen, Director, at 617-800-5339

Emergency Food Delivery Assistance

• Must live in Brookline
• Disabled or high risk due to age, immune-compromised, or other related medical conditions
• Has a referral from local social service agencies (not required)

To see if you qualify for home delivery services, please call them at 617-800-5339

Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services

For over 40 years, Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services (CASLS) has provided free legal assistance to low-income families and individuals residing in Cambridge, Somerville, Arlington, Belmont, Woburn, and Winchester.

CASLS helps clients in their service area to gain access to some of the most basic necessities of life. This includes:

• affordable housing
• emergency assistance shelter for homeless families
• state public benefits including cash assistance (TAFDC, EAEDC)
• federal public benefits including SSI, SSDI and food stamps
• child care vouchers and related non-cash benefits
• MassHealth and other medical assistance programs

Residency in Cambridge, Somerville, Arlington, Belmont, Woburn, or Winchester.
Residency in Cambridge and Somerville for elders.
Income limitations may apply.

Cambridge Center for Adult Education

CCAE provides high-quality, place-based experiential education.

Classes

• Virtual Arts & Crafts
• Food & Wine
• ESL
• World Languages
• Performing Arts
• Humanities
• Life & Wellness
• Business & Technology

Other useful links

• Catalog
• Scholarships 

Must be 18 or older.

Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women (CCSW)

As a department of the City of Cambridge, the Commission on the Status of Women (CCSW) works to promote equity for women and girls and advocates on their behalf with other City departments and officials, local organizations, and state government to increase their opportunities through policy recommendations, program development and public awareness in key issue areas identified by the Commission as significantly affecting women and girls.

The Cambridge Women’s Commission recognizes, supports, and advocates for all who self-identify as women or with womanhood, including transgender, gender fluid, and non-binary persons. CCSW stands with and for all women and girls regardless of immigration status, sexuality, race, ethnicity, ability or religion.

COVID-19 update: Due to the pandemic, all city buildings remain closed to the public without an appointment.

Mon: 8:30am - 8:00pm
Tues-Thurs: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Fri: 8:30am - 12:00pm

Cambridge Community Learning Center

The Cambridge Community Learning Center (CLC) empowers a diverse community of adult learners to transform their lives and realize their potential through education, skills development, and community participation.

The Cambridge Community Learning Center helps adult learners:

• Earn a high school diploma – HiSET and GED preparation
• Prepare for college
• Become a Certified Nursing Assistant
• Learn English
• Advance in the early childhood education (ECE) field 
• Train for a career in Information Technology
• Become a U.S. citizen

Monday - Thursday: 8:30 AM - 9:30 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Cambridge Economic Opportunity Committee

Cambridge Economic  Opportunity Committee (CEOC) is an anti-poverty agency fighting to empower people and mobilize resources to fight poverty’s causes and impacts. See specific services below:

• College Assistance
• Financial Education
• Food Pantry
• Free Tax Preparation
• Health Insurance Assistance
• Housing Assistance
• Public Benefits Assistance 
• SNAP/Food Stamp Assistance

May vary by program

May vary by program

Cambridge Multi-Service Center

City Programs:

• MSC Case Managers
• Housing Search Assistance
• Cambridge Coordinated Access Network (C-CAN)
• The Carey Program
• Cambridge Haitian Services

Community Programs:

• Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services (CASLS)
  •  Clients must be referred for an appointment by an MSC Case Manager.  To be screened for a referral, attend a walk-in consultation with an MSC Case Manager during MSC walk-in hours or call the front desk at 617-349-6340
• DeNovo
• Eliot Community Human Services
  • Individuals experiencing HUD homelessness seeking connections to mental health services can ask the MSC front desk to be connected to an Eliot worker.
• Just-A-Start (JAS) Financial Opportunity Program
  • For a referral to this program please attend a walk-in consultation with a MSC Case Manager during MSC walk-in hours or contact Ian Davis directly: 617-918-7525 or IanDavis@justastart.org.
• HomeStart
• Metro Housing

Walk-in hours
Monday: 9:00am - 7:30pm
Tuesday - Thursday: 9:00am - 4:30pm
Friday: 9:00am - 11:30am

Cambridge Public Library

The Cambridge Public Library offers an array of innovative services that reach beyond research and circulation

• Meeting rooms for Cambridge based non-profit organizations
• Delivery service for homebound patrons
• Literacy programs including ESL, citizenship and basic computer classes
• Assistive technology
• Museum passes
• Tax assistance
• Social services 
  • The Library Social Worker is available to meet with you by phone or in person. Their licensed Social Worker can assist with:
    • Referrals to area agenices
    • Completing applications
    • Resource Navigation
    • Mental health/substance misuse linkage and referral

Monday - Thursday: 9am - 9pm
Friday & Satursday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 1pm - 5pm
Book drop open 24/7

Boudreau Branch: 245 Concord Ave. 02138 (Temporarily closed) (617-349-4017)

Central Square Branch: 45 Pearl St. (617-349-4010)

Collins Branch: 64 Aberdeen Ave. 02138 (617-349-4021)

O’Neill Branch: 70 Rindge Ave. 02140 (617-349-4023)

O’Connell Branch: 48 Sixth St. 02141 (617-349-4019)

Valente Branch: 826 Cambridge St. 02141 (617-349-4015)

Cambridge Women’s Center

The Women’s Center offers extensive FREE services to women. They provide direct services in a number of areas and will help point women to other local programs if needed. They have a wide array of support groups, classes, and workshops, and two computer labs in a large comfortable house. Pre-COVID women and their children could come in 10am-8pm weekdays and 10am-3pm Saturdays. They could use a phone, the kitchen, which includes food donations, a library, and more. They offer an extensive information, resources, and referral system, as well as provide crisis intervention and peer support counseling for women in crisis though a Helpline and in-person at the Center. The population using the center is very diverse, and includes many experiencing homelessness, women of color, trauma survivors, of different ages and backgrounds. Participant’s confidentiality is respected and they are not subjected to intake questioning.

Currently, drop-in hours are restricted and are on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Offerings include:

• At the front door: take out food and other material goods
• Inside (currently limited to 8 masked participants) computer use and assistance with internet access and printing, fax and phone use, resource referrals, emotional support, and connection to a caring and supportive community

Check the website for the specific hours

Currently open 3-8pm Tuesdays, and noon-5pm Thursdays and Saturdays. Check website for current hours.
The helpline is currently closed.

The Cambridge Women’s Center is a physical and digital community space open to anyone for whom woman is a meaningful identifier or lived experience. It is also open to children (including boys up to 14 years accompanied by mother or caretaker).

Participants are signed in at the front door (front name or pseudonym). There is no formal intake process, and no personal information is required or requested.

Casa Esperanza, Inc.

Casa Esperanza, Inc. is a bilingual/bicultural behavioral health facility that specializes in serving men and women with a history of substance abuse in Massachusetts.

Programs

• Men’s Program: four-to-six-month residential treatment program for men recovering from alcohol and drug addiction
  • For more information, click here. 
• Latinas y Niños Center: 6-12 month residential treatment program that focuses on the unique cultural and social needs of Latina women in recovery and their children
• Familias Unidas Relapse Prevention & Outpatient Services Program
  • For more information, click here.
• Conexiones Clinical Stabilization Services: 14-day bedded program providing clinical stabilization services to men and women in recovery from alcohol and substance use
• Peer & Graduate Services 
• Supportive Housing

Varies by program.

Varies by program.

Casa Myrna

Casa Myrna is Boston’s largest provider of domestic violence awareness efforts and of shelter and supportive services to survivors. Their comprehensive range of services, available in both Spanish and English, provide survivors with tools to recover from the trauma of abuse and begin to build sustainable self-sufficiency.

Free Supports for Survivors

• SafeLink Hotline
• Community Advocacy
• Housing Advocacy 
• Emergency Transfers
• Legal Advocacy 
• Economic Stability 
• Counseling
• Children’s Services
• Residential Programs

Supportive services are available by appointment during standard office hours.

Hotline is 24/7

CASPAR, Inc.

CASPAR (Cambridge And Somerville Program for Addiction Recovery) is a community-based non-profit organization founded in 1970 in response to growing community need for substance use disorder treatment.

FirstStep: The FirstStep Street Outreach program offers life-saving alternatives to unsheltered homeless men and women who are affected by substance use disorder, mental illness and medical complications associated with life on the streets.

Emergency Service Center: The Emergency Service Center (ESC) is one of three shelters in Massachusetts that accept homeless people who are actively using alcohol and drugs. At the ESC clients receive medical and mental health care, nutritional food, personal hygiene supplies, clean clothes, counseling, case management, and employment, housing, and treatment referrals in an environment that is welcoming and safe. The ESC provides a 24-hour shelter, 365 days a year to residents of Cambridge and Somerville.

Residential Programs: Their residential programs are designed to help individuals maintain sobriety, while developing skills they’ll need when they transition to the “real world.”

For residents of Cambridge or Somerville.
May be eligible if resident of Cambridge or Somerville before incarceration.
Services meant for people that struggle with substance use disorder addiction.

Cathedral Church of St. Paul – MANNA Community

The Monday Lunch program has been serving a freshly cooked hot lunch for anyone who desires it every week for thirty years. MANNA volunteers now join their long standing partner parishes to welcome the broader homeless community every Monday at 11:30 a.m.

Lunch is served every Monday from 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. in Sproat Hall.

Monday Lunch is still running, but in a modified manner to comply with the CDC and other public health requirements. They will be serving individually prepared meals.

The Cathedral offers additional services, including weekly masses, a microlibrary, meditation groups, and more. See the website for more information.

Mondays, 11:30am - 12:45pm

Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Boston

Catholic Charities operates a number of community service centers in eastern Massachusetts. The centers provide a wide variety of support services including some basic needs emergency assistance, education and training programs, transitional housing for families, child care, and family counseling, and support.

Programs:

• Basic Needs 
• Child Care
• Children & Youth
• Counseling
• Community Interpreter Services 
• Education
• Elder Services
• Family Support
• Nurse Assistant Training
• Post Adoption & Search
• Refugee Services 
• Shelter Services
• Sunset Point Camp
• Teen Center at St. Peter’s

For COVID-19 Program Updates, click here.

See CCAB website

Catholic Charities Program Locations
Catholic Charities Labouré Center
275 West Broadway, South Boston
617-464-8500
Also home to Refugee and Immigration Services & Community Interpreter Services

Catholic Charities Refugee and Immigration Services
275 West Broadway, South Boston
617-464-8100

Catholic Charities North
117 North Common Street, Lynn
781-593-2312

Catholic Charities South
169 Court Street, Brockton
508-587-0815

Catholic Charities Yawkey Center
185 Columbia Road, Dorchester
617-506-6600

Merrimack Valley Catholic Charities
70 Lawrence Street, Lowell
978-452-1421

Catholic Charities Child Care Locations
Yawkey Child Care Center
185 Columbia Road, Dorchester
617-506-6600

Nazareth Child Care Center
19 St. Joseph Street, Jamaica Plain
617-522-4040

Lynn Child Care Center
37 North Federal Street, Lynn
781-598-5547 ext. 230

Malden Early Education and Learning Program
77 Salem Street, Malden
781-397-6055

Peabody Child Care Center
13 Pulaski Street, Peabody
978-532-6860

Labouré Child Care Center
275 West Broadway, South Boston
617-464-8500

Home Based Family Child Care
6 Pleasant Street, Suite 220
Malden, MA
781-605-3330

Centro Comunitário Vida Nova

IBVN Church runs a community center that provides clothes, shoes, toys, books, furniture, and domestic utilities to those in need. The community center is run primarily by Portuguese speakers, but English speakers may also be available.

Saturdays 9am-12pm

29 Montvale Ave
Woburn, MA 01801

Please wear a mask.

Please bring bags.

Charlestown Adult Education Program

The primary mission of Boston Housing Authority (BHA) Charlestown Adult Education is to provide services that meet the needs of the people in the community, with first priority given to BHA and Boston residents.

Programs and services:

• Test Prep
  • Pre-HiSET
  • HiSET
  • Fast Track
  • Evening classes
• ESOL
  • Level 1, 2, and 3
• Reentry Services 
  • Job search assisance
  • Access to legal advice
  • Support in ID obtainment
  • Rental assistance
  • Substance use prevention
  • Transportation assistance
  • Food pantry
• Job Training
  • Home Health Aide Certification
  • Hospitality Training
  • Computer and Word Basics
  • HUD’s Jobs-Plus Pilot Program
  • Building Pathways Apprenticeship Program
  • OSHA 10 Training
  • YouthBuild
  • Construction Job Training

M - F: 9am - 5pm

City Mission: Homelessness Prevention

To provide families with relief, City Mission has four programs dedicated to homelessness prevention:

1. Emergency Needs Network
2. A Lift Up
3. Public Voice
4. A Path to Employment 
5. Food Assistance 

For more information please contact the Director of Homelessness Prevention Programs, Paola Miranda, at pmiranda@citymissionboston.org

M - F: 9am - 5pm

City of Cambridge Fuel Assistance Program/DHSP

Serving both the cities of Cambridge and Somerville, the Fuel Assistance Program assists low-income households with winter heating costs incurred between November 1 and April 30. Eligibility for the program is determined by gross household income that falls within the Federal Poverty guidelines.
The Fuel Assistance Program notifies and pays heating vendors directly for program participants that pay out of pocket for their heating costs. Program participants whose heat is included in their rent could be eligible to receive a payment, made directly to them, for the “heat” portion of their rent.

Monday 8:30am - 8:00pm
Tuesday - Thursday: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm

Must meet certain household income guidelines to be eligible.

College Bound Dorchester

College Bound Dorchester was built by, and for, the community and individuals who believe in the transformative power of education, and currently operates as Boston Uncornered. The organization’s Uncornered model scaffolds the best practices of mentorship with the proven success of high expectations and provides financial support to ensure that young adults are able to progress from a past of incarceration to a future of higher education and employability with a goal of unlocking the brilliance and power of Core Influencers as positive agents of peace to drive community change.

They focus on young adults aged 18 to 30 to support reentry and success with services for:

• HiSET preparation to complete a high school credential
• College readiness to enroll in a credentialed post-secondary pathway
• ‘On campus’ support to ensure success of a college degree
• Connection to a community-based mentor for access to additional services such as mental health, housing, and other needs

COVID-19 Update: Their physical buildings are currently closed due to the pandemic but they are providing services virtually.

Their buildings have reopened and we are following a COVID-19 policy that requires students to be vaccinated or wear a mask if not vaccinated.

Common Cathedral (Ecclesia Ministries, Inc.)

Programs:

Sunday Worship:
Located at Brewer Foundation on the Boston Common
Every Sunday at 1pm

Common Art:
Provides space, materials, and caring support staff to support unhoused and low income individuals as they develop their artistic abilities; breakfast and lunch are served
Located at Emmanuel Church Parish Hall, 15 Newbury Street, Boston
Every Wednesday 10am-2pm

BostonWarm:
Day warming center
Located at Emmanuel Church Parish Hall, 15 Newbury Street, Boston
Mondays and Fridays 8am-1pm

CityReach:
Overnight urban outreach program
See the information packet to learn more

Target population: Homeless, previously incarcerated people.

Community Servings – Teaching Kitchen

The Teaching Kitchen offers a job training program that consists of a 12-week curriculum covering all factors of working in a professional kitchen. This includes food safety, nutrition, knife skills, quality food preparation, and Servsafe certification.

Trainees learn by completing daily hands-on classes with a chef instructor, as well as through participation in a culinary internship in the Community Servings kitchen, where over 3,000 meals are made from scratch each day. The program also includes job readiness classes, resume writing, mock interviews, digital and financial literacy, and one year of job placement and job retention support for all graduates.

Monday through Thursday, 9am-4pm (arrive no later than 8:45am each day).

No formal classes are held on Fridays, but trainees are welcome to complete additional, voluntary culinary internship hours.

Must be a citizen or be legally registered. Proficiency in English. High school diploma/GED/HiSET not required. CORI friendly; not SORI friendly.

Community Work Services (CWS)

Founded in 1877, CWS helps people who face barriers to work obtain employment and achieve greater self-sufficiency through innovative job training, placement, and support services. Programs and support services include:

Education: The Career Design School 

• Total Facilities Management (offered at Boston Location)
• Warehouse and Fulfillment
• Job Readiness Program
• Hospitality
• Culinary Training Program
• At Your Service- Hotel Training (Certificate Program)
• Get Ready! (offered at Boston Location)

Economic Development

• Food Service & Catering
• Mailroom Operation Services
• Packaging and Fulfillment Center

Occupational Health

• CWS has a long history of serving people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) and delivering innovative services designed to help them achieve their greatest potential

Workforce Development

• Work Readiness
• Job Placement
• Post-Placement
• Case Management
• Legal Assistance & Benefits Counseling

Office and Program Hours: M – F: 8am - 4:00pm

All of CWS services have specific eligibility requirements. Interested candidates are encouraged to attend an agency tour to learn more about the program and their requirements. Tours are held year-round, every Wednesday at 1pm. Reservations are not required.

CORI & Re-entry Project: Greater Boston Legal Services

Greater Boston Legal Services helps people with CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) who are shut out of the economy, rejected for housing, and denied other opportunities because of their criminal records.

The Project focuses on Roxbury, Dorchester and Mattapan due to very high rates of unemployment and extreme poverty in these parts of Boston.

The project represents individual clients and engages in systemic law reform advocacy. Cases accepted include:

• Free CORI reports for low-income people
• Legal help sealing or expunging records and representation of clients at criminal record sealing hearings. Click here to link to record sealing and other booklets
• Appeal of denials of criminal record and juvenile sealing petitions
• Fixing mistakes on CORI reports and problems with juvenile court youthful offender records being listed on adult CORI reports in violation of the law
• Denial of the right to seal all of one’s Boston Municipal Court (BMC) cases from all divisions of the BMC in a single division of the court under BMC Standing Order 1-09
• Cases where a judge ordered sealing or expungement, but the Commissioner of Probation will not seal or expunge the CORI as ordered
• Violations of the BAN the BOX law where a job application asked about criminal records
• People denied or might be denied a professional license (driving for Uber or other transportation companies, trade licenses, etc.) because of CORI where: (1) an application asks about arrests and/or non-convictions; or (2) an application does not warn people not to list sealed records
• Rejections for housing, training or education programs, jobs or other things based on CORI
• Other criminal record problems that arise

GBLS walk-in sites at the Roxbury Court, Dorchester Court and Boston Municipal Court at Brooke courthouse stopped due to COVID, but expect to return starting in Roxbury by January 2022. Check GBLS website.

In the meantime, you can get help on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 2pm to 4pm by ZOOM click here to register for a clinic. You can also email your name, address and phone number to cori@gbls.org or leave a message at 617-603-1797.

Greater Boston Legal Services
197 Friend Street, Boston
Boston, MA 02114

Dorchester Court:
510 Washington St.
Dorchester, MA 02124

Boston Municipal Court
Boston Municipal Court, 2nd floor, Ed Brooke Courthouse
24 New Chardon Street,
Boston, MA 02114

Services are limited to low-income people with income less than 250% of federal poverty guidelines, but elders (age 50 or over) or people on Medicare are eligible regardless of income. Some of their pro bono volunteer attorneys also may represent clients who are not significantly above the poverty guidelines, and they make referrals to bar association pro bono and reduced-fee panels

Council on American-Islamic Relations (MA)

The Council on American-Islamic Relations – Massachusetts (CAIR-MA) is a chapter of America’s largest Muslim civil rights organization. CAIR-MA’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims and build coalitions that promote social justice and mutual understanding.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations – MA provides legal assistance and information on religious discrimination (anti-Muslim, Islamophobia) in employment, housing, law enforcement issues, harassment, hate crimes, and travel issues.

Monday - Friday: 9AM to 5PM

CPCS-Alternative Commitment & Registration Support Unit

The Alternative Commitment and Registration Support Unit (ACRSU) is a unit of the private counsel division that works to ensure that indigent clients are well-represented in sexually dangerous persons (SDP) proceedings in Superior Court, in Sex Offender Registry Board (SORB) proceedings before the SORB and Superior Court, and in the appeal of SORB and SDP cases to the appellate courts.

• Client Resources 
• Professional Resources 

De Novo: Center for Justice and Healing

De Novo provides free civil legal assistance and affordable psychological counseling to low-income people. Their services combat the effects of poverty and violence by helping clients and their children meet basic human needs for safety, income, health and housing.

De Novo provides high-quality, free civil legal assistance to low-income people living in Greater Boston, and to immigrants and refugees statewide. They offer legal assistance in the areas of housing and homelessness prevention, family law/domestic violence, immigrant and refugee rights, and disability benefits.

De Novo offers free legal services to victims of crime regardless of their income.

Legal Services

• Family law
• Immigration
• Housing
• Disability Benefits

They also provide counseling services.

• Individual psychotherapy
• Couples counseling
• Group psychotherapy

To request legal assistance, contact their Intake and Referral Line at (617) 661-1010 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday

Department of Mental Health and Forensic Services

Court-based forensic mental health assessments and consultations for people facing criminal or delinquency charges and civil commitment proceedings. Services provided:

Forensic Mental Health Services:

• Court based forensic mental health assessments and consultations who are facing criminal or delinquency charges and civil commitment proceedings.
• The Forensic Transition Team provides reentry services for DMH clients who are transitioning from prisons, jails, and other places of detention to the community.
• Jail diversion activities.

Check out DMH Forensic Mental Health Services at a Glance for more program information.

Adult Services:

• Adult Community Clinical Services

• Formerly Community Based Flexible Supports
• Respite Services
• Program of Assertive Community Treatment (PACT)
• Clubhouses
• Recovery Learning Communities (RLCs)
• DMH Case Management
• Homelessness Services

Child, Youth, and Family Services:

• Child/Adolescent Case Management
• Individual and Family Support Services
• Day Services
• Caring Together Services
• Clinically Intensive Residential Treatment (CIRT)
• Intensive Residential Treatment Programs (IRTP)
• Parent and Family Support Services
• Transition Age Youth
• School and Community Therapeutic Support
• Information and Referral
• Consultation and Education
• Juvenile Forensic Court Services
• Continuing Care Inpatient Services
• Massachusetts Child Psychiatry Access Program (MCPAP)

Disability Law Center

DLC is committed to promoting the civil and human rights of all persons with disabilities.

DLC’s Core Function is to keep people with disabilities safe from abuse and neglect wherever they live and where they receive services. DLC does this primarily by monitoring for abuse and neglect as well as investigating suspicious deaths and allegations of abuse and neglect.

Client services:

• They provide information, referral, technical assistance and representation regarding legal rights and services for people with disabilities
• They provide legal services to eligible people and groups whose cases meet DLC’s focus areas. Click here to view the issue areas that DLC will be focusing on in its current Fiscal Year
• They seek to strike a balance between systemic advocacy and individual representation
• Their experienced lawyers and paralegals conduct trainings for community groups and other advocacy organization

Please note that due to COVID-19 staff are working remotely. They are therefore not taking any walk-in visitors to help slow down the spread of COVID-19.

M-F: 9am - 5pm

Who They Serve:

• People with disabilities
• People with disability-related problems
• People with disabilities whose legal problem falls within a priority
• People with disabilities whose case has merit and DLC has the staff time and resources necessary to resolve the issue

Domestic Violence Ended (DOVE)

DOVE is a multi-service organization providing comprehensive direct services and support for victims of dating and domestic violence, as well as their children. DOVE’s services include crisis intervention, danger assessment and safety planning, supportive counseling, emergency shelter, legal advocacy and representation, and community outreach, education, and training.

Programs & Services Include:

• 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (617-471-1234 or 888-314-3683)
• Emergency Shelter 
• Community Based Advocacy & Counseling 
• Legal Advocacy program 
• Prevention & Education
• Support Groups 
• Civilian Domestic Violence Advocacy 
• Children’s Services 
• LGBQ/T Services 
• Chinese Advocacy Program 

Monday-Friday: 9:00am-5:00pm
Crisis hotline: 24/7

Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation

Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation runs a number of economic development programs, including a Reentry Program for returning citizens and the Workforce Development Program. These programs are available to Boston residents, and they offer individualized job pre-and-post job counseling and placement and job skill-building opportunities.

Reentry Program Participants can start in the program while in prison and continue after release with case management or come through different avenues. Guidance is offered with educational and employment goals, weekly support groups, and assistance with personal needs such as probation officer relationships and family/community relationships. Services provided can include job readiness programs, resume writing help, and a GED preparedness course.

Referrals are made on a case-by-case basis.

Update: Currently remodeling their building and have a temporary location at 572 Columbia Road, Dorchester. It is best to call and contact them before coming to the office. Doing meetings on zoom, on the phone, and in-person.

Please call for an appointment at 617-533-9575

Clients do not need a CORI to access services

Dress for Success Boston

The mission of Dress for Success is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.

Client services include:

• Suiting
• Career Advancement
• Leadership
• Employment Retention
• Job Training 

Please note: They have been experiencing technical difficulties with their phone system. Stay connected and contact them via email at empower@dfsboston.org.

Monday - Friday 9:30 AM to 4 PM

East End House: Emergency Food Program

The Food Pantry provides individuals and families in need with fresh fruits and vegetables, canned and dry goods, meats, and dairy products. Community members are welcome to come to the pantry two times per month.

For current information on available services, visit their Covid-19 resources page. 

Admin
Mon-Fri: 8:00am - 6:00pm

Pantry Hours
Tuesday: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Friday: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

They serve individuals and families in need in the Cambridge and Greater Boston area with no residency restrictions. On your first visit, you will be required to fill out an intake form. Bring ID and a form of income verification. Acceptable forms of verification include pay stubs, Medicare/Mass Health card, a DTA/EBT card, a referral, a benefit statement, or any other document that proves your income status.

Eastern Regional Legal Intake (ERLI)

ERLI is a project of the Volunteer Lawyers Project and provides a free legal intake line for low-income individuals seeking legal intake, information, advice and referrals.

ERLI handles intake for Greater Boston Legal Services, the Volunteer Lawyers Project, and limited intake for Metro West Legal Services.

ERLI’s service area includes the service areas of the Volunteer Lawyers Project, Metro West Legal Services, and Greater Boston Legal Services.

Callers must provide essential information about themselves such as contact information (name, date of birth, address), household size and income, amount of financial assets, and immigration status in order to be screened for legal services. Callers who are not eligible for direct representation with an Eastern Region legal services program are provided legal information and/or referrals.

ERLI screens and refers potential clients to Greater Boston Legal Services.

Their call center's hours during the pandemic are:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 9am - 12pm
Tuesday & Thursday: 12:30pm - 3:30pm

To qualify for VLP services, clients must:

• Live in their service area
• Have incomes under 125% or 200% of the federal poverty guidelines
• Have civil legal issues that meet VLP’s priorities
• Be a US Citizen or Legal Permanent Resident (green card holder) or have another status acceptable under the LSC rules

VLP refers people they can’t assist to organizations that may be able to help.

VLP Service Area: Acton, Arlington, Ashland, Bedford, Bellingham, Belmont, Boston, Braintree, Brookline, Cambridge, Canton, Carlisle, Chelsea, Cohasset, Concord, Dedham. Dover, Everett, Foxborough, Framingham, Franklin, Hingham, Holbrook, Holliston, Hopkinton, Hudson, Hull, Lexington, Lincoln, Malden, Marlborough, Maynard, Medfield, Medford, Medway, Melrose, Millis, Milton, Natick, Needham, Newton, Norfolk, Norwell, Norwood, Plainville, Quincy, Randolph, Revere, Scituate, Sharon, Sherborn, Somerville, Stoneham, Stow, Sudbury, Wakefield, Walpole, Waltham, Watertown, Wayland, Wellesley, Weston, Westwood, Weymouth, Winchester, Winthrop, Woburn, Wrentham.

Ecumenical Social Action Committee (ESAC)

ESAC works with vulnerable residents of many Boston neighborhoods by creating stability in homes and for families. ESAC strives to promote healthy, stable, and integrated neighborhoods and communities by connecting residents with necessary services and resources. Services include:

• Senior Home Repair and Falls Prevention
• Foreclosure Prevention
• Benefits Enrollment Center
• ESAC Youth Opportunity Collaborative (EYOC)
• Housing Stabilization

Varies by program, please see website.

Child or Older Adult. Some programs require Boston residency or low to moderate income.

Elizabeth Stone House

The Elizabeth Stone House partners with adult and child survivors of domestic violence and related trauma – mental illness, housing instability, and substance misuse – to achieve safety, stability, and overall wellbeing.

Service offerings include:

• Support Services
  • Intervention and ongoing advocacy
    • Crisis intervention
    • Meeting basic needs
    • Advocacy and accompaniment
  • Individual help and personal counseling
    • Sustained individual help
    • Financial stability
    • Immigration issues
  • Support groups and life/skills education
    • Support groups
    • Parenting & life/skills education
• Housing
  • Emergency shelter
  • Transitional housing
  • Permanent supportive housing
  • Rent-subsidized permanent housing
• Families and Children
  • Case management and advocacy
  • Family strengthening activities
  • Parenting support groups and classes
  • Full-day child care
  • Child care during programs/visits

COVID-19 Update: The Elizabeth Stone House building is not open to non-residents, but staff are still available to assist individuals via phone.

EMERGE (Batterer’s Intervention)

Emerge is a group counseling and education program for men and women who are abusive in intimate partner relationships. Emerge sees clients who have been abusive in heterosexual and same-sex relationships. All programs satisfy court/probation and DCF requirements.

• Abuser Education
• Anger Management
• Caring Dads Group
• Training
• Materials
• F.A.Q.
• Resources for Survivors 

Due to concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19, Emerge has moved ALL ongoing groups to a video platform.

Spanish groups are held at Curtis Hall Community Center, 20 South St, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130

Group members must admit to having been physically, emotionally, verbally, economically, or sexually abusive to a partner in an intimate relationship for the Abuser Intervention Program. For the Anger Management Program, the incident(s) must be non-intimate partner related (e.g. involving coworkers, strangers, friends, or other family members).

Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA)

Executive Office of Elder Affairs promotes independence, empowerment, and well-being of older people, individuals with disabilities, and their families by providing access to services through partnerships with agencies throughout Massachusetts. Services include:

• Executive Office of Elder Affairs Public Records
• Reporting Elder Abuse and Neglect
• In-Home Services
• Health Insurance Counseling
• Prescription Drug Assistance
• Senior Housing Resources
• Councils on Aging & Senior Centers
• Nutrition Program for Seniors
• MassHealth for Seniors and People who need Long-Term Care Services
• Family Caregiver Support Program
• Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)
• Dementia Friendly Massachusetts
• Assisted Living
• Advocacy Services
• Legal help for elders

Varies by program.

Older adults and individuals with disabilities.

Faith Lutheran Church: Faith Kitchen

In partnership with Temple Beth Shalom, Faith Lutheran Church warm and nutritious serves to-go meals at 6:30 p.m. on the second and last Tuesdays of each month in the parking lot at 311 Broadway. You don’t have to sign up ahead of time. Just come! There are often seconds, which they begin giving away at 7:00 pm.

Second and last Tuesdays each month, 6:30pm.

Father Bill’s Place

Father Bill’s & MainSpring is an emergency shelter for individual adults experiencing homelessness. The main goal is to help people get stabilized and on a pathway toward permanent housing and self-sufficiency. Father Bill’s & MainSpring provides supportive services, access to on-site shower facilities and a medical clinic, and referrals to community agencies, including those in mental health, substance abuse, housing, and employment. 3 meals a day can also be provided.

24/7

54 North Main Street
Brockton 02301
508-587-5441

Guests must prove tie or connection to the greater Quincy/Brockton/South Shore area; Must speak to assessment specialist; Male or Female, 18+; Sex offenders must register with Quincy/Brockton Police Department.

Fathers’ Uplift Inc.

Fathers’ UpLift works to assist fathers in overcoming barriers (financial, oppressive, emotional, traumatic, and addiction-based) that prevent them from remaining engaged in their children’s lives. We engage in a three-tiered approach to our mission, focusing first on impacting individuals, then on building families, and finally on enabling societies and communities to better serve and support fathers and families beyond our doors. These three tiers of impact are upheld by four pillars of programs outlined below:

1. Clinical Support program: Clinical therapy services for men and families to help them navigate challenges related to parenting and expressing their feelings.
2. Therapeutic Coaching services: Personal mentorship/guidance and holistic assistance with stressors such as employment, houselessness, custody challenges, and more. Involved in our Therapeutic Coaching services is our Fathers’ Homecoming Program in which Fathers’ UpLift meets with men up to 6-months prior to reentry to build a plan of care. Upon release, we provide a “Bag for Dad” and transportation to their current place of residence.
3. Youth Services: Supporting fatherless youth with programming to address the root cause of fatherlessness and stop cycles of father absenteeism.
4. Male Engagement Institute: Trainings, curriculum, and internships provided with the goal of guiding mental health agencies, government agencies, and schools of social work on how to best serve and support fathers and families.

Central to Fathers’ Uplift’s mission is a priority placed on making mental health accessible and familiar for historically marginalized and low-income communities. We believe that therapy and coaching services are most effective when staff share cultures, backgrounds, and experiences with the population they’re serving. Because of this belief, the majority of Fathers’ Uplift staff are people of color, including both Black and Hispanic coaches, making our services accessible to both English-speaking and Spanish-speaking populations in our community and maximizing feelings of trust and familiarity.

Mon: 9am-7:30pm
Tues: 9am-5pm
Wed: 9am-7:30pm
Thurs: 9am-5pm
Fri: 9am-5pm
Sat: appointment only
Sun: Closed

Fenway Health

Fenway Health advocates for and delivers innovative, equitable, accessible health care, supportive services, and transformative research and education. They center LGBTQIA+ people, BIPOC individuals, and other underserved communities.

Services

• Primary Care – Adults & Children
• Women’s Health
• Transgender Health
• Behavioral Health
• Eye Care
• Dental Care 

The Sidney Borum, Jr. Health Center, is a program of Fenway Health that provides safe, non-judgmental care for young people ages 12-29 who may not feel comfortable going anywhere else.

1.1340 Boylston Street: Mon-Thurs: 7:30am-7:30pm; Fri: 7:30am-6:30pm; Sat: 8:30am-1:30pm
2. South End: Mon-Thurs: 8:00am - 7:00pm; Fri: 8:00am-5:00pm
3. Sidney Borum, Jr. Health Center: Mon-Thurs: 9:00am-7:00pm; Fri: 8:00am - 5:00pm

1. Fenway: South End (142 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116)
2.  Sidney Borum, Jr. Health Center (75 Kneeland Street, Boston, MA 02111)

First Church in Cambridge

Homeless Ministries

The First Church Shelter

• Their 14-bed men’s shelter operates 365 days a year and makes a long-term investment in individuals, including a full spectrum of support services to assist in residents’ specific needs as they seek stable housing
• During non-COVID times, the Shelter opens at 6:00 every evening, and guests depart by 7:00 in the morning. In March 2020, however, the Shelter rapidly transitioned to become a daytime as well as a nighttime refuge for guests. It remains open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Contact: Jim Stewart (jstewart@firstchurchshelter.org or 617- 661-1873)

The Friday Café

• The Friday Café, a weekly daytime drop-in program, offers a welcoming space where homeless and housed adults can gather and get to know each other
• Hours: Fridays from 12:00-3:00pm
• Contact: Rev. Kate Layzer (kate@thefriday.cafe or 617-851-5074)
• fridaycafe@firstchurchcambridge.org

Shelter: 18+; must be drug and alcohol-free; not able to admit guests who are experiencing an acute psychiatric emergency; no registered sex offenders

Food Not Bombs

The Boston chapter of Food Not Bombs serves a free and healthy vegan meal every week. Run solely by volunteers, at Food Not Bombs you’ll find no bosses or leaders, They serve one meal weekly year-round and rarely if ever, miss a meal. They also sometimes serve at special events and protests. Everyone is encouraged to come eat, volunteer, and share ideas. All are welcome at their table.

Serve the meal from 12:30pm until food runs out (usually between 2-3) at the Carl F. Barron Plaza in Cambridge Central Square

Because the meal is served outside, they do not limit the number of people there, and you can join without signing up.

Members are required to wear masks to cook and serve the food.

Foodsource Hotline – Project Bread

Project Bread toll-free FoodSource Hotline is the only comprehensive statewide information and referral service in Massachusetts for people facing hunger.

Project Bread’s toll-free FoodSource Hotline provides:
• Information on and referrals to emergency food pantries and meal programs
• Information about SNAP/food stamps including screening for eligible and general questions from current recipients
• Over the phone SNAP application assistance and follow-up
• Information about free and reduced-price school and summer meal programs for children
• Information on the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC)

M - F: 8am - 7pm; Sat: 10am - 2pm

Service available by telephone only.
Available to all Massachusetts residents.
Having a criminal record and/or being homeless does NOT disqualify anyone from being eligible for Food Stamps.

Freedom Hill Community Church – Food Pantry

Their Food Pantry serves hundreds of people each year, providing food for anyone in need. Guests receive a nutritious supply of groceries to help them get by.

Pantry operations during COVID-19: They intend to remain open during this time. Their hours of operation will not change. However, to practice social distancing, they’re asking guests to park in their lot and remain in their cars. Please do not enter the building. Pantry staff will bring groceries out to their guests. If you walk or take public transportation to the pantry, please remain outside the door and staff will assist you there.

Tuesday evenings from 6:30pm - 8:00pm

They have no geographic restrictions – all are welcome.

Friends Meeting at Cambridge – Sharing Circle

Every Wednesday at 6:00 pm those formerly incarcerated and those who care about them meet for dinner and sharing.

For more information contact office@fmcquaker.org with subject “attn. Patricia Wild”.

Due to COVID restrictions, be sure to call first to confirm; sometimes they are on Zoom only, sometimes in person and on Zoom.

Wednesdays 6pm – 9pm

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem.

Information about meetings is available on the website.

24/7

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop gambling. There are no dues or fees for Gamblers Anonymous.

Garment District

The Garment District is a large and unique retail clothing store, stocking all styles of women’s and men’s new and used clothes, shoes, and accessories.

By the Pound: shoppers may buy clothing for $2 a pound

They are only available to answer phone calls and respond to emails during their regular operating hours (Eastern Time): Sunday - Friday: 11am - 8pm & Saturday: 10am - 8pm

By the Pound is closed until further notice

Gavin Foundation

The Gavin Foundation operates more than a dozen adult and youth programs independently or in collaboration with other agencies. See more information below and on the website.

Residential Programs

• Charlestown Recovery House
• Gavin House and the Graduate Centers
• Hamilton House 
• Cushing House for Transitional Age Youths

Community Programs

• Center for Recovery Services
• Devine Recovery Center
• Quincy Acute Treatment Services/Clinical Stabilization Services (Detox)
• AWOL – Alcoholics Anonymous Way of Life 
• Re-Entry Program
• Total Immersion Program (TIP)

Collaboration Programs

• Access to Recovery (ATR)
• William J. Ostiguy High School

GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders (GLAD)

GLAD maintains GLAD Answers which provides legal information, referrals on issues related to sexual orientation, HIV status, and gender identity and expression. These issues include employment and housing discrimination, harassment, HIV testing rights and privacy, access to health care, family law, insurance, immigration, youth and student rights, and many others.

Although you can call, email, or chat online to get more information, during the COVID-19 pandemic, they are not able to answer phone calls live at this time but will return your call. Live chat is also unavailable. During this time, email is the quickest way to get a response.

Target population: gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and people with HIV.

Greater Boston Legal Services (GBLS)

Emergencies are directed to an advocate all day. If there is a very high volume of calls, you may be on hold for a period of time, but someone will eventually answer the call.

For help with criminal and juvenile record sealing, expungement & CORI problems: Email cori@gbls.org or leave a message with your name, address and phone number at 617-603-1797 (please call between 9:00am and 5:00pm Monday to Friday)

GBLS does not handle criminal cases. It provides free legal representation and legal advice to low-income individuals and families in civil cases. GBLS also engages in systemic litigation, class actions, and legislative advocacy on behalf of its clients.

Major areas related to CORI and low-income people trying to transition to the workforce include:

CORI & Re-entry Project: GBLS is a statewide leader on legal issues related to CORI and the only legal services program focused on legal representation of clients in court on CORI issues and legal advice on criminal record sealing, expungement, appeals of denials of CORI sealing petitions, juvenile record sealing problems, professional licensing problems, CORI barriers and discrimination related to jobs and other opportunities, including EEOC or other CORI law violations; and CORI systemic initiatives related to implementation of CORI laws or new legislation. The Project provides community legal education focused primarily on Dorchester and Roxbury. In addition to help with CORI, GBLS has units that help low income people with other kinds of legal issues. See more information here.

Employment Unit: GBLS represents clients in unemployment insurance claims (including extended unemployment benefits to participate in vocational training) and wage and hour violations against employers that exceed $1,000.

Health & Disability Issues: GBLS helps with termination of benefits related to a criminal warrant; access to government disability benefits.

Housing Unit: GBLS provides eviction help for tenants, home foreclosure prevention, preservation of affordable housing, access to and preservation of shelter for the homeless, and representation of people with children living in a shelter who are denied priority status or who are denied eligibility because of CORI or tenant suitability; housing transfers related to domestic abuse (VAWA).

Other areas of legal practice:

Asian Outreach Project: Special outreach to Chinese and Vietnamese speaking clients and legal assistance to Asian immigrants in the areas of employment and family law; representation of client groups in community empowerment initiatives.

Children’s Disability Project: Provides representation to children with disabilities wrongfully denied Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

Consumer Rights Unit: Unfair and deceptive consumer practices, particularly related to debt collection, home foreclosures, and bankruptcies.

Elder Law issues: Includes housing, elder abuse, nursing home issues; guardianship; Social Security; MassHealth and access to healthcare; veterans’ benefits, Food Stamps, SSI, federal and state disability benefits.

Family law/domestic violence: Provides representation in divorce, restraining order and family law court matters for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault to address safety issues and family and economic stability.

Immigration Unit: Researches asylum claims for people fleeing political, gender-based, and/or LGBT persecution, obtaining legal immigrant status for battered women and minor children.

Welfare Unit: Includes obtaining and retaining TAFDC and EAEDC cash benefits, SNAP/Food Stamp benefits, childcare and education/training benefits, and issues related to any of these benefits.

GBLS is considering different ways to help people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please check the website for updates: GBLS Services during the Coronavirus.

GBLS also represents community groups and provides community legal education and legislative advocacy for clients.

Monday - Friday: 9:00am - 5:00pm

People who have not yet done intake are asked to call during the following times if it is not an emergency. Intake hours for non-emergency problems are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 9:00am-12:30pm or Tuesday, Thursday 12:30-3:30pm.

Cambridge/Somerville Office
60 Gore St., Suite 203, Cambridge, MA 02141, 617-603-2700

Roxbury Courthouse
85 Warren St. Roxbury, MA
Walk-in clinics on the 3rd Thursday of the month from 9:00am – 12:00pm will resume after COVID-19 emergency is lifted.

Dorchester Courthouse
410 Washington St. Dorchester, MA
Walk-in clinics on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 9:00am – 12:00pm will resume after COVID-19 emergency is lifted

Agency serves residents of Boston and 31 surrounding cities and towns, mostly within Route 128. Complete listing of geographic areas served is on web site. Income limitations (usually restricted to persons with incomes less than 125% of federal poverty guidelines) are applicable, with the exception of elderly clients and Medicare beneficiaries who are not subject to the income guidelines.

Greater Love Tabernacle, Inc.

Programs

• GLT Prison Prevention Ministry: Under the leadership of Reverend Emanuel Hutcherson, the Future Hope Apprenticeship Program looks to assist with job opportunities in the construction trade, along with life skills, education, and job readiness training for a sustainable FUTURE. The program is committed to providing professional guidance and supportive resources to underserved neighborhoods. They aim to build community and family leaders by replacing fear and doubt with HOPE.
• HIV/AIDS Ministry: Their mission is to increase HIV & AIDS awareness in the Christian community while empowering them to serve people infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.  As an outreach ministry, they are particularly interested in reaching those with little knowledge about the disease to better assist in prevention and treatment.

  Please feel free to reach out by calling the confidential GLT HIV/AIDS Service Helpline at (617) 740-9480.

Office hours: Tues-Fri: 9:30am - 5:00pm; Sun: 1pm-2pm

Haley House

Haley House uses food with purpose and the power of community to break down barriers between people, empower individuals, and strengthen neighborhoods.

Five Branches

Food & Meals Programs

• Soup Kitchen
  • 23 Dartmouth Street, Boston, MA 02116
    • All guests are welcome
      • Breakfast: Tue-Fri: 8:00am-9:30am, doors open at 6:15am for coffee/snacks
      • Lunch: Sun: 2:00-3:00pm
• Food Pantry
  • 23 Dartmouth Street, Boston, MA 02116
    • All guests are welcome
    • Thurs: Tickets distributed at 7am, bags distributed at 10am
• Elder Meals
  • 23 Dartmouth Street, Boston, MA 02116
    • Currently on hiatus, check website for updates

Clothing Room

• Men’s clothing
• Tuesdays during breakfast

Housing

• Contains 110 units of permanent, affordable housing scattered throughout the South End neighborhood. 24 units are reserved for formerly homeless individuals who stay an average of 8.2 years. The remaining units are reserved for low-income families.

Urban Farming

• Through urban farming at Haley House, we grow accessible, affordable, colorful, nutrient-dense, flavorful, beautiful food. We currently steward two plots of land: the McKinley School Garden, and the Thornton Street Farm and focus on creating positive, healing, empowering and rich relationships between the people and the land.

Education & Training

• Take Back the Kitchen (TBK)
• Life Foundations Training (LiFT) Reentry Program
• Social Enterprise: Haley House Bakery Cafe
  • Currently on hiatus until construction is finished at 2147 Washington Street (anticipated early 2024)

Harbor Health

Harbor Health Services Inc. is a non-profit public health agency with a mission to help individuals achieve their full potential through access to local, affordable services that promote health. Harbor provides medical, behavioral health, dental, and support services to more than 34,000 patients in Boston, the South Shore, and Cape Cod.

Harbor Health operates five community health centers:

• Geiger Gibson Community Health Center 
• Daniel Driscoll – Neponset Health Center
• Harbor Community Health Center – Plymouth
• Harbor Community Health Center – Hyannis
• Ellen Jones Community Dental Center – Dennis 

Varies by location, check website.

Geiger Gibson Community Health Center
250 Mt Vernon St
Dorchester, MA 02125
617-288-1140

Daniel Driscoll – Neponset Health Center
393 Neponset Avenue
Dorchester, MA 02122
617-282-3200

Harbor Community Health Center – Plymouth
10 Cordage Park Circle
Plymouth, MA 02360
508-778-5470

Harbor Community Health Center – Hyannis
735 Attucks Ln
Hyannis, MA 02601
508-778-5420

Ellen Jones Community Dental Center
Patriot Square
516 Route 134
South Dennis, MA 02660
508-778-5400

Harvard Square Churches Meal Program

The Harvard Square Churches Meal Program hosts an evening meal every Thursday night at Christ Church, Cambridge. A Marketplace accompanies the meal composed of canned goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, bread, toiletries.

Doors open at 5:00pm with the meal served, restaurant-style at 5:30pm

The Harvard Square Churches Meal Program hosts an evening meal every Thursday night at 5:00 at Christ Church, Harvard Square, Cambridge.

Harvard Square Homeless Shelter (HSHS)

Harvard Square Homeless Shelter (HSHS) is a dry shelter open from November 1 until April 15. HSHS is student-run and operates out of the basement of University Lutheran Church in Harvard Square. HSHS works to provide guests with shelter, food, security, and a supportive environment of mutual respect.  HSHS serves 24 men and women every night.

Services

• Reserving a Bed
  • Three-week beds
    • Lotteries for 3-week beds occur on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. To enter, call (888) 285-4083 between 7:30am and 8am on those days. At 8:10am, results will be announced on their voicemail and posted on their front door.
  • One night beds
    • Many nights, they hold a lottery for a 1-night emergency beds. To check if one is occurring and enter, call (888) 285-4038 between 9pm and 9:30pm. Call to ask about results between 9:40pm and 10:30pm.
• Meals (Guests receive breakfast and dinner. Blankets, basic toiletries, and food are available for guests as well as non-guests at the door)
• Laundry (HSHS maintains a washer and dryer for guest use)
• Computers (Three computers with internet connection and a printer are available for guests throughout their stay)
• Referrals (If no beds are available at HSHS, staff will make referrals to other shelters upon request)
• Case Management (Their Resource Advocacy program provides case-management to their guests to help them connect with social services in the Boston/Cambridge area)

7pm to 8am, except on Saturday mornings when the shelter remains open until 9am

Office Address:
Phillips Brooks House Association
1 Harvard Yard
Cambridge, MA 02138

Self-referral

Dry shelter – no drugs, no alcohol

Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center

Harvard Street Health Center provides the following services:

• Family Medicine
• Adolescent Clinic
• OB/GYN
• Dental Clinic
• Adult Medicine
• Pediatric Care
• Optometry
• Nutrition
• Behavioral Health
• Pharmacy
• Podiatry
• Laboratory

Programs

• Food Pantry
• Veterans Center
• WIC 

Behavioral Health/Veteran’s Center
895 Blue Hill Avenue
Dorchester, MA 02124
617-822-7129

Harvest on Vine by St. Mary-St. Catherine of Siena Parish

Harvest on Vine offers a variety of items each distribution. The families they serve receive a week’s worth of food, twice a month.

Food distributions take place on the second Saturday at 10am, and the last Tuesday of each month at 2pm.

Proof of residence

Heading Home

Heading Home offers a variety of services available to individuals and families. These include:

Shelters & Emergency Services:
Dorchester and Roxbury Family Shelters: 6 emergency assistance shelters for 42 families.

Transitional Housing:
Medford Family Life Education Center: Emergency shelter for 6 families and transitional shelter for 2 families.
Transitional Apartments: 17 supported single-resident apartments for families receiving support services.

Permanent Housing:
Congregate Housing: Supported permanent housing provided for men and women with shared living spaces in Cambridge.
Scattered-Site Apartments
Permanent Housing Partnership: Permanent housing and intensive services for individuals with disabilities, provided through partnerships with housing development corporations.

If you are a homeless individual looking for housing, please contact Michael Montanille, Individual Services Intake Coordinator at 617.864.8140, ext. 119 or download a copy of their application for permanent housing online.

Varies by program

Different programs may have requirements; ask when applying.

Health Law Advocates

Health Law Advocate (HLA) provides high-quality, free legal assistance to income-eligible Massachusetts residents having difficulty accessing health care or health insurance coverage. HLA also provides legal assistance to consumers with unaffordable medical debt. HLA represents individuals and litigates class-actions and impact cases.

HLA specializes in:

• Challenging denials of health insurance enrollment (commercial and public insurance)
• Fighting denials of coverage for specific health care services (commercial and public insurance)
• Protecting patients from illegal medical billing and collection practices
• Obtaining access to health care through state agencies and school systems, especially for children

Please click here for information about seeking legal assistance from HLA.

• Resident of Massachusetts
• Income eligibility under 2021 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) guidelines
• Visit https://www.healthlawadvocates.org/get-legal-help/intake-procedure for more information

Hearth

Hearth is a non-profit organization dedicated to the elimination of homelessness among the elderly.

Currently, Hearth, Inc. operates 228 units of permanent supportive housing located in seven different buildings throughout the Greater Boston area.

• Anna Bissonnette House
  • Forty units of permanent supportive housing in the heart of the South End
• Elsie Frank House
  • Congregate housing for nine elderly women in peaceful Jamaica Plain
• Hearth at Burroughs Street
  • Congregate housing for fourteen formerly homeless seniors near beautiful Jamaica Pond
• Hearth at Olmsted Green
  • Fifty-units of permanent supportive housing near Franklin Park in Dorchester
• Ruggles Assisted Living
  • 100% affordable assisted living with forty-three studio apartments near Dudley Square
• Ruth Cowin House 
  • Nine studio apartments in Brookline
• Hearth at Four Corners
  • 54 units of supportive, affordable housing for older adults

Housing Applications can be found here. 

M - F: 9am - 5pm

Representation at all major shelter locations.

Low income seniors age 55 and up

Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church

Open Door Soup Kitchen & St. Bridget’s Food Pantry

• Their mission is to help feed the hungry
• They have been serving warm, nutritious, homemade meals every Monday evening for over 30 years!
  • Guests are served a full, restaurant-style meal
• They serve Allston, Brighton, and neighboring communities
• St. Bridget’s pantry also supplies grocery bags of food to their guests
  • They give out approximately 65 to 75 bags each Monday
  • Their goal with each grocery bag is to supply at least a couple of good, protein-rich meals

Open Door Dinner: Mondays 6 - 7pm

HomeStart, Inc.

HomeStart aims to end homelessness in Greater Boston by assisting individuals in obtaining housing and settling into the community, and by developing strategies to prevent homelessness before it starts.

Services

• Prevention 
• Housing Search
• House Stabilization
  • HomeStart
  • Housing First

Monday - Friday: 9am-12pm; 1pm-4:45pm
Walk-in Hours: Currently suspended due to office closure

Hope House

Hope House’s mission is to provide individualized treatment to those living with a substance use disorder (SUD). Individuals will receive education and support allowing them to pursue their life interests with families, employers, and be self-sufficient members of their communities.

Programs

• Residential 
• Outpatient

Varies by program.

House of Hope, Inc. – Lowell

House of Hope is dedicated to assisting homeless families in Massachusetts. We provide services to families referred to us by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). If you are a family or individual experiencing homelessness or are at imminent risk of homelessness, you can contact DHCD directly to gain access to resources and referrals:

Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development
Division of Housing Stabilization
To apply for shelter services, please call (866) 584-0653 and speak with a Homeless Coordinator.

Learn2Work:
Workforce Development and Economic Self-sufficiency

Understanding the need to empower homeless parents with essential employment skills, a positive employment experience, and an increased sense of self-worth to serve as the foundation for long-term employment stability, we developed the Learn2Work Program, which provides a supportive work environment that ignites the desire within each intern to successfully support their family and make a difference in their community.

The Learn2Work Program also provides “soft-skills training” (such as communication and interpersonal skills) and job-placement support to every intern. Interns gain job-skills in a supportive work environment (either retail or culinary) that empowers them to implement personal career plans and work through employment issues that are the basis for any employment success. The goal of the Learn2Work Program is to provide a supportive work environment that ignites the desire within each intern to successfully support their family and make a difference in their community.

Interns discover that work is valuable, work allows them to give back to society, and it builds their self-esteem. We have learned that our internships can literally transform our intern’s relationship to work.

The families who are living in our shelters will be the source of the 25-35 interns per year who will gain real world experience as they operate our retail store and prepare and serve our meals as they Learn2Work!

Learn2Work includes two initiatives: the Hope Chest Retail Program and a Culinary Skills Program.

HousingWorks

HousingWorks is a resource for Housing Advocates and Landlords to search and apply to all subsidized and affordable housing in New England. HousingWorks lists all of the ex-offender housing resources they can locate.

People seeking low-income housing should watch the video (from the website link above). The video is recommended because it teaches you what you need to know *before* you search – and also helps you do the search at the same time. By the time you have finished the video, you will have also finished your housing search.

Online resources only; not available by phone or email.

HousingWorks does not work with individuals or families; instead, they work with their case managers and advocates.

iCater Job Training Program at Pine Street Inn

Exciting opportunity to gain skills, earn income and join a supportive community. The Workforce Development department at Pine Street Inn runs two paid job training programs: iCater (food services) and iLaundry (housekeeping).  The program orientation is every eight weeks, and the programs last between four and six months.  This is a referral-based program—applicants can ask a case manager or clinician to help them apply.  The program has Job Placement Specialists and a Stabilization Specialist to help you continue your employment journey even after the program ends.

General inquiries: 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday.
Actual training program hours vary, with trainees beginning the program at a part-time schedule and moving to a full-time schedule after eight weeks.

This is a referral-based program; applications must be submitted by a case manager, clinician, or other provider. Applicants must be able to stand for long periods, bend, and lift up to 25 lbs. Additionally, applicants who have a history of SUD must have achieved at least 60 days of sobriety by the time of their enrollment. Because this program includes paid employment, applicants must submit proof of ID and work authorization to satisfy the I-9 form.

InnerCity Weightlifting (ICW)

ICW offers their students the opportunity to learn a valuable skillset, personal training, and this experience allows students to meet clients from opposite socio-economic backgrounds, build an invaluable network, all while making a stable living.

ICW also offers a case management program where they offer their students the opportunity to become ready for employment through resume workshops, mock interviews, housing assistance, and more.

Mon-Thurs: 9am - 5pm
Fri: 9am- 2pm
(Hours may vary)

1. Kendall Square, Cambridge MA
2. Dorchester, MA

Prioritize individuals who have been referred by courts, jails/prisons, and organizations but is willing to help any individual who has been a victim/perpetrator of gun violence.

Institute for Health and Recovery – Project Promise

Virtual day treatment groups 3x a week, Monday through Friday

• Individual Substance Use Treatment
• Peer Mentoring to support your recovery
• Groups focused on Parenting and Child Development
• Case Management
• Support for family members, including groups for fathers/male partners

Groups: Monday-Friday 10am-2pm
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Currently holding groups via Zoom

Are you pregnant or do you have a baby?

Has alcohol or other drugs been an issue for you?

Are you looking for support to work on your recovery AND be the best mom you can be?

Institution for Sexual Wellness

The Institution for Sexual Wellness provides evidence‐based comprehensive assessment, psycho-pharmacological and psycho-therapeutic sex offender treatment to individuals whose behaviors pose a high risk to themselves and/or others. Services offered include full clinical evaluations, dynamic risk assessments and treatment needs evaluation, interim evaluation, firesetting evaluations, forensic evaluation and consultation,  group and individual therapy, as well as psycho-pharmacological therapy.

Call the Institution for Sexual Wellness at (617) 479-4501 to schedule an initial appointment.

M-W: 9am-5pm, and flexibility as on a needs-be basis

Jamaica Plain Community Center, Adult Learning Program

The Jamaica Plain Community Centers Adult Learning Program (JPCCALP) is the ideal way to develop your skills in English, math, reading, and writing, and make progress towards your goals. They offer free day, evening, and online classes convenient for busy adults. ALP is a full-service program where students can begin at any level and advance through the highest levels.

Office is open M - Th: 10am - 7pm

Jeremiah Program – Boston

Jeremiah Program is an organization focused on uplifting families and disrupting generational poverty. They facilitate an experience that partners with families led by single mothers to achieve a college degree while at the same time, preparing their children for educational success.

Jeremiah provides empowerment and life skills training and individual coaching at its home base in Nubian Square. Here, families study, learn, play, socialize, and cook in a supportive environment. Jeremiah assists moms with finding safe and affordable housing and quality early childhood education if needed.

JP Boston’s education partners include Endicott College and Southern New Hampshire University, known for their small classes, supportive faculty and administration with solid track records for supporting students who are parenting. Their partners are committed to the academic and employment success of our young mothers.

Program Benefits

• Academic enrollment and financial aid
• Semester-long empowerment course
• Connect with mothers – navigate school and parenting together
• Individualized coaching and support
• Community resources secure safe, affordable housing, legal counsel and academic tutors
• Technology and internet access to support program and college work completion

• Single mothers who have children ages 0 to 8 years
• Active commitment to pursuing a college degree or diploma
• Currently residing in commutable distance from a campus
• Optimistic and determined about having a prosperous life

Jericho Circle

Jericho Circle schedules monthly reentry circles at the 2nd Church in Dorchester on Saturday evenings.  Usually these occur on the 2nd Saturday of each month. They also hold bi-weekly virtual reentry circles to support returning citizens.

Jericho Circle has 20 years of history running emotional circles inside the walls of prisons in New England. Our reentry circles, mentoring and other support initiatives are designed to help returning citizens begin or continue their healing journey on the other side of the wall.

Virtual Circles via Zoom available.

Men over 18 years old.

John F. Kennedy Family Services Center

The Kennedy Center develops and operates high quality programs that serve a wide range of ages and needs to residents of Charlestown and the greater Boston community. Services provided:

Eldercare Services:

• Daily social activities
• Monthly educational speakers
• Monthly health screenings and health education presentations
• Case management services
• Translation & interpretation services in Spanish, English, and Chinese
• Pickup and delivery of prescriptions medications for isolated, frail, and home bound elders
• Medical Escorts for medical appointments
• Trips to local shopping malls and recreational events are provided
• Cooking and healthy eating classes
• Heating fuel assistance application processing
• Emergency support service referrals
• Health screening/services and health services referrals
• Weekly senior exercise programs
• Access to a computer lab and computer training

Education Services:

• Preschool Programs
• Toddler Childcare/Early Head Start
• After-school Program
• Parent Handbooks

Community Services:

• Information and referrals to education and job training programs
• Positive parenting classes and food shopping on a budget
• Healthy cooking classes and food shopping on a budget
• Classes in budget preparation and financial literacy training
• Assistance in accessing all forms of local, State, Federal, and corporate low-income support services such as fuel assistance, food stamps (SNAP), housing vouchers, WIC, Summer Works jobs, and low cost internet and computers, etc.
• Emergency support services for those that are: in need of food, clothing, shelter, transportation services to critical appointments; information about and/or referral to organizations that provide services for individuals/families dealing with issues of domestic violence, substance abuse/addiction, and/or mental health concerns.
• Information and referrals for basic health screening services for children and adults.
• Annual Holiday Gift Drive that provides seasonal gifts for over 500 children from low income families (For Charlestown families only)
• Annual Community Pot Luck Luncheon.

Just-A-Start Corporation

Provides affordable housing, education, training, community engagement, and supportive services, including:

Cambridge Biomedical Careers Program: This free 9-month training program (September–May) prepares participants for entry-level jobs in the biotechnology, life sciences, and medical research industries, and supplies local employers with work-ready, diverse employees. The laboratory training is done in partnership with Bunker Hill Community College. In the program, students also receive job readiness training such as preparing a resume, interviewing, and job search, and are introduced to industry professionals through career talks and employer site visits. After graduation, students receive follow up services for up to one year, until they are placed in relevant employment.

There is no tuition fee. Applications are accepted April through August. Eligibility requirements include: a GED or HS diploma, Massachusetts residency (primarily Cambridge, Boston, and MetroNorth), income eligibility, age 18+, and good reading and math skills.

Contact: 617-918-7520

Information Technology Careers Program
The JAS IT Career Program is a FREE educational and career skills training program that prepares individuals for Computer User Support Specialist positions in any business environment. The program is ideal for people who are looking for a new career or are entering the job market for the first time.
Through this training module students are able to obtain stackable industry recognized credentials and certificates (i.e. CompTIA, CompTIA A+, etc.)

Contact:  617-918-7520

YouthBuild/Just-A-Start: JAS YouthBuild is a comprehensive youth development program for 16 to 24 year-old out of school youth that provides education leading to grade level increases and credential attainment (high school diploma or HiSET – formerly GED); career exploration and employment skills building (with a construction/facilities maintenance and/or healthcare focus); and leadership and life skills training. Through their housing community service work experience, youth gain occupational skills leading to HBI PACT and OSHA certificates (industry recognized credentials), in addition to applied academic skills and leadership development. JAS YouthBuild also provides comprehensive guidance, counseling, case management, and support services. Youth who complete the program transition to employment, training, and/or college and receive intensive follow-up support for at least one year, with additional support beyond.

Contact:  youthbuild@justastart.org or 617-918-7506

Home Improvement Programs: Provides assistance in managing home improvement projects and helps homeowners, condominium associations, and landlords secure financing for housing improvements. JAS’s experienced rehab specialists guide clients through the entire process, from application to completion.

Contact: 617-918-7514

Homeowner Services:
JAS offers an array of services to meet the ongoing needs of low and moderate income homeowners in Cambridge. These services include: technical assistance with property maintenance and repair; advisory services for condominium association finances, management, and compliance; education and training courses; and leadership development for condominium associations.

Contact: 617-918-7514

Real Estate Development Projects:
As part of its core mission, Just-A-Start (JAS) develops and owns affordable apartments that allow low and moderate income residents to live in Cambridge at rents that are within their means. JAS currently owns nearly 600 units and has partnered with Maloney Properties and Wingate to provide the portfolio with professional management. If you are interested in affordable rentals in Cambridge, please contact Maloney Properties and Wingate for more information.

Mediation/Conflict Resolution:
To avoid evictions and/or homelessness, Just-A-Start (JAS) professionals mediate and help resolve disputes between tenants, landlords, homeowners, and others by creating a safe, neutral forum in which meaningful dialogue can occur. Mediation allows parties to understand each other’s perspectives, explore options, and come up with a resolution that everyone feels comfortable moving forward with. Through these efforts, JAS has helped thousands of individuals reach compromise and address conflicts before they spiral out of control, often preventing unnecessary eviction. For qualifying cases, JAS professionals also provide mediation to resolve consumer disputes referred through district courts or the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office.

Contact:  617-918-7518

YouthBuild
1175 Cambridge St. Cambridge
617-242-1460

Bring your Social Security card, birth certificate and proof of address.

Justice Resource Institute (JRI)

JRI works in partnership with individuals, families, communities and government to pursue the social justice inherent in opening doors to opportunity and independence.

JRI offers a wide array of services including:

• Behavioral Health Clinics & Trauma Services 
• Community Services 
• Developing Abilities 
• Educational & Residential Services
• Foster Care & Childhood Services
• Health & Housing
• Intensive Services & Juvenile Justice 

La Alianza Hispana

La Alianza Hispana is a community-based organization providing culturally and linguistically appropriate health and education programs to the Latino Community of Greater Boston.

Programs

• Mothers and Children in Process
• Adult Day Health Care
• Senior Programs

COVID-19 Update

M - F: 9am - 5pm

None

Lamour Clinic Health Institute

Lamour Clinic Health Institute is a multi-services community-based agency that is committed to advocating and providing community-based, culturally competent, and comprehensive programming services. Its mission is to provide behavioral health, therapeutic and community-based services that aid individuals, children, and families to achieve optimal daily functioning.

Programs

• For everyone
  • Traditional Outpatient Program (OP)
• For Geriatrics (65+)
  • Community Support Program (CSP)
  • Driver Alcohol Education (DAE)
  • Recovery Coach (RC)
  • Recovery Support Navigator (RSN)
• For Adults (22-64)
  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with private insurance coverage
  • Community Support Program (CSP)
  • Driver Alcohol Education (DAE)
  • Second Offender Aftercare (SOA) under DAE
  • Recovery Support Groups (RSG)
  • Recovery Coach (RC)
  • Recovery Support Navigator (RSN)
  • Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Coaching
• For Adolescents (13-21)
  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with private insurance coverage
  • In-Home Behavioral (IHB)
  • In-Home Therapy (IHT)
  • Recovery Coach (RC)
  • Recovery Support Navigator (RSN)
  • Driver Alcohol Education (DAE)
  • Second Offender Aftercare (SOA)
  • Recovery Support Groups (RSG)
  • Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Coaching
  • Therapeutic Mentoring (TM)
  • Youth Development Learning Center (Youth DELC)
• For Children (3-12)
  • In-Home Behavioral (IHB)
  • In-Home Therapy (IHT)
  • Therapeutic Mentoring (TM)
  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with private insurance coverage
  • Youth Development Learning Center (Youth DELC

M-Th: 8:30am-7:30pm
F: 8:15am-5pm
Sat: 9am-4pm

Medford, MA.
Dorchester, MA.

Lawyers Clearinghouse

The Lawyers Clearinghouse serves both Massachusetts nonprofits and homeless individuals. They match nonprofits with pro bono lawyers, host legal workshops for nonprofits, and operate a bi-monthly legal clinic for the homeless.

• Massachusetts Legal Clinic for the Homeless
  • Due to public health and safety concerns surrounding the current coronavirus outbreak, the Legal Clinic is now operating remotely. They still want to serve clients in need of civil legal assistance. Please contact Clinic Manager Sean Thekkeparayil to discuss your civil legal matters: 617-544-3434 ext. 110 or email

Clinics are operated at the following locations:

Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Program (BHCHP)
Address: 780 Albany St. Boston, Ma. 02118
Contact: Nicole (857) 654-1081

Bridge Over Troubled Waters
Address: 47 West St. Boston, MA. 02111
Contact: Lindsay (617) 423-9575 ex. 207

Cardinal Medeiros Center
Address: 1960 Washington St. Boston, MA. 02118
Contact: Muriel (617) 619-6962

Metro Housing Boston
Address: 1411 Tremont St. Boston, MA. 02120
Contact: Felisha (617) 425-6650

Pine Street Inn
Address: 444 Harrison Ave. Boston, MA. 02118
Men’s contact: Ken (617) 892-9230
Women’s contact: Julie (617) 892-9318

Southampton Shelter
Address: 112 Southampton St. Boston, MA. 02118
Contact: Pedro (617) 534-6136

St. Francis House
Address: 39 Boylston St. Boston, MA. 02116
Contact: Fabiana (617) 457-1034

Women’s Lunch Place
Address: 67 Newbury St. Boston, MA. 02116
Contact: Minerva (617) 267-8104

Woods Mullen Shelter
Address: 794 Massachusetts Ave. Boston, MA. 02118
Contact: Diniz (617) 534-7157

In order to qualify, clients must be homeless, using shelter services, or otherwise income eligible for free legal services.

Learn2Work: Workforce Development and Economic Self-Sufficiency

Learn2Work is run by House of Hope, Inc. – Lowell

Understanding the need to empower homeless parents with essential employment skills, a positive employment experience, and an increased sense of self-worth to serve as the foundation for long-term employment stability, we developed the Learn2Work Program, which provides a supportive work environment that ignites the desire within each intern to successfully support their family and make a difference in their community.

The Learn2Work Program also provides “soft-skills training” (such as communication and interpersonal skills) and job-placement support to every intern. Interns gain job-skills in a supportive work environment (either retail or culinary) that empowers them to implement personal career plans and work through employment issues that are the basis for any employment success. The goal of the Learn2Work Program is to provide a supportive work environment that ignites the desire within each intern to successfully support their family and make a difference in their community.

Interns discover that work is valuable, work allows them to give back to society, and it builds their self-esteem. We have learned that our internships can literally transform our intern’s relationship to work.

The families who are living in our shelters will be the source of the 25-35 interns per year who will gain real world experience as they operate our retail store and prepare and serve our meals as they Learn2Work!

Learn2Work includes two initiatives: the Hope Chest Retail Program and a Culinary Skills Program.

Legal Services Center CORI Sealing Initiative

Through LSC’s CORI workshops, clients can receive free assistance in sealing their criminal records. As of March 2020, in-person workshops are on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. Please see the self-help videos for instructions on requesting and sealing your CORI virtually.

How to participate:

• Call the Safety Net Project intake line at 617-390-2524 or email safetynetproject@law.harvard.edu. After speaking with you, they can provide the forms you will need in order to go through the record-sealing process.

Anyone in need of CORI sealing assistance is welcome to participate if:

• It has been 3 years since the last misdemeanor conviction OR
• 7 years since the last felony conviction

Literacy Volunteers of Massachusetts – Boston

Free, confidential and individualized tutoring for 2 hours per week in basic literacy and ESOL scheduled for mutually convenient times at public locations convenient to the student and tutor.

Depending on health restrictions in place at any given time due to COVID-19, tutor/students may be restricted to remote tutoring only.

Office hours are M - F: 9am - 5pm. Please call for an appointment. Tutoring is flexibly scheduled between the volunteer tutor and the adult student for mutually convenient times.

Must be over 16 and not currently enrolled in a public school. Primary service population is adults who read below the 6th grade level. No walk-ins; call for appointment.

Loaves and Fishes Meal Program

This is a food service and relief project led by the Korean Church of Cambridge. Food preparation is made through the cooperation of nonprofit organizations including Greater Boston Foodbank, donations from nearby stores, and the church’s charitable donation budget. For the past 35 years, the Loaves and Fishes wheat program has consistently served 80 to 160 people every Saturday afternoon, serving as a place of service where you can enjoy warm food with dignity rather than just filling your stomach. You can find up-to-date information on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Loaves-and-Fishes-Meal-Program-136515539846968/.  

Louis D. Brown Peace Institute

Louis D. Brown Peace Institute provides services that are consistent and compassionate for families of murdered loved ones and families of incarcerated loved ones to prevent cycles of retaliatory violence.

Services include:

• Survivors Outreach Services
• Community Re-Entry Preparation Services
• Wholistic Healing Workshops
• Stars & Stripes Girls Group
• Healing & Recovery Support Group
• We’re Still Here Writing Workshops
• Mindfulness 

Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House

The Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House provides integrated services to individuals and families to empower them to overcome challenges, reach their potential and achieve their goals.

They fulfill this mission by providing the following programming:

• Youth Services
  • Educational Programs
  • After-School Program
  • Full Day Program
  • For more information, Contact Megan Ryan: mryan@margaretfullerhouse.org
• Food Services
  • Emergency Food Pantry
  • Thanksgiving Turkey Drive
  • For more information, Contact Grace McDonald: gmcdonald@margaretfullerhouse.org
• Community Advancement (case management services)
  • Financial Assistance
  • For more information, Contact Guerlancia “Gigi” Laurent or Jamie Rodrigues: glaurent@margaretfullerhouse.org jrodrigues@margaretfullerhouse.org

Depends on program, check website.

Massachusetts Access to Recovery (ATR)

Access to Recovery (ATR) is a government-funded program in Massachusetts that gives adults in early recovery from substance use disorders (SUDs) wider access to a full range of community services that can help them be successful in their recovery. ATR operates in five regions: Boston, Springfield/Holyoke, Worcester, Lowell and New Bedford. ATR provides services to help participants on the road to recovery. The 6-month program supports recovery with five types of services:

1) Individualized Recovery Coaching

2) Basic needs purchases (e.g. transportation passes, clothing, hygiene products, government ID cards/driver’s license, cell phones, gym membership, children’s items, etc.)

3) Career Building Services to help participants explore careers, become more employable, and to find a job. ATR participants are able to enroll in job readiness programs and occupational training programs focused on CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information)-friendly jobs. Participants can receive Work-Study Benefits (WSBs) of $10 per hour for every session hour they attend during a training program.

4) Sober Home Service provides eligible ATR participants with up to 5 months of rental assistance in a MASH Certified Sober Home, as well as individualized support through a Recovery Coach to help the individual adjust to this transitional living environment and work towards self-sufficiency. Those who qualify for Sober Home services must be current ATR participants.

5) Care Coordination through an ATR Coordinator to tie all the pieces together.

Help Line: This is a non-monitored phone line and may take up to 3 business days for response

In Greater Springfield, contact:
IHR (Institute for Health & Recovery)
155 Maple Street, Suite 304
Springfield, MA 01105
Fax: (413) 301-6173
ATR Coordinator: Jackie Segarra (617) 845-6403

For the Downtown Boston Office, contact:
IHR (Institute for Health & Recovery)
105 Chauncy Street, Suite #602
Boston, MA 02111
Fax: (617) 661-7277
ATR Coordinator: Patricial Exilus-Carrenard (617) 645-7668

For the South Boston Office, contact:
Gavin Foundation
70 Devine Way
South Boston, MA 02127
Fax: (857) 496-0266
ATR Coordinator: Stephen Steele (857) 496-7339

In New Bedford, contact:
Gavin Foundation
13 North 6th Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
Fax: (774) 328-9075
ATR Coordinator: Jenny Baker (508) 742-6640

In Lowell, contact:
IHR (Institute for Health & Recovery)
97 Central Street, Unit 207
Lowell, MA 01852
ATR Coordinator: Ashley Richards (781) 801-8135

In Worcester, contact:
Gavin Foundation
101 Pleasant Street, Suite #101
Worcester, MA 01609
Fax: (508) 459-9112
ATR Coordinator: Megan McDonough (508) 762-9223

PARTICIPANTS CANNOT REFER THEMSELVES. In order to be referred, individuals must already be working with a treatment provider who is authorized to make ATR referrals. ATR only accepts referrals from authorized referral portals. Check with your provider to see if they’re authorized to make ATR referrals, or contact the BSAS Substance Use Helpline (800-327-5050) to discuss your options.

Massachusetts Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers (MATSA)

This is a professional association of clinicians and other professionals in the field of sex offender evaluation and treatment. The MATSA Resource Directory, a list of treatment providers, is available here.

Massachusetts Ave. Baptist Church: Project MANNA

Once per month outreach to the community also includes the Epic Program, a food pantry that feeds an average of 100 families per month. Notifications for upcoming food pantries and Project Manna related events can be found on this page.

Mondays only 1:30pm - 2:30pm (Due to COVID-19 Precautions Temporary hours of Operation are in Place. Meals are served on a takeout basis only).

Massachusetts Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service

Callers are given a referral to a member of the Massachusetts Bar Association (MBA), if appropriate, or are referred to an MBA public service program, a state or local agency, or a legal services agency for possible free representation. All calls are screened for income. Referrals to MBA attorneys are based on legal need (on both criminal and civil issues), geographic convenience, and the caller’s financial situation.

MBA/LRS Automatic Referrals now available at www.MassLawHelp.com. Individuals looking for a lawyer will be able to get the name of a qualified MBA attorney instantly — 24 hours a day, seven days a week — after filling out a brief online form. The website’s improved capability will benefit legal consumers and LRS panel members by making connections even more accessible. Users will be sent an email listing the name, address, telephone number and email address of the attorney. The attorney will also receive an email containing the user’s contact information, including telephone number and email address.
Anyone needing a reduced fee referral will be asked to contact the LRS via telephone to determine their eligibility. The LRS will also continue to provide referrals by phone during normal business hours at (617) 654-0400 or toll-free (866) MASS-LRS/(866) 627-7577.

Dial-a-Lawyer: On the first Wednesday of every month, between 5:30pm – 7:30pm, MBA attorneys will answer legal questions (on any area of the law both criminal and civil) on the telephone; there is no fee. The telephone number for this service is 617-338-0610, 877-686-0711 (toll-free).

Currently, the Lawyer Referral Service is open with limited hours of Monday thru Friday 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Massachusetts Behavioral Health Helpline (BHHL)

The Behavioral Health Help Line connects callers to a broad range of treatment services for mental health and addiction support throughout the Commonwealth. The BHHL is designed to provide direction, promote prevention, treatment and access to resources in the community.

Callers can call or text 833-773-2445 and have a conversation with a live, clinically supervised specialist who can assess clinical needs and provide a warm hand off to the right place in real time. They can also use the chat feature on the website, masshelpline.com, to talk with a representative. Call takers will offer support with immediate crisis intervention, urgent, and routine needs. The Help Line is available 24/7/365 in 200+ languages and is free for every resident. The BHHL is intended for everyone, regardless of age, cultural, sexual, or socio-economic status.

Massachusetts Child Abuse Emergency Line

The Massachusetts Child Abuse Emergency Line operated by Judge Baker Children’s Center functions as the after-hours service for the MA Department of Children and Families (DCF). DCF is the state agency charged with the responsibility of protecting children from child abuse and neglect. A 50+ member staff is trained to assess the urgency of each call, elicit critical information, and provide a sympathetic ear. In situations where children are at imminent risk, an emergency response is initiated, with DCF field staff launching the investigations. Services are provided by phone only. The Emergency Line is NOT able to provide services on its website or by email.

Weekdays: Monday –Thursday 5:00 pm – 9:00 am (of the next morning)
Weekends: Friday 5:00 pm – Monday 9:00 am
Holidays: Friday 5:00 pm – Tuesday 9:00 am for Monday holidays; 5:00 pm of the day preceding a weekday holiday – 9:00 am of the weekday after the holiday

Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) is the independent state agency that enforces the anti-discrimination laws of the Commonwealth through training, mediation, investigation, prosecution and adjudication. The people of Massachusetts, its workers, and visitors may file a Complaint if they believe they were treated differently or unfairly in Massachusetts based on their identity as a member of a protected class. Complaints filed at the MCAD are investigated by an MCAD staff member to determine if there are sufficient facts to find that the treatment alleged constitutes unlawful discrimination. The MCAD conducts its investigation as a neutral entity. If it is more probable than not that there was an unlawful practice, the Complaint may move forward to prosecution and adjudication.

The MCAD has three offices, Boston, Springfield, and Worcester, where one can meet with an intake specialist for a free consultation and file a Complaint. The MCAD closed its New Bedford office temporarily while searching for a new office location in the region.

The MCAD also offers training and outreach to address and prevent discrimination. The Commission also conducts policy reviews, provide draft model policies online, and issues guidance on Acts that affect the work of the Commission.

M-F, 9-5pm

MCAD Springfield
436 Dwight Street, Room 220
Springfield, MA 01103
Phone: 413-739-2145
Fax: 413-784-1056

MCAD Worcester
484 Main Street, Room 320
Worcester, MA 01608
Phone: 508-453-9630
Fax: 508-755-3861

In all but a few exceptions, the MCAD cannot accept complaints based on incidents over 300 days old. You should review the MCAD Questionnaires

You should bring with you any relevant names, addresses, or telephone numbers, witnesses’ names, and any other paperwork that will help investigate and establish your allegation of unlawful discrimination. You should also be able to give the date the alleged discrimination occurred.

For an employment case: You should have your employer’s name, address, the approximate number of employees, and the name of the parent company, if applicable.

For a housing case: Supply the landlord’s or property manager’s name, the real estate company’s name, or the real estate agent’s name, if appropriate.

For public accommodations: Bring the name of the owner or manager of the establishment.

Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)

The Department of Housing and Community Development, through its community and business partners, provides affordable housing options, financial assistance, and other support to Massachusetts communities.

Visit this link for an extensive list of DHCD programs.

Office hours vary depending on program. DCHD General Office Hours: M - F 8:45am - 5pm

Income restrictions apply.

Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA)

The Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) assists and empowers low-income individuals and families to meet their basic needs, improve their quality of life, and achieve long-term economic self-sufficiency. DTA serves one in eight residents of the Commonwealth with direct economic assistance (cash benefits) and food assistance (SNAP benefits), as well as workforce training opportunities

In addition to food and cash benefits, DTA offers other services to help you meet your basic needs and achieve economic mobility.

Services include:

• Domestic Violence
• Disability Access
• DTA help for seniors
• SNAP help for veterans
• SNAP Nutrition Education
• SNAP Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Pilot 
• Funeral & Burial Assistance
• Appeals and Hearings
• Rights, responsibilities, penalties
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• DTA Pathways to Work (employment & training)
• Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) 
• Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC)
• Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC)

DTA Assistance Line: Mon. - Fri. 8:15am - 4:45pm

You can find locations at https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-transitional-assistance/locations?_page=2#

Massachusetts Law Reform Institute (MLRI)

MLRI works with many organizations at the local, state, and national level on numerous areas of law affecting those with low-incomes. MLRI also coordinates two statewide websites that provide legal information for low-income people and for legal services advocates on a wide variety of civil legal matters.

As a general matter, MLRI does not provide legal representation to individual clients.

Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and Statistics (RVRS)

RVRS administers and issues copies of vital records that occurred in Massachusetts from 1926 to the present. RVRS also provides statistics on births, deaths, fetal deaths, divorces, and marriages. These data are used by local and state public health programs and medical researchers to help understand our population, promote wellness, and ensure health equity within the Commonwealth.

• Order a Birth, Marriage, or Death Certificate 
  • Before making request for a vital record, you will need:
    • The subject’s name
    • Date of the event
    • Place of the event
    • Proof of your identification (ID)
      • Acceptable forms of ID: preferably a driver’s license (even if expired) or Government-issued photo ID)
    • You may also be required to provide documentation showing how your relation to the subject of the record if you’re a legal guardian or representative
  • How to order
    • Online: request an online order from VitalChek
    • By phone: call VitalChek at 617-740-2606
    • By mail: Send your completed vital records mail order form and a check or money order payable to Commonwealth of Massachusetts to:
      • Registry of Vital Records and Statistics, 150 Mt. Vernon St. 1st Floor, Dorchester MA 02125
    • In person: you can order certified records at the Registry counter Monday – Friday 8:45am – 4:45pm
      • Cash is not accepted
  • Most orders are filled within 2-3 weeks (expedited options are available)

M - F: 8:45am - 4:45pm (RVRS Office)

Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC)

The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) helps individuals with disabilities to live and work independently. MRC is responsible for Vocational Rehabilitation, Community Living, and Disability Determination for federal benefit programs.

M - F: 8:45am - 5pm

Programs are for persons with disabilities. Some services may have other eligibility requirements. Must be a Massachusetts resident and eligible to work in the U.S.

Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (MSPCC)

MSPCC is a private, non-profit society dedicated to leadership in protecting and promoting the rights and well-being of children and families.

Services include:

• Pregnancy and Parenting Support
• Child & Family Counseling
• Foster Care & Adoption
• Advocacy 

Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline

The Helpline is the only statewide, public resource for finding substance use treatment, recovery, and problem gambling services. Helpline services are free and confidential. Their caring, trained Specialists will help you understand the treatment system and your options.

24/7

MassEdCO Education and Career Planning Center

With a fundamental belief in the importance of building equity, diversity and inclusion in postsecondary education for underrepresented students, they provide personalized guidance and encouragement to support Massachusetts high school students, parents, and adults pursuing education beyond high school.

While the services at the Center differ depending on individual needs, their advisor always help students:

• Identify career options
• Build and revise college and scholarship essays
• Submit applications for college and career training programs
• Apply for financial aid (FAFSA or CSS Profile)
  • FAFSA Checklist 
• Search for scholarships
• Renew financial aid packages
• Select a college that is a good match based on affordability and student fit

MassEdCO has advised many returning citizens in the past and is familiar with the kinds of assistance returning citizens may require in accessing higher education. MassEdCO provides help with completing college and financial aid applications and with career planning.

Interested in meeting with an advisor? Make an appointment by calling 617-536-0200 or complete their online intake form. 

www.massedco.org/locations

MassHire Boston Career Center

MassHire Boston Career Center aims to provide state-of-the-art services that successfully connect business and job seekers of Greater Boston.

Programs:

• Hot Jobs
  • See who is hiring now
• Job Seeker Resources
  • Access resources to help you find the right job
• Events & Workshops
  • Access workshops and events
• Indeed Jobs

Office: Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Program hours vary

MassHire Metro North (BRIDGES Returning Citizens Center)

• Career coaching and strategies for finding jobs
• Case management and referral to support services
• Access to training opportunities
• Resume and cover letter writing
• Referrals to employers

Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

We can meet customers by appointment at MassHire Chelsea and MassHire Woburn

Primarily for residents of Boston and the Metro North region: Arlington, Belmont, Burlington, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Malden, Medford, Melrose, North Reading, Reading, Revere, Somerville, Stoneham, Wakefield, Watertown, Wilmington, Winchester, Winthrop, and Woburn

McGrath House

McGrath House is a 33-bed Community-based Residential Reentry Program for female returning citizens. Residents receive gender-specific evidence-based case management and in-house clinical services that emphasize successful reentry.

Women referred by county sheriff’s departments, the Massachusetts Department of Correction, the Massachusetts Parole Board, or the Massachusetts Probation Service. These referrers must prepare a referral packet which will be reviewed based on availability and allocation.

Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee

Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee provides information and advice to individuals involved with the Massachusetts mental health system through the MHLAC Intake Line. If you need help or advice, you must call the MHLAC Intake Line and leave a voicemail message.

Things to know beforehand:

• They do not do intake interviews on a walk-in basis
• To request an intake by email, click here
• MHLAC Intake Line is open 24 hours/7 days a week
• They can only assist with problems or issues that involve Massachusetts
• They cannot assist anonymous callers

Priority Areas Covered

• Mental Health Services
• Education
• Employment/Insurance
• Family Law
• Jail and Bridgewater State Hospital
• Medical Treatment Discrimination
• Mental Health Facilities & Emergency Rooms
• Residential

M - F: 9am - 5pm

No criminal representation

Mothers for Justice and Equality

The mission of MJE is to end neighborhood violence by empowering mothers and youth to challenge the normalization of violence and become effective catalysts for change in their homes, schools, and communities.

Programs

• You Matter Leadership Program
  • The You Matter program runs over a period of 8 weeks to help mothers and women alike achieve their personal and professional goals
  • For more information please contact them at Info@mothersforjusticeandequality.org or call them at 617-516-8086
• Workforce Readiness Initiative
  • MJE’s Workforce Readiness Initiative is a trauma-informed program to help women from all social and economic backgrounds.

Multicultural AIDS Coalition

The Multicultural AIDS Coalition mission is to mobilize communities of color to end the HIV epidemic. Multicultural AIDS Coalition provides integrated HIV/STI testing – includes one-on-one counseling, screening for HIV, hepatitis C, syphilis, Chlamydia, and gonorrhea. They also provide various groups both educational and support groups. Follow-up support services and navigation to treatment is provided. MAC follows all COVID-19 protocols for clients and staff.

Specific Programs Include:

CONNECTED Boston – Comprehensive prevention, screening, and care services for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. A Drop-In Center provides a variety of HIV and other health services as well as a safe space for the LGBT persons of color.

Women Connecting Affecting Change – A women led program that addresses needs of Black, Latina, and other women at high risk for infection. Services are provided at a Drop-In Center on Blue Hill Avenue in Dorchester. HIV/STI screening, one-on-one counseling, group counseling, peer-support is provided, and risk reduction services including access to syringe services are provided.

Casa Iris – A peer support, Drop-In Center for Latinos/Latinas offers support groups for Latinx individuals living with HIV, referrals to other health and social services, and individual peer support designed to help clients manage their health and thrive.

AFIA- Africans for Improved Access provides HIV/STI prevention, education, and support services to the African immigrant and refugee community in Massachusetts. They also facilitate cultural competency training for providers who serve African immigrants and refugees. AFIA offers group-level and individual-level services tailored for individuals from the Sub-Saharan African community.

M - F: 10am - 5pm

Multicultural AIDS Coalition- Dorchester Location
409 Blue Hill Ave
Dorchester, MA 02121

Women Connecting Affecting Change (WCAC)
157A Washington Street
Dorchester, MA 02121

National Domestic Violence Hotline

24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, the National Domestic Violence Hotline provides essential tools and support to help survivors of domestic violence so they can live their lives free of abuse (available via phone, text, and live chat on the website)

Contacts to The Hotline can expect highly-trained, expert advocates to offer free, confidential, and compassionate support, crisis intervention information, education, and referral services in over 200 languages.

Advocates attend extensive training sessions to prepare for crisis intervention support, safety planning, education, advocacy, and referrals for survivors; they also undergo training to support friends, family members, and others concerned about loved ones experiencing situations of abuse.

Hotline and chat are 24/7.

National Lawyers Guild: Lawyer Referral Service (Mass. Chapter)

The Massachusetts Chapter of the National Lawyers Guild works to change the structure of our political and economic system. They seek to unite the legal community with organizers and activists in the service of the people, to the end that human rights shall be regarded as more sacred than property interests.

• Street Law Clinics 
  • The Street Law Clinic Project (SLC) conducts clinics to educate people about their legal rights and methods to fight for justice. Under the supervision of NLG-Mass Chapter attorneys, law students conduct these clinics in community organizations, schools, shelters, and places of worship.
  • If you are interested in participating, fill out this form.
• Mass Defense Committee
  • The Mass Defense Committee (MDC) is a network of lawyers, legal workers, and law students providing legal support to political activists, protesters, and their movements for economic, social, and racial justice.
• Litigation Committee
  • The Litigation Committee is comprised of attorneys, legal workers, and law students. Striving to protect people from policies and practices that perpetuate social, racial, and economic injustice, they bring civil lawsuits against large institutions such as government agencies, law enforcement, banks, financial institutions, and corporations that cause harm.

None

National Sexual Assault Hotline

This hotline connects callers to the nearest available services for survivors of sexual assault. Instant message is possible by clicking the “chat” button on the website.

The National Sexual Assault Hotline is a safe, confidential service. When you call the hotline, only the first six numbers of the phone number are used to route the call, and your complete phone number is never stored in their system. Most states do have laws that require local staff to contact authorities in certain situations, like if there is a child or vulnerable adult who is in danger.

Hotline and online chat available 24/7

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. The Lifeline is comprised of a national network of over 180 local crisis centers, combining custom local care and resources with national standards and best practices. Instant messaging services are available by clicking “chat” on the website.

Launching on July 16, 2022, 988 will become the national three-digit dialing code for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Moving to 988 does not mean the current 800 number (1-800-273-8255) for Lifeline goes away. Dialing either number will route callers to the same services, no matter which number they use.

24/7

New Beginnings Re-Entry Services (NBRS)

 New Beginnings Reentry Services, Inc. works in partnership with community agencies to empower and provide supportive services to formerly incarcerated women to successfully rejoin their communities. NBRS addresses the critical issues of education, physical and mental health, as well as personal development through programs and services.

New England Center and Home for Veterans

The mission of the New England Center and Home for Veterans (NECHV) is to equip Veterans who are facing or at-risk of homelessness with the tools for economic sufficiency and to provide them a path to achieve successful and dignified independent living.

A service and care provider for former military service men and women, the NECHV offers a broad array of programs and services that enable success, reintegration, meaningful employment, and independent living.

Services:

• Transitional Housing
  • The following transitional housing services are available: Safe Haven, Grant and Per Diem (GPD) Low Demand Program, WORTH (Working on Recovery from Triage to Housing), GPD Clinical Treatment, and Veteran 360
  • To refer a Veteran to any of these programs, please complete this Provider Referral Form
• Permanent and Supportive Housing 
  • The following housing services are available: Permanent Onsite Residences, Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), Community-Based Case Management, Veterans Welcome Home, and Homefront
•  Support
  • Human services programs: Supportive Services for Veteran Families, Veteran Recovery, Female Veterans Support Program, and Senior Veteran Wellness Program
  • Medical care: Boston Health Care for the Homeless
• Employment and Training
  • The NECHV provides programs in career, vocational and entrepreneurship education and training to obtain and retain employment in today’s competitive market. The Center also offers a robust program of life skills training courses including: personal financial planning, individualized budget and credit review, employment readiness, resume creation, money management and computer fundamentals.
  • For more information, please contact Hector Fuentes, Employment Specialist at 617-371-1811.

Services open 24/7, Office hours are M – F: 9am – 5pm

Any person who has served in the U.S Military (active, Guard, Reserve), regardless of era, length or character of service, is a Veteran, and is eligible for services and support from the NECHV.

New England Culinary Arts Training

Culinary arts job training 12-week program, which includes technical training along with personal coaching and career readiness. Job placement assistance at the completion of the program. To learn more and to begin the application process, please attend one of the information sessions, held every Tuesday at 9:30am in person.

M-F: 9am-3pm

NECAT’s program is free of tuition cost to students and is designed for individuals who are:

– Unemployed or underemployed (earning a low income) with limited access to training opportunities
– Dedicated to working hard and securing a permanent job after the program
– Interested in a career in the hospitality or food services industries
– Able to commit to the 12-week program, Monday-Friday, 9 am – 4 pm
– At least 18 years old
– Legally able to work in the state of Massachusetts
– Able to show proof of a high school diploma or GED / HiSet
– Committed to staying in touch with NECAT for at least two years after the program

New England Forensic Associates

NEFA is a nationally recognized center for the evaluation and treatment of problematic sexual behavior.

NEFA provides:

• Individual and group therapy
• Outpatient Therapy
• Specialized Treatment Programs
• Psychological Evaluation
• Psychometric Assessment
• Employment and Human Resources Screening
• Professional Consultation
• Expert Witness Testimony

Office Hours: M – Th 9am – 5pm

Client needs to be accepted to treatment by a clinician

New England Region of Narcotics Anonymous

NA is a nonprofit fellowship or society of men and women for whom drugs had become a major problem. They are recovering addicts who meet regularly to help each other stay clean. NA is a program of total abstinence from all drugs. The only requirement for membership is the desire to stop using.

This website contains information for addicts and professionals about Narcotics Anonymous in the New England Region of NA. The New England Region currently encompasses most of Massachusetts, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and Rhode Island.

You can call their helpline 1-866-NA-HELP-U (I-866-624-3578) or attend a meeting (in-person and virtual).

Hotline is 24/7; Meetings as listed on website

New Horizons Medical

They offer low-cost mental health, substance use, and psychiatry treatment, and accept most health plans in Massachusetts which often makes treatment almost free to patients with qualified insurance.

At New Horizons Medical, we believe in the power of healing and the importance of providing compassionate care to those in need. We are dedicated to improving the lives of our patients by offering evidence-based treatment and utilizing the latest medical advancements. We are committed to ethical and responsible conduct in all of our actions, and strive to be a trusted leader in the medical community. We are dedicated to making a difference in the world and will always put the needs of our patients first.

• Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)* with Buprenorphine and Naltrexone
  • Buprenorphine Treatment for Opioid Use Disorders
    • Suboxone, Subutex, Zubsolv, and Sublocade Injections
  • Naltrexone Treatment for Alcohol and Opioid Use Disorders
    • Naltrexone Tablets, Vivitrol Injections
  • Psychiatry and Medication Management
  • Mental Health Counseling
  • Individual, Group, Couples, and  Family Formats

Monday - Friday: 9am -5pm
Saturday: 9am - 2pm

Brookline:

358 Harvard Street,

Brookline, MA 02446

Tel:  617-202-9222

Fax: 617-879-0933

Framingham:

214 Howard St,

Framingham, MA 01702

Tel:  508-872-0700

Fax: 508-872-0773

Lynn:

222 Blossom St, EXT,

Lynn, MA 01901

Tel:  781-584-4645

Fax: 781-842-1379

Haverhill:

62 Brown St,

Unit 505,

Haverhill, MA 01830

Tel:  978-361-9993

Fax: 978-361-9994

Qunicy:

500 Congress St,

Unit 2G,

Quincy, MA 02169

Tel:  617-481-6949

Fax: 617-481-6254

18+

Nicholas and Mattie Center for the Homeless

Assistance with: Food, Clothing, Housing, Referral Services, Transportation to and from doctor appointments, In home care for the elderly and Veterans, Pampers and Housing Supplies for those moving in a new apartment.

Mon-Fri: 8:30am - 6pm

Clients must fill out an application for their services. Verification of homelessness or need will be requested, verification of identity, proof of income and proof of residency.

North End/West End Neighborhood Service Center (NSC)

Services

• Utility Bill Advocacy
• Food Stamps/SNAP
• SummerWorks
• Food Pantries
• Fuel Assistance
• Weatherization 

In addition, Seniors enjoy a number of programs including a drop-in senior center, health, exercise, and wellness classes, social activities, discounted taxi vouchers, and a supermarket shuttle.

They provide hot meals on Mondays and Fridays, as well as snacks 3 times a week, primarily for seniors, people who are disabled or homeless.

Additionally, they offer a range of educational presentations; job readiness programs; assistance with your search for affordable housing; assistance with your health insurance application (Medicare Part B); translation and interpretation services in Italian, Mandarin, and Turkish, and notary services.

During the holidays, they can provide holiday meals, gifts, and participation in their Adopt-a-Family program.

Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm

Boston Public Library, West End Branch
151 Cambridge St.
Boston, MA 02114
617-523-8125

Low income residents of Boston for most programs. Bring I.D. and proof of income for your first visit.

Nuestra Comunidad Development Corporation

Nuestra Comunidad is devoted to building the wealth and enhancing the physical, economic, and social well-being of Roxbury and other underserved populations in greater Boston through a community-driven process that promotes self-sufficiency and neighborhood revitalization.

Classes:

• First-time homebuyer classes 
• Credit ready classes

Programs: 

• Foreclosure prevention
• Your financial future
• Resident Services
• Community engagement
• Business and entrepreneurship
• Asset management
• Housing resource services 

On The Rise, Inc.

On The Rise is a day program for women and trans/nonbinary individuals currently experiencing or recovering from homeless. We provide tangible, day-to-day essentials in our Safe Haven, including showers, breakfast and lunch, mail, toiletries, computers, a nap room, and more. Our team of Advocates work closely with people on a wide variety of issues, ranging from employment, substance use, mental health, physical health, moving logistics, applying for housing, legal issues/court, and more. For those with the fewest options, we cultivate long-term relationships that foster safety and belonging. Guided by the strength and initiative of our program participants, we join their journey to wellbeing, as skilled partners and advocates.

Monday, Wednesday - Friday: 8:30am-3:30pm
Tuesday: 12pm-3:30pm

If you have not visited them or used their services before, they ask that you complete a low-threshold intake with one of their Advocates. There is no formal referral process to engage with their program.

On with Living and Learning, Inc. (OWLL)

OWLL is a grassroots collective of BIPOC, White, and Differently Abled Artists who commit their art for racial and social justice. They bring together underrepresented voices from Boston’s urban communities in leadership workshops that culminate in theatre productions celebrating their cultural heritage and social experiences. Their collective works with community partners to ensure a focus on the social justice issues most relevant to the participants and serves as a basis for deep community listening, transformation, and the development of a new narrative for the participant’s and their community’s future

Out For Good, Inc.

• CORI sealing
• CORI checks
• Substance abuse counseling
• Mental health counseling
• Career counseling
• Notary public

M-F 9am-7pm

1773 Dorchester Ave Suite 2c Dorchester, MA. 02124

Parenting Journey

Parenting Journey focuses on partnering with parents to build stronger families by developing their inner strengths, life skills, and networks of resources they need to succeed.

In a Parenting Journey program, a small group of parents and caregivers meet for 2 hours a week for 12 or 14 weeks. The program includes activities, discussions, a family-style meal, and complimentary childcare. During the final session, family and friends are invited to attend a Graduation Ceremony. At this celebration, Parenting Journeys honor the participation, accomplishments, and strengths of each program participant.

Parenting Journey Programs:
–Parenting Journey I
–Parenting Journey for Fathers
-Parenting Journey in Recovery
–Parenting in America
–Parenting Journey II

Program Features:
Nutritious Meal – Start each session with a family-style meal while connecting with others in the group.
Childcare – Onsite childcare is provided during each session.
Group Participation – Each session will include group activities and discussion. Participants can share their experiences, thoughts, and feelings in an environment of safety, trust, and respect.
Supportive Facilitation – In its non-judgmental program model, facilitators are trained professionals who engage fully, as equals. They strive to create an atmosphere that promotes open and honest discussion.

Please note that there are currently no groups scheduled on site at Parenting Journey offices; if you go to our website, you can send an email – or call us – and we will provide you with resources to find a Parenting Journey group near you in the Massachusetts area.

New York Office
225 W. 35th Street, Suite 301
New York, NY 10001
(212) 430-5909

No matter your origins, no matter what your background, you are welcome at Parenting Journey. They work with mothers, fathers, and caregivers from all walks of life, raising children of all ages. Only parents based in MA can participate in our virtual groups.

Parents Helping Parents of Massachusetts

Parents Helping Parents (PHP) prevention philosophy is grounded in a self-help model based on the belief that parents are capable of developing their own solutions when given the space, encouragement, and community resource they need. Thus, it is the parents themselves who decide the direction a conversation will take during a Parent Support Group meeting or Parent Stress Line.

Programs

• In-Person Support Groups
  • Due to the COVID-19 virus all in-person support groups have been suspended
• Virtual Support Groups
  • Parenting Group for Parents working with Department of Children and Family Services I (DCF)
  • Parent Group for Parents working with Department of Children and Family Services II (DCF)
  • Parenting Teenagers Support Group
  • Lunch and Learn Online Parenting Group
  • Online Support Group for Parents with Teens with Special Needs
  • Single Parents Support Group
  • Meetup Monday Parenting Connection
  • Monday Men’s Support Group
  • Informal Social Parenting Group
  • Before attending a group please contact Stephanie: stephanie@parentshelpingparents.org
• 24/7 Parent Stress Line
  • 1-800-632-8188
  • All languages available
• Prison & Jail Programs
• Recovery Programs

Parole Regional Reentry Centers

The Massachusetts Parole Board operates regional reentry centers across the state. These centers help inmates make the transition from prison to the community. Staff help released inmates to:

• Get food assistance
• Get a state I.D. card
• Renew a driver’s license
• Open a bank account
• Find work
• Find counseling

These centers are open to released inmates with no post-release supervision. If you are a released inmate, members of their department may be able to bring you to the reentry center closest to your release address. This program is also available to former inmates at any time after they are released.

Locations:

Regions 1 and 2
60 Clayton Street, 1st Floor, Dorchester, MA 02122
(617) 376-6260

Region 3
100 Willow St., Lynn MA 01902
(978) 750-1900

Region 4
340 Main Street, Suite 380, Worcester 01608
(508) 753-7252

Region 5
436 Dwight Street, Springfield 01103
(413)-784-1210

Region 6
499 Essex Street, 1st Floor, Lawrence 01840
(978) 687-6342

Region 7
231 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Brockton 02301
(508) 587-0987

Region 8
1204 Purchase Street, New Bedford 02740
(508) 999-4820

Region 9
188 Concord Street, 2nd Floor, Framingham 01702
(508) 875-0621

Pathways For Change, Inc.

Provides inclusive and fully accessible services to those whose lives have been impacted by sexual violence along with education geared toward ending sexual violence, across Central Massachusetts.

Rape and Sexual Assault Hotline is open 24/7.

Paulist Center

The Wednesday Night Supper Club 
Free hot meals served every Wednesday at 6pm.

Emergency Food Pantry
Open every non-holiday Tuesday afternoon, 1:30pm-3pm, for those with an immediate, critical need for food. If there are 5 Tuesdays in a month, the food pantry is closed on the 5th Tuesday. The food pantry is located on the first floor, two doors down from the reception area. One visit for one grocery bag a month is the operating guideline.

See above

Photo ID with a Boston-vicinity area address. One visit for one grocery bag a month is the operating guideline.

Pilgrim Church

• Free community lunch every Saturday from 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
• Food Pantry every Wednesday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (or until food boxes run out)
  • Please bring documentation of name and address
  • You must bring your own bags (four bags are needed) or a carriage
  • Numbers for getting food are distributed starting at 7:00 a.m.
• Bible Study: Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m.
• On Saturdays, Pilgrim church distributes food on Boston Common (by Brewer fountain) to those who need a free lunch
  • 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
• Thrift Shop
  • Open Tuesdays-Fridays 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Open Saturdays by chance
  • 617-807-0540
• Flea Market
  • Saturdays in the parking lot 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Pine Street Inn

Pine Street Inn partners with homeless individuals to help them move from the streets and shelter to a home, and assists formerly homeless individuals in retaining housing. They provide street outreach, emergency services, supportive housing, job training and connections to employment.

Programs

• Emergency Services 
  • Street outreach
  • Front Door Triage 
  • Emergency shelter 
• Permanent Housing 
• Workforce Development
  • iCater
  • Housekeeping
• Additional Services
  • Homeless Court
  • Recovery Services

COVID-19 Updates 

Women’s Inn at Pine Street:
363 Albany Street, Boston

Shattuck Shelter:
170 Morton Street, Jamaica Plain

Must be homeless; Ages 25 and older only; Alcohol/drugs/drug paraphernalia/weapons are not permitted on premises. Unregistered sex offenders are prohibited from the premises.

Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts

The mission of Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts is to ensure every person in the state has access to sexual and reproductive health care and education no matter who they are, where they live, or who they love.

Health services:

• Routine Exams including pelvic exams and breast and cervical cancer screenings
• HPV Vaccinations
• Emergency Contraception
• Birth Control options and counseling 
• Contraception by Mail Program
• Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, urinary tract infections, yeast infections and vaginal infections
• HIV rapid testing
• PEP (Post-exposure HIV prophylaxis)
• PrEP (Pre-exposure HIV prophylaxis)
• Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy
• Gynecological services include pap tests and management and treatment of abnormal pap tests, menstruation problems, and management of menopause symptoms
• Pregnancy testing with options counseling and referrals for adoption and parenting resources
• Miscarriage management
• Abortion
• Smoking cessation

Call 800-258-4448, option 2, or click here to schedule an appointment.

Hours vary by location. Visit website for more information.

Central MA Health Center:
470 Pleasant Street
Worcester MA 01609

Western MA Health Center:
3550 Main Street
Springfield MA 01107

Metro West Health Center:
91 Main Street
Marlborough MA 01752

Some appointments require parental consent for minors.

Prison Book Program

Prison Book Program is a nonprofit organization in Quincy, MA that sends packages of free, hand-selected books to incarcerated readers in all 50 states. Requestors write letters to us with the kinds of books they like to read, and volunteers select books from our library and package the books for the mail at our weekly volunteer sessions (typically 4 per week). We specifically welcome the expertise and insight of formerly incarcerated people and returning citizens. Our volunteer sessions are a fun, friendly way to get involved, help others, and put your knowledge about the prison and/or jail system to good use.

Anyone can sign up for a volunteer spot on our website: www.prisonbookprogram.org (click “volunteering”) or at www.bostoncares.org.

We typically hold volunteer sessions four times a week, usually Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. There are fewer sessions during the summer months. Please consult our volunteer schedule online to check that a session is happening.

There are dozens of groups like this one across America. See the website for a list. http://prisonbookprogram.org/resources/other-books-to-prisoners-programs/

None. We welcome all volunteers.

ProCon.org: Voting Rights

Ex-offender voting restrictions in Massachusetts: Individuals incarcerated for a felony conviction are ineligible to vote. Voting rights are automatically restored upon release from prison, and people on parole or probation can vote in Massachusetts. For more information, visit: https://felonvoting.procon.org/

Ex-offenders should re-register to vote. To register, visit link below.

To check on your voting eligibility and/or register to vote*: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ovr/

Project Hope

Project Hope is a multi-service agency at the forefront of efforts in Boston to move families up and out of poverty. They provide low-income women with children access to education, jobs, housing, and emergency services.

Services:

• Housing Services
  • Project Hope partners with several community and city agencies, Boston Public Schools, and healthcare providers to identify and provide housing services to children and families experiencing housing instability.
  • For specific questions, please email Project Hope’s Housing team housing_email@prohope.org or call at 617-442-1880 x242
• Academic Education
  • ESOL 
  • Contact Jalela Howard at 617-442-1880 x254 or email jhoward@prohope.org
  • Complete Interest form here
• Workforce Development
  • Tracks to Employment (Three-week job training program)
  • Administrative Jobs in Healthcare
  • DTA Works – Healthcare Administrative Support Training Program
  • Project Hope Family Child Care 
  • For General Questions— Contact Jalela Howard at 617-442-1880 x245 or jhoward@prohope.org or complete the interest form here
• Family Shelter

Although our building is closed for now, they are here for you. Just call 617-442-1880 or email info@prohope.org.

Click here for COVID-19 resources.

M – F: 9am – 5pm

Project Place

Project Place Re-entry Services and Programs provide a path to success and self-sufficiency for men and women returning to the community after incarceration.  Through a sense of belonging to the Project Place community that maintains high standards of accountability, participants can thrive as they pursue their goal of stabilization through employment.

Employment, Job Training, & Resource Services

Project Place Re-entry works with residents, residential facilities and agencies within Suffolk County and the expansive surrounding communities.  They help all who are re-enter the community and need help in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 

Project Place utilizes programs and curriculum developed specifically for individuals returning from incarceration and/or those who are system impacted.  Courses include Financial Math and Budgeting for Society, Anger Management, Family Reunification and other educational resources.  The Re-entry team provides individualized case management while assessing the needs of each person. Their services included guidance for obtaining identification and documentation, health insurance, assisting with housing, including transitional housing, and employment.

Project Place has a full Career Services Department that works closely with their Re-entry Department for their clients and focuses on each individual client and partnering employers.  Career Services and the Re-entry Departments at Project Place are practiced in overcoming the hurdles of CORI challenges and windows in work history

Community Re-entry for Women (CREW) provides job readiness and life skills training to incarcerated women at the Suffolk County House of Correction. Through linking the participants with case management, career coaching and health care, the program seeks to foster the strength and independence of participants in preparation for positive re-entry into the community. This program is only available to incarcerated females at the SCHOC.  Upon release, the women are welcomed to the Project Place community and continue to work with a case manager for programming and support services.

Stabilization Programing Around Recovery and Resiliency Coaching (SPARRC) is one of several entry points into Project Place and is essential for many people before they begin job training.  The program is for those who desire change but aren’t quite prepared for or ready to commit to the Re-entry curriculum or Work Ready. Covered topics include:

• Recovery and mental health support
• One-on-one case management sessions
• Group counseling and skill development
• Structured guidance for personal and employment goals
• A welcoming and supportive community

Work Ready: WORK READY is a 4-week job-readiness training program focused on the basics of preparing clients for a successful job search. Clients will learn to develop resumes, write cover letters, perform a focused job search, & prepare for the interview process. In addition, clients will attend a weekly computer class. Upon completion of the program, clients will be assigned a career coach/case manager to assist with job search and provide ongoing support & resources. Classes are presently held virtually.

Further Credentialing: Project Place offers a 4-week Customer Service Training with Professional Certification in Customer Service through the National Retail Federation Foundation. They also offer a 4-week practicum focused on daily guided job search with the express goal of employment for clients who complete Customer Service credentialing. ServSafe, an industry-recognized certification in food safety is offered regularly. OSHA training is offered on an occasional basis as well.

Social Enterprises: Project Place operates three businesses. These enterprises provide transitional employment for clients for up to 3 months at starting pay of $13.50/hr. Individuals apply to be hired. Their social enterprises provide an opportunity to fill gaps in work history & gain references while pursuing permanent employment with the support of a case manager. To be considered for hire into one of their enterprises, clients must first complete Work Ready.

• Clean Corners…Bright Hopes: Clean Corners… Bright Hopes is a facilities maintenance service that employs homeless individuals to perform maintenance and landscaping. This business offers transitional employment for three months.
• The Logistics Enterprise Apprenticeship Program (LEAP) is a social enterprise business that provides vending and delivery services throughout Greater Boston, preparing individuals for a career in logistics, transportation, warehousing, etc.
• Working Opportunities for Women (WOW) employs women to perform light manufacturing, order fulfillment, sales and marketing, and other small business operations to support local businesses seeking to expand their operations.

Housing

• Partnerships with various housing providers including Caritas and sober living communities
• Rapid Rehousing: Betty’s Place is a program that can accommodate up to 10 women at one time. Residents are provided with Project Place programming and supports while making the transition from the emergency shelter system to independent living. Betty’s provides each resident with a room of her own in a safe, clean environment and two meals a day. Residents also receive their wraparound support services to address barriers in finding and obtaining employment and housing. Betty’s Rapid Rehousing hopes to transition women to independent living within 3-6 months. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. To refer someone or apply, call 617-482-1126.
• Permanent affordable housing – Gatehouse: The top floors of the Project Place building hold 14 affordable studio-apartments for single occupants. Each furnished unit contains a kitchenette and private bathroom with all amenities. Residents must have income, lead a sober lifestyle and qualify for disability (substance abuse can be considered a disability). Rental subsidies are available for all units, and residents should expect to pay one third of their income towards rent. Call 617-542-3740.

All programs are CORI friendly.

Transportation: Silver Line: East Berkeley St.; Red Line: Broadway.

M - F: 9am - 5pm

REACH Beyond Domestic Violence

REACH comes at the issues and complexity of domestic violence from several directions simultaneously. They provide a variety of free and confidential supportive direct services for anyone experiencing domestic violence. You do not need to leave a relationship in order to receive help from REACH.

If you are interested in learning more about their services, please give them a call at 781-891-0724. If this is an emergency, please call their hotline at 800-899-4000.

Services

• Emergency Shelter
  • REACH’S shelter is a haven for those who have nowhere else to go as they escape abusive situations. REACH provides a comfortable, home-like atmosphere, compassionate counseling, and practical aid.
• Community-Based Advocacy
  • Advocates help survivors create tangible plans to keep themselves physically and emotionally safe when abusive incidents happen, find a job or housing, access benefits, and accompany them to court.

24/7

Registry Division, City of Boston

Registry: Birth, Death, and Marriage

They have information on how to get a birth certificate, how to get a death certificate, how to get a marriage certificate, and how to get married.

M - F: 9am - 4pm

RESPOND, Inc.

RESPOND provides emergency shelter and a range of support services and educational programs to thousands of survivors of domestic violence each year including adults, children, and teens regardless of gender, race, religion, age, or other characteristics. RESPOND staff work with survivors of domestic violence to address their immediate and long-term needs, providing emotional support, counseling, financial resources, information, and referrals. Through RESPOND’s programs, individuals and families in crisis develop the concrete tools necessary to regain control of their own lives – from parenting skills and housing search to financial literacy, and the hands-on experience of advocating for themselves. Services are free, confidential, and currently offered in multiple languages.

RESPOND’s Supportive Services are available to all victims and survivors of domestic violence. They include:

• Support Line provides emotional support, safety planning, resource referrals, and information on legal options, statewide shelter availability, and community resources
• Individual counseling and support groups, which help survivors define and meet their goals regarding safety, housing, employment, health care, housing issues, custody, and education
• Housing assistance program to address the unique needs of survivors and fill the gap left by anti-homelessness agencies
• Basic Assistance that helps program participants to access necessities
• Legal Support: court accompaniment, assistance accessing legal aid services, and help with diverse legal issues including restraining orders, child custody, and immigration
• Survivors of Abuse Feeling Empowered for Re-Entry (SAFER) Program designed to provide support and resources to detainees and inmates in the Suffolk County House of Corrections
• Children’s Services that help parents to meet their children’s needs
• Outreach and Education Activities through which RESPOND addresses the root causes of domestic violence
• Civilian Certified Domestic Violence Counselors embedded in six Police Departments: Malden, Melrose, Wakefield, Reading, Woburn, and Wilmington PD

RESPOND’s emergency shelter location is kept confidential to ensure the safety of program participants. Services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. RESPOND’s shelter is wheelchair accessible, and ADA approved. Its spacious Children’s Learning Center offers a safe, colorful play space and programs that promote learning, encourage parental involvement, and connect children and teens to local in- and out-of-school enrichment activities. The average length of stay for residents is 4 months. RESPOND is proud to accept women and men (or any gender identity) into shelter as well as parents with teenage boys – a rarity in Massachusetts.

Business office hours: Monday- Friday, 9am-5pm
Support and Intake Line: Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm; At all other times, callers can be connected to state and federal hotlines.

S.A.F.E.R. Program Suffolk County House of Correction at 20 Bradston St Boston, MA, 02118

Rian Immigrant Center

Rian Immigrant Center has a vision of a shared society where all are welcomed and valued, and enjoy equal opportunities and protections. By embracing their Irish traditions of hospitality and social justice, they empower more than 3,500 immigrant and refugee families from over 120 different countries every year with a comprehensive range of support services.

Services include:

• Immigration Legal Services
• Education Services 
• Resource and Support Services
• Learning Exchange Program

For updates on COVID-19, click here.

Right Turn

Right Turn provides a broad range of evidence-based treatment programs for individuals, and families recovering from substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders.

Programs/Services

• Partial Hospital Program (PHP)
• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
• Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)
• Individual Outpatient Therapy
• Family Services
• Alumni Group
• Family Group – Family Matters
• Artists in Recovery Group
• Interventions

All programs and services are covered by certain Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tufts Health Plan and other private insurance carriers. Please call for more information.

Roca, Inc.

Roca’s mission is to be a relentless force in disrupting incarceration, poverty, and racism by engaging the young adults, police, and systems at the center of urban violence in relationships to address trauma, find hope and drive change.

Programs

• Young Men Program
• Young Mother’s Program

Covid-19 Update

Boston
845 Albany Street
Boston, MA 02119
617-442-3101
boston@rocainc.com

Lynn
52 Andrew Street
Lynn, MA 01901
781-780-9611
lynn@rocainc.com

Springfield
29 School Street
Springfield, MA 01105
413-846-4301
springfield@rocainc.com

Holyoke
384 High Street
Holyoke, MA 01040
413-437-7714
holyoke@rocainc.com

Rosie’s Place

The mission of Rosie’s Place is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for poor and homeless women to maintain their dignity, seek opportunity, and find security in their lives.

Food Programs

• Dining Room
  • Monday-Friday
    • Breakfast: 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. (breakfast served 7:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. & 8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.)
    • Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (lunch served 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m.)
    • Dinner: 4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. (dinner served 4:00 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. & 4:45 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.)
  • Weekends and Holidays
    • Brunch: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (brunch served 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.  – 11:30 a.m.)
    • Dinner: 3:30 p.m.  – 4:30 p.m. (dinner served 3:00 p.m – 3:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. )
• Food Pantry
  • Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
  • Food Pantry closes after 250 guests have been served daily.
  • Guests may come to the Food Pantry once a week.
  • No ID is required to come to the Food Pantry

Emergency Services

• Essential services: Women living on the street know that they can count on Rosie’s place for a place to launder their clothes, take a shower, store their belongings in a locker or rest in our Sitting Room, all free of charge. They also provide guests with lifelines like a mailing address and use of computers and phones
• Overnight shelter: Rosie’s Place Overnight Program provides emergency shelter to 20 women for up to 21 days at a time
  • Lottery (when beds are available) – Please call 617-442-9322 for more information on lottery dates and requirements
  • Monday-Friday: 9:00 a.m.
  • Guests may stay at the overnight shelter for three consecutive weeks.
• Health and Wellness
  • The Wellness Center at Rosie’s Place provides an opportunity for women to receive sound health and medical assistance under their roof
  • Hours: Monday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Tuesday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Wednesday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. & Friday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Guests may sign up at the front desk for the following services:
  • Showers (Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.)
  • Computer use
  • Phone use
  • Laundry (Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.)
• Other services
  • Housing Specialist
  • Legal Programs
  • Women’s Education Center
    • English language classes, job readiness classes, and more
  • Employment Specialist
  • Recovery Support
  • Advocacy
    • Help with transportation, IDs, housing, rent and utility assistance, and more.

Hours vary by program

Women and anyone who self-identifies as a woman.
Target population: homeless and low-income women

Roxbury Multi-Service Center

Roxbury Multi-Service Center, Inc. (RMSC) serves children, adolescents, and their families within the communities surrounding their three locations. They’ve designed their behavioral health, education, and housing programs to respond to participants’ needs where resources are most effective.

Roxbury Youthworks, Inc.

Roxbury Youthworks, Inc.’s mission is to help youth caught in cycles of poverty, victimization and violence transition successfully into adulthood.

Services:

• District Offices (DOs)
  • RYI has 4 programs across 7 sites in Metro Boston that include: The Community Service Network supports youth committed to the Department of Youth Services (DYS) as they transition from secure treatment facilities back to their home or an alternative placement. The RYI and DYS casework team are co-located in 4 District Offices located in Dorchester, Roxbury, Roslindale, and Chelsea. They work with youths until they “age out” of DYS or end their voluntary services, assisting them to complete their education, gain employment, receive behavioral/mental health and other services.
• GIFT
  • Gaining Independence For Tomorrow (GIFT) provides prevention, intervention, support, stabilization and therapeutic services to young girls who are current victims, former victims, or at high risk of becoming victims of Commercial Sexual Exploitation (CSE). Through intensive individual mentoring, weekly psychosocial support groups, enrichment activities and leadership opportunities, their Life Coaches aid the girls in their recovery from exploitation and/or work to prevent them from entering an exploitative relationship.
• BUILD
  • Being United In Leading our Destiny (BUILD) applies the successful model developed at GIFT, but exclusively serves cisgender males, transgender and gender-nonconforming youth who are victims of Commercial Sexual Exploitation and/or sexual assault or are at high risk of becoming victims.
  • What makes GIFT and BUILD different from other programs serving this population is that they are open seven days a week.
• Dimock Street Lead Agency
  • Through RYI’s Dimock Street Lead Agency in Roxbury they work with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to facilitate and monitor all contracted youth and family support and stabilization services so that children are not removed from their family or are reunited in a safe and timely manner.

SafeLink

SafeLink is Massachusetts’ statewide 24/7 toll-free domestic violence hotline and a resource for anyone affected by domestic or dating violence. Each call is answered by a trained advocate who provides non-judgemental support, assistance with safety planning, and information on appropriate resources.

24/7

Saint Cecilia Parish

A Catholic parish where all are welcome.

Mass times:
Sat: 5:00 p.m.
Sun: 8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m.*, 11:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.
*Their 9:30 a.m. Mass is also live-streamed and can be viewed on their website
Weekday Mass: Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday 8:00 a.m.

Salvation Army Family Thrift Stores – Boston Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center

Salvation Army Boston Kroc

Experience all that the Boston Kroc has to offer. Enjoy access to classes and state-of-the-art equipment where you can focus on your fitness goals. Or explore how our arts, science and education, youth leadership, ministry, culinary arts, and other programs are helping our communities grow stronger. The Boston Kroc offers something for everyone.

The Salvation Army South End Corps
Annually, over 3,400 individuals are served through their emergency assistance programs

• Emergency Utilities Assistance/Good Neighbor Energy Fund
• Emergency Furniture Assistance
• Emergency Clothing Assistance
• Emergency Rent/Mortgage Assistance
• Food Pantry Assistance
• Energy Efficiency Funds Assistance
• Christmas Assistance

For more information on these services, please contact the South End Corps at 617-536-5260 or visit them at 1500 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02118.

The Salvation Army also runs Family Thrift stores where you can score great deals on clothing, home goods, and electronics.

• Somerville Store
  • 487 Broadway
  • Somerville, MA 02145
  • 800-728-7825
  • Bosadm@use.salvationarmy.org

Somerville Store
487 Broadway
Somerville, MA 02145

Samaritans

Samaritans’ mission is to reduce the incidence of suicide by alleviating despair, isolation, distress, and suicidal feelings among individuals in the community, 24 hours a day; to educate the public about suicide prevention; to help those who have lost a loved one to suicide, and to reduce the stigma associated with suicide.

Samaritans provides life-saving suicide prevention services throughout Greater Boston, MetroWest, and across Massachusetts. Their services are free, confidential, and nonjudgmental.

Services

• 24/7 Helpline
• Grief Support Services
• Community Education

Learn more about their services during COVID-19 here.

Helpline: 24/7
Grief Support Services: SafePlace meetings will be held virtually via Zoom until further notice. Meetings will take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings from 6:30-8pm.
Community Education & Outreach: Each week they hold a regularly scheduled suicide prevention workshop on Tuesdays at 2pm EST via zoom.

Senior Centers & Council on Aging (COA)

The COA aims to promote and safeguard the health and independence of Cambridge seniors by providing information and referrals. The two senior centers provide a variety of services and classes including:

• Senior food pantry
• Counseling and support groups
• Vision and blood pressure screening
• Breakfast and lunch service
• Men’s group
• Computer classes
• Educational and recreational offerings

M 8:30 am - 8 pm
T-T 8:30 am - 5 pm
F 8:30 am - 12 pm

North Cambridge Senior Center

2050 Massachusetts Ave.  Cambridge, MA. 02140

Must be a senior over the age of 60

Social Security: Benefits After Incarceration

An individual released from incarceration may be eligible for Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability benefits if they have worked or paid into Social Security enough years. An individual released from incarceration may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income benefits if they are 65 or older, are blind, or have a disability and have little or no income and resources. If you believe you qualify, call our toll-free telephone number, 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call TTY 1-800-325-0778.

Solutions at Work

Solutions at Work is dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness by providing individuals and families with resources and opportunities to strengthen their self-confidence, achieve self-sufficiency, and participate in helping others.

Programs

• Children’s Clothing, Books, and Toys
  • The homeless and low-income parents who participate in their Children’s Clothing Exchange trade their children’s outgrown items for age-appropriate clothing, books, and toys
• Professional Attire
  • SolutionsWear program provides interview-appropriate clothing and accessories to men and women who are enrolled in area job-training programs
• Homeless Shelter for men and women
  • Green Street in Cambridge
• Meals Program *new*
  • For unhoused individuals 5 days a week in Central Square
• Annual Backpack drive
  • Accepting new or slightly used backpacks for distribution to school children and others
  • To arrange for drop off or pick up of backpacks or other items: please call ahead for an appointment at 617-401-5335 or 617-576-0039 or email solutwork@gmail.com

Office open by appointment only Tuesday-Thursday 11am-3pm.

Masks required

Somerville Center for Adult Learning Experiences (SCALE)

SCALE’s mission is to provide adults opportunities to achieve their goals in a supportive, diverse, welcoming learning community through academic programming and guidance.

• ABE – Adult Basic Education classes
  • Adult Basic Education classes at SCALE focus on improving students’ skills in reading, writing, social studies, science, and math so that you will be prepared to pass the HiSET exam (the high school equivalency test) and to enter college.
  • Contact: Melissa Viscovich at mviscovich@k12.somerville.ma.us
• ELL – English Language Learning classes
  • Classes integrate English speaking, listening, pronunciation, vocabulary, reading, and writing. Technology is integrated into all classes as well.
  • Contact:  Corrina Horton at chorton@k12.somerville.ma.us
• ADP – Adult Diploma Program & HiSET – Equivalency Diploma
  • SCALE offers HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) and ADP (Adult Diploma Program) services and testing.
• CISCO IT – Introduction to Networking
  • Get Cisco Certified for FREE! No matter what your interests are, these classes will add to your skill set. You don’t have to know much about computers to join this class. Just be ready to learn.

Monday-Thursday: 8:00am-8:00pm
Friday: 8:00am-4:00pm

Somerville Homeless Coalition

The mission of the Somerville Homeless Coalition is to provide homeless and nearly homeless individuals and families with individualized supportive services and tailored housing solutions with the goal of obtaining and maintaining affordable housing.

Programs

• Emergency Assistance
• Food Assistance 
• Homelessness Prevention
• Outreach & Shelter
• Housing Search Assistance
• Supportive Housing 

M - F: 9am - 5pm

South Boston Neighborhood House & Senior Center

South Boston Neighborhood House and Senior Center aim to reduce isolation by offering activities and services that maintain dignity, health, independence, and self-confidence for seniors. These services aim to enhance physical, intellectual, and creative well-being through exercise, interaction, technology, and art classes. Services include:

Health and Information Programming:
• Yoga
• Weight listing
• Exercise
• Dance
• Bowling
• Health seminars

Recreational Programming:
• Bingo
• Games and movies
• Shopping
• Special events
• Holiday parties
• Trips

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic programming has been limited. Please call ahead for details.

COVID Hours: 8:30am - 1:00pm (with limited programming)

Spectrum Health Systems

St. Francis House

Since 1984, St. Francis House has offered basic care and services that make the difference between hope and despair, and often between life and death.

Programs

• Art Therapy 
• Basic Services 
  • Meals
  • Daytime Shelter and resource center
  • Clothing
  • Showers and Toiletries
  • Mail and ID services
• Behavioral Health
  • Clinical Case Management
  • Substance Use Services
• Creative Innovations
• Housing 
  • Next step housing
  • The union at 48 Boylston
• Medical clinic 
• Moving ahead program
• Next step program
• Carolyn Connors Women’s Center 
• Workforce development 

COVID-19 Updates 

Hours vary depending on program. Call or visit website for details.

St. James Helping Hands Food Pantry

Helping Hand Food Pantry operates on the second Saturday of each month from 9:30am-12:30pm at the Fresh Pond Apartments, 364 Rindge Avenue, offering a wide variety of fresh, frozen, and packaged grocery items to those in need of them.

In the new age of COVID-19, they have instituted new safety procedures and now provide each guest with individual bags of produce and boxes of dry goods rather than inviting guests in to browse.

Donations of unexpired canned and packaged food goods and cleaning supplies (e.g., hand sanitizer) can be dropped off at their location. Drop-off hours are on the second Friday of each month from 10am-12pm and the second Saturday of each month from 7:30-9:30am.

9:30am-12:30pm on the second Saturday of each month

St. Mary’s Center for Women and Children

St. Mary’s Center offers a wide variety of programs for women and children. St. Mary’s serves as a safety net for vulnerable families and children–providing a haven and home as well as life-changing programs and services.

Programs

• Crossroads
  • Provides family shelter, case management, housing search, stabilization services, and food pantry to more than 70 families each year.
  • info@ebcrossroads.org
• Margaret’s House
  • Residence offered to homeless families
• Massachusetts Maternity Transitional Housing 
  • Newest residential program that provides 12 homeless families at any one time with the tools, developmental experience, and learning opportunities that families need to thrive and succeed.
• St. Kevin’s & Uphams Corner Residential
  • Permanent housing to 20+ families who have previously experienced homelessness
• St. Mary’s Home
  • Provides residential services to 17 pregnant and parenting teenagers and their infants/toddlers at any one time
• Women’s Learning Resource Center
  • Offers ABE and pre-HiSET and high school equivalency preparation courses to women who are balancing life and family
• Education & Employment: Women@Work
  • W@W is a 20-week job readiness training program that addresses the vocational needs of women who face multiple barriers to employment, including homelessness, lack of a high-school diploma or equivalency.

COVID-19 Update 

Steppingstone Incorporated

Steppingstone Incorporated’s mission is to strengthen quality of life among individuals and families of our community through providing comprehensive client-center programs and services that enhance well-being and promote independence.

Offering various programming including:

• Residential Rehabilitation
• Outpatient Rehabilitation
• Housing for Homeless
• Peer Recovery Support
• Coordinated Care
• Pregnancy Support
• Reentry Programming

See website for programming location details

STEPRox Recovery Support Center

STEPRox is a peer-led, non-clinical support center that offers social and peer support for those with Substance Use Disorder. We have Recovery Coaches, as well as many groups that
engage, educate, and support our members as they seek their own personal path to lasting recovery, while also offering volunteer opportunities that help members gain the skills and
confidence necessary to build a life free of the bonds of addiction.

Monday-Friday: 9:30am-8pm
Saturday: 10am-6pm

Stop It Now! Helpline

The Stop It Now! Helpline is a safe place to talk with professionals, knowledgeable in the field of child sexual abuse prevention. Staff will provide you with accurate information and guidance for responding to warning signs and creating safe environments for children and adolescents. The Helpline can direct you to professional resources and support you use as you develop a plan to address your concerns. They offer understanding and compassion, as well as the steps and resources for preventing child sexual abuse.

Please be aware that the Helpline does not offer legal advice, therapy, or carry out investigations of any kind. If you need legal advice or counsel, please consult an attorney directly. They have a limited list of legal resources that can help direct you. They are not clinicians, and are not able to offer therapy, case management or individual case advocacy. Please see our specialized treatment resources. They are not a reporting agency or affiliated with sex offender registries. They are not a crisis line.

They also offer online trainings called Circle of Safety. Circles of Safety (COS) is Stop It Now!’s signature training series. These trainings are designed for adults to prevent child sexual abuse in youth-serving environments, such as schools, foster care programs, after-school programs, camps and daycares. Trainings can be delivered as webinars, community workshops and comprehensive multi-day organizational trainings, including trainer certifications.

Stop It Now! provides a skill-based, confidence-raising and action-planning educational experience. This is not a passive training about responding to abuse that has already happened; this is an educational session on actively keeping children safe wherever they learn, play and grow.

Straight Ahead Ministries

Reentry services for young men and women transitioning out of DYS or adult prisons or jails back into Boston

9-5

STRIVE – Boston Employment Services, Inc.

STRIVE Boston is a Workforce Readiness program that provides virtual training services. They envision a world where everyone has the opportunity to achieve economic self-sufficiency, dignity, and a promising future. STRIVE Boston helps people with barriers to employment realize their potential to find and keep jobs that promise sustainable livelihoods and personal growth.

Please note that the bulk of their services are now being offered virtually. In-person services are provided by appointment at their JRI Health site, which is located at 75R Amory Street in Boston.

STRIVE’s Programs

• The START program (adults 25+) is a four-week virtual training program where participants meet virtually for 1.5 hours each day. The job search phase follows the four-week training. Job club meetings are every Thursday until employment is secured.
  • Complete the START program inquiry form
• STRIVE Future Leaders program (youth ages 18-24) starts with their Future Leaders Workshop, a two-week training in which participants learn soft skills, participate in goal-setting and mentoring sessions, and benefit from an online platform administered by Penn Foster that enables youth to get industry-recognized certifications in three areas: Retail, Construction and Culinary art.
  • Complete the Strive Future Leaders inquiry form 

9am - 5pm

Valid U.S ID required, documents that establish employment eligibility, and must speak English

The Bridge Program

The Bridge to College program prepares adult students to succeed in college-level courses. Participants work on their reading, writing, math, computer, and study skills. Students who successfully complete the Bridge to College Program:

• Improve their writing, math, and academic reading skills
• Earn credits for two Bunker Hill Community College English courses
• Receive support in applying for college, financial aid, and scholarships

The Fall 2021 Bridge to College Program will run from September 2021 through June 2022.

Classes meet from 6: 15 – 9:15 p.m.

Click here to view the flyer

Questions? Contact Eleanor Stafford, program coordinator, or text/call 857-285-3217.

You must have a GED, HISET or a high school diploma. (Foreign high school diplomas must be translated into English)

Cambridge residents have priority

The Dimock Center

The Dimock Center provides the residents of Boston with convenient access to high quality, low-cost health care, and human services.

Services

• Health Center
  • Eye Care
  • Dental
  • Adult Primary Care and Speciality Clinics
  • Pharmacy
  • Pediatric Services
  • Community Care
  • Women’s and Maternity Care
• Behavioral Health
  • Emergency Shelter Programs
  • Counseling and Addiction Services
  • Residential Services Programs
  • Inpatient Detox Center
• Child and Family Services
  • Early Intervention
  • Early Head Start & Head Start Programs
  • Foundations for Learning

Mon - Fri 9-5pm

Educational Facility:
1800 Columbus Avenue, Roxbury

The Engagement Center

The EC provides a safe place for individuals to:

• Rest and connect
• Access basic resources
• Engage in recovery and homeless services
• Receive nursing care and medical supports

The EC spaces offers guests access to:

• Water, coffee, and light snacks
• Restrooms and showers
• Programming space for art, therapy and wellness services
• TV, phone chargers, wifi and books
• Computer and phone workstations available for email access, applications, and meeting with housing advocates, counselors, or recovery coaches
• Upgraded nurse stations for medical care

The Federation for Children with Special Needs

The Federation currently oversees over 15 projects related to supporting families whose children have special educational needs and special healthcare needs, as well as families of culturally and economically underserved populations by promoting family engagement within general education.  The projects are organized into five “Centers” by the primary type of service offered to families and are described below.

Programs

• Special Education Parent Center: Focuses on providing support, information, training and workshops related to special education to families of children with special needs (includes their outreach programming to culturally and linguistically underserved families). Through a variety of activities, parents can learn about the special education process (including IEP, Basic Rights, Transition Planning, MCAS, etc.) so that they can best support their child
• Family Support Center: Focuses on providing parent to parent support for families who have children with special health care needs or disabilities; women, children, adolescents and young adults infected/affected by HIV/AIDS; families of young children with early childhood mental health issues; and families who have a serious mental health challenges and complex DCF cases with child custody concerns
• Health Advocacy Center: Focuses on providing healthcare information and support to families of children with special needs, and programming that helps build capacity for family partnerships and supports partnership activities between managed care organizations and parents around improved access to services and supports
• Family and Community Engagement Center: Offers education improvement services to districts and schools in Massachusetts, partnering with districts and schools to improve student achievement and school performance through strengthening family and community engagement policies. The Center also trains community volunteers to act as “surrogate parents” for educational decision-making for students whose parents are not available.
• Parent-Professional Leadership Center: Focuses on activities that help build collaborative relationships among key education stakeholders (parents, educators, other professionals, and community partners) ensuring systemic efforts at improving educational outcomes for all students.

The Federation provides information, support, and assistance to parents of children with disabilities.

The Home for Little Wanderers

The Home for Little Wanderers helps build stable lives and hopeful futures for children who are abused, neglected or at-risk. The Home for Little Wanderers ensures their emotional, social, educational and physical well-being from birth to age 26 through a dedicated team of professionals and a wide range of critical services.

Programs

• Foster Care & Adoption
• Behavioral Health & Clinical Services 
• Residential Care
• Special Education Schools
• Young Adult Programs
• Wediko Program

The Mayor’s Office of Returning Citizens

The Office of Returning Citizens offers support to those who return to Boston after being released from state, federal, and county facilities each year. They connect returning citizens to the following resources and services:

• Birth certificates
• ID cards
• Employment
• Health services
• Legal services
• Recovery services
• Senior resources
• Voter registration

They also provide assistance with Transitional Housing (Sober Living), Workforce Development & Employment, Education, and Healthcare.

The Mayor's Office of Returning Citizens can be reached at anytime via email.

Must be releasing from incarceration and returning to Boston

The Network – La Red

The Network provides a variety of services for members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community experiencing partner abuse. The organization also provides assistance and referrals to LGBT community members. The web site is in English and Spanish, is kept up-to-date, and has information helpful to the LGBT community.

Hotline

• provides confidential emotional support, information, and safety planning for lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer and/or transgender (LGBQ/T) folks, as well as those in SM/kink and polyamorous communities who are being abused or have been abused by a partner. They also offer information and support to friends, family, or co-workers on the issue of domestic violence in LGBQ/T communities. All hotline staff are trained in domestic violence, peer counseling, crisis intervention, and safety planning.

Housing Pathways Program:

• Safehome
  •  The Safehome program offers short-term (up to 1-month) emergency housing to survivors (individual or family) at a confidential location.  Safehome does not have one specific location; at any given time, it could be located anywhere in the state. Housing Pathways staff work with the survivor to select a location that feels safest for that survivor and best fits their current needs. The primary purpose of the Safehome program is to provide respite in a place that feels safe for the survivor.  Call the 24/7 hotline to receive updates about the status of space availability and to get connected with this service
• Transitional Housing
  • Up to 2 years of financial support for housing. The type of housing is flexible and can look different for each survivor. Examples of Phase Two housing options include sober living programs, sublets, and apartments.

During both phases, participants can receive a wide range of services, such as advocacy, referrals, supportive counseling, and support group

Support Groups:

• A confidential facilitated group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer and/or transgender survivors of partner abuse to share and listen to each other’s experiences, give and get peer support, feedback and information, and help with safety planning. You can receive support over the phone or in person. Call the Hotline to set up an interview with an advocate for the support group.

Hotline is 24/7

Target population is battered members of LBT (lesbian, bisexual, and transgender) communities. Will also assist and provide referrals for gay and bisexual men.

Therapy Matcher

Therapy Matcher is a free, confidential telephone referral service offered by the National Association of Social Workers, MA Chapter. Provides professional, personalized counseling referrals matched for location, specialty, and insurance or fee requirements.

Call or email any time, and a staff person will get back to you.

Trans Club of New England (TCNE)

The Trans Community of New England (TCNE) is a Boston area transgender support organization for the transgender community.

You can find information about Workshops here.

Call on Tuesdays, from 7pm – 9pm or on Saturdays, from 7pm – 11pm to get a live voice

Target population: transgender community.

Union of Minority Neighborhoods

Union of Minority Neighborhoods (UMN) is committed to fully engaging and training communities of color to be active participants rebuilding their communities.

UMN organizes and trains people of color and low-income people to end discriminatory policies and practices that limit their access to political, economic and social power.

M - F, 9am - 5pm

United South End Settlements

At USES, they offer programs that support the whole family in achieving economic mobility.

Programs

• Family Mobility
  • Coaching
  • Income Screenings
  • Family Events & Opportunities for Engagement
  • Striving Towards Economic Prosperity (S.T.E.P)
  • For more information on Family Mobility, contact Director of Family Mobility Melody Valdes at mvaldes@uses.org or 617-375-8144
• Early Childhood Education
  • The Infant Program
  • The Toddler Program
  • The Preschool Program
  • For other questions about our Early Childhood Education program, contact Kaiti Coffin, Director of Early Childhood Education and Out of School Time, at kcoffin@uses.org or (617) 375-8119
• Club 48, Afterschool & Out of School Time
  • STEAM-driven education
  • Social and emotional learning skills
  • Homework support
  • Literacy
  • Performing arts activities
  • Process-based learning
  • Group projects
  • Field trips
  • For other questions about our club48 program, contact Kaiti Coffin, Director of Early Childhood Education and Out of School Time, at kcoffin@uses.org or (617) 375-8119
• Camp Hale
  • Contact person: Emily Koester, Operations Director at (617) 375-8173 or ekoester@uses.org

M - F 8am - 6pm. Call or visit website for class schedule.

United Way’s 211 Helpline

Mass 211 is an easy to remember telephone number that connects callers to information about critical health and human services available in their community. It serves as a resource for finding government benefits and services, nonprofit organizations, support groups, volunteer opportunities, donation programs, and other local resources. Always a confidential call, Mass 211 maintains the integrity of the 9-1-1 system saving that vital community resource for life and death emergencies.

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, Mass 211 is an easy way to find or give help in your community.

Mass 211 responds immediately during times of crisis, to field calls regarding the crisis and to direct callers to services most appropriate for their needs. If you are unable to reach 2-1-1 due to your telephone or cell phone carrier, a toll-free number is available 1-877-211-MASS (6277).

211HELPSteps is the online platform of Mass211. From any desktop or mobile device, individuals can search and then connect to local health and human service resources across the Commonwealth. Programs that are included support basic needs such as food security, housing, childcare, transportation as well as resources for mental and emotional health.

24/7

Upham’s Corner Health Center

Health center and social services for adults and children. The health center provides a range of services including:

• Medical Care – Family Medicine & Primary Care; Pediatrics (Children); Adult Medicine; Family Planning; OB/GYN & Midwifery; Prenatal Care; Pharmacy; Laboratory Services; HIV Rapid Testing service – confidential HIV testing; Podiatry (foot); Dermatology (skin); Eye Care; and Adult Day Health
• Pharmacy – Please call 617-265-1310
• Home Care
• Nutrition, Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program
• Behavioral Health and Social Services
• Dental Services
• Elder Service Plan

M – Th: 8:30am – 8pm; F: 10am – 5pm; Sat: 9am – 12:30pm

Teen Clinic and HIV & Women, Infant and Children’s Program
415 Columbia Road, Dorchester MA 02125
Tel: 617-287-0786
Tel: 617-825-8994 (WIC)

Dental & Eye Care
636 Columbia Road, Dorchester MA 02125
Tel: 617-825-9839

Upham’s Elder Service Plan (UESP) / PACE
Savin Hill 1140 Dorchester Ave, MA 02125
Dudley Square 36 Dearborn Street MA 02119
Jackson Square 125A Amory St, Boston, MA 02119
UESP/PACE Tel: 617-288-0970

Dorchester residents

Upsolve

Upsolve is a nonprofit tool that helps individuals file for bankruptcy protection for free. Think TurboTax for bankruptcy protection. Use Upsolve to wipe away crushing debts from credit cards, job loss, and medical bills.

Upsolve users must have more than $10,000 in debt.

Urban College of Boston

Whether you are looking to grow in your current career or try something new, Urban College of Boston has a program for you. They offer affordable and flexible learning options in multiple languages including English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Haitian Creole, so you can personalize your college experience to fit your needs and schedule.

Programs

• Academic Programs
  • Associate degrees
  • Certificate programs

Monday - Friday: 9am - 7pm

No international admissions. High School diploma required for an associate degree. High School diploma recommended for certificate program

Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts Inc

Customer Service & Leadership Training (CSLT) – This training prepares participants for work through classroom learning and meaningful service activities. It is designed for people who are currently unemployed, have limited work experience, and want to be job-ready. The CSLT program gives graduates the work experience they need to build their resumes and promote their skills effectively. This is a Stipend eligible program.

Computer Literacy and Internet Knowledge (CLIK)- The CLIK curriculum is designed to help students learn how to become successful in an online learning environment. This program is for individuals who have some but limited computer skills and want to become computer savvy. Partnership with Tech Goes Home

Employment Resource Center (ERC) – The ERC provides resources and services to individuals that are looking to upscale their business or skills. The ERC is available to trainees, job seekers, entrepreneurs,  and students to apply for jobs or research for business opportunities. The space offers the flexibility for small business owners, thought leaders, and entrepreneurs to use as its office space. This center grants its members access to computers, internet, printer, fax, and copy machine.

MSIMBO Urban League Coding Academy – MSIMBO means “code” in Swahili, is the Urban League of Eastern MA (ULEM) Coding Boot Camp Training program. The Program is a 20-week full stack training for adults looking to become a computer programmer. The MSIMBO training program aims to open the door of opportunity for women and people of color to begin careers in the IT industry, and in so doing address the IT industries’ need for ethnically diverse, skilled workers. Students earn 14 credit hours towards a degree from Benjamin Franklin Institute Technology. Funded by Comcast, Verizon, BNY Mellon, and Bank of America. This is a stipend eligible program. Section 30 approved.

The Domestic and Sexual Violence Project for the Urban League of Eastern MA- This project is sponsored by the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW)- partners, Safe Havens Interfaith Partnership Against Domestic Violence (expertise in Domestic Violence and Faith), The Center for Hope and Healing (expertise in Sexual Assault), Casa Myrna, (expertise in Domestic Violence and homelessness) and two of the Boston Police Departments Domestic Violence Consultants. This project is an education and action program designed specifically for Boston’s inner-city communities, to train service providers and clergy in culturally specific domestic and sexual violence intervention and prevention strategies. In addition, the project provides referrals and education to victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence who are looking for support and referrals.

DigiUL: Urban League Digital Marketing Lab- A full-time 16-week program designed to teach all the fundamentals of graphic design, branding, marketing – both from the print and interactive perspective. At the end of the 16-week program, the knowledge gained can be used to land a job in the field working as a design professional, you will have a professional level portfolio- both print and online that will have been vetted by working professionals in the field and you will have had some working experience in the field. This is a stipend eligible program. Section 30 approved.

Must be 18 years or older with a valid ID and must have a GED or High School Equivalency

Urban Renewals

• Clothes
• Shoes
• Toys, Books, and Records
• Linens
• Furniture
• Accessories
• Electronics
• Jewelry
• Miscellaneous

Mon-Sat 9-6, Sun 12-5

V.A. Boston Healthcare System for Women Veterans

VA Boston health care supports the health, welfare, and dignity of female Veterans and their families by ensuring equal access to timely, sensitive, and quality care. A women Veteran care coordinator can help you get the services you need.

Their women’s health program offers Women Veterans comprehensive care, including:

• Primary Care
  • Women’s comprehensive primary care offers “one-stop shopping” primary care. Women Veterans are scheduled to see specially trained primary care providers who also provide gender-specific primary care. Women’s Health providers are available in all of their clinic locations. They have two comprehensive primary care clinics, in Jamaica Plain and Brockton, where women can see their primary care provider as well as providers from Maternity Care and Gynecology.
• Gynecology
• Maternity care, childbirth education classes, and postpartum support
• Ultrasounds and mammograms
• Mental health care and counseling
• Lifestyle wellness services
• Women Veterans Call Center
  • Provides women Veterans information about VA services and resources, benefits, and eligibility. The toll-free line is available Monday through Friday 8:00am – 10:00pm ET and on Saturdays, 8:00am-6:30pm ET. Please see their Women Veterans Call Center website or call 855-VA-WOMEN (855-829-6636). Call, chat, or text are all available.

West Roxbury VA Medical Center
1400 VFW Parkway
West Roxbury, MA 02132

Brockton VA Medical Center
940 Belmont Street
Brockton, MA 02301

Causeway VA Clinic
251 Causeway Street
Boston, MA 02114

VA Coaching Into Care Support Line

Coaching Into Care is a free service for families and friends of Veterans. Our responders will briefly assess your concerns and provide appropriate resources and referrals. Through 10 to 30 minute calls, licensed psychologists and social workers offer guidance and help for starting conversations with the Veteran in your life about their mental health or substance use and motivating them to seek treatment if it’s needed.

Veronica B. Smith Senior Center

The Veronica B. Smith Senior Center offers the following services and programs:

• Health and Nutrition Services: Fitness programs such as weekly exercise, wellness, and line dancing classes, educational workshops, and seminars pertaining to health and nutrition are also offered.

• Direct Services and Programming: A wide range of social services can be obtained at the Center, including special seminars and workshops on legal issues and government health benefits. Comprehensive programs targeted for seniors in the greatest economic and social needs are also in place.

• Public Information: Senior Spotlight is a monthly newsletter published and distributed by the Veronica Smith Senior Center with a circulation base of over 600 community seniors and dozens of community locations such as nursing homes and elderly housing. Topics include issues, upcoming programs and services available at the Center.

Everyday 8:30 am - 4 pm

Veterans Legal Services

Veterans Legal Services promotes equity in the accessing of justice by providing free and comprehensive civil legal aid services to economically disadvantaged military veterans in Massachusetts. VLS helps former service members obtain the stability and financial security necessary to live the healthy, happy, and dignified lives they deserve.

Available Legal Services

• Bankruptcy
• Child custody
• Child support
• CORI issues/sealing criminal records
• Consumer debt
• Discharge upgrades
• Divorce
• Domestic violence protections
• Housing (e.g., evictions, conditions issues)
• Immigration
• Access to public benefits (e.g., SNAP, MassHealth)
• Subsidized housing eligibility
• Social security
• State and federal veterans benefits
• Other non-criminal legal issues

Online Screening Form

M - F 9am - 5pm

1) You served in the United States military, National Guard, or Reserves (any discharge status)

2) You currently reside in Massachusetts

3) Your household income is less than 300% of the federal poverty level

4) Your legal case must be based in Massachusetts

5)VLS must have topical expertise in your case subject matter

VLS does not provide services on criminal defense matters, Department of Children & Families cases, personal injury cases, or medical malpractice cases.

Victory Programs Inc.

Victory Programs opens doors to recovery, hope and community for individuals and families facing homelessness, addiction or other chronic illnesses like HIV/AIDS. Services include short and long-term residential treatment programs for individuals and families, affordable housing opportunities for eligible individuals, HIV/AIDS case management and housing opportunities. They also offer HIV/HCV/STI testing and they have an HIV drop in center. Multiple sites located throughout Boston.

Volunteer Lawyers Project

Free legal assistance to low-income residents of Greater Boston. Only civil cases in following areas: landlord/tenant, family law, guardianship, probate (wills and estates), bankruptcy, unemployment insurance, consumer debt, employment wage and hour violations, home ownership, and foreclosure prevention.

The Legal Resource Finder (LRF) will help you find out if VLP or some other legal aid program might be able to help you with your legal problem. It will also give you links to information that will help you to learn more about your legal issue. The LRF only includes information about civil – not criminal – issues. Click here for the Legal Resource Finder.

If you do not want to use the Legal Resource Finder, you can contact the Legal Advocacy Resource Center (LARC) Legal Advocacy and Resource Center (LARC) hotline at 617-603-1700 or 1-800-342-5297 for intake.

Whatever you tell LARC is private and confidential. A LARC staff person will ask you some questions to find out if you qualify for legal services from VLP or another office. LARC may be able to give you information or advice about your legal problem.

VLP does not handle criminal cases or represent incarcerated individuals on any matter whether related to their incarceration or not. If you do not have a kind of case that VLP handles, LARC can give you information or advice, and may be able to refer you to an agency that handles that kind of case.

DCF cases are not accepted.

Must live in greater Boston, must be a U.S. citizen or have green card, and must meet federal poverty guidelines. If residency is outside city of Boston, call to find out if address is in Volunteer Lawyers Project’s service area.

Weekend Emergency Food Pantry – Church of the Covenant

The Weekend Emergency Food Pantry program offered by Church of the Covenant provides free groceries and other necessities to Boston residents in urgent need. It operates out of the back entry at Church of the Covenant. The building is located at the corner of Berkeley and Newbury Streets in Boston’s Back Bay and the food pantry entry is down the alley off of Berkeley Street.

Sat & Sun: 10am - 12pm

People seeking assistance should bring photo identification. Visits are limited to once per month.

Whittier Street Health Center

At Whittier Street Health Center, they are dedicated to providing high quality and accessible clinical services to all of their patients.

Clinical Services

• Primary Care 
• Specialty Care 
• Oral & Eye Care
  • General Dentistry, Oral Surgery, and Orthodontics 
  • Eye Care 
  • Eye Wear Dispensary
• Pharmacy

Community Health Programs

• Anti-Violence Programming
• Community Outreach and Education Services 
• Post Prison Release/ Re-Entry Program

Whittier Street Health Center accepts walk-ins. When the Center is closed, a 24/7 live answering service will attend to all calls and direct to a provider on call.

They are also providing testing of COVID-19 at the clinic Monday – Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm. The vaccine shot is available for both Moderna and Pfizer. The 3rd shot, the booster, is also available. FLU shots for all patients also available.

M-F: 8:30am – 8pm; Sat: 8:30am – 5pm

Whittier Street Health Center – Satellite Clinic
278 Blue Hill Avenue
Roxbury, MA
617-858-2550
M-F: 8:30am – 5pm

Whittier will not deny services to any patient due to the inability to pay, disability, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, or religion.

Discounts are available for patients based on family size and income.

WilmerHale Legal Services Center of Harvard Law School

Legal assistance is provided in the following civil law areas:

Disability Benefits: Social Security Disability representation for disabled clients

Estate Planning: Estate planning and probate, guardianship, debt counseling and private insurance cases for low- and middle-income individuals. This service is only provided for veterans.

Family Law: Divorce, Domestic Violence, Paternity, Child & Spousal Support, Adoption, Guardianship, Guardian ad Litem court appointments and English/Spanish Pro Se Divorce Clinics

Federal Tax Unit: The Federal Tax Unit provides free legal representation to clients in tax controversies with the IRS.  The Unit works on a wide variety of matters, including family tax issues (e.g., earned income tax credit, child tax credit, and dependency exemptions), tax debt/collection cases (offers in compromise and installment payment agreements), injured and innocent spouse claims, and audit reconsiderations.  Their work on behalf of taxpayers involves, among other things, requesting audit reconsideration, representing clients at IRS Appeals conferences, drafting and submitting advocacy letters to IRS Appeals, preparing and submitting innocent and injured spouse claims and offers in compromise, and representing clients before the U.S. Tax Court.

Housing Law: Eviction Defense due to foreclosure

Veteran’s Issues: Veterans Benefits (service-connected disability, pension, and other programs from the VA), Veterans’ Services benefits (from Massachusetts cities and towns), other public benefit programs, discharge upgrades and designated civil matters

Services are limited due to staff availability.

LGBTQ+ Advocacy: The LGBTQ+ Advocacy Clinic works with community members, advocates, non-profit organizations, educators, medical professionals, and governmental entities to advance the rights of LGBTQ+ people at both the national and local levels. The Clinic engages in impact litigation, policy advocacy, and direct representation on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community, with a particular focus on issues affecting underrepresented groups within the LGBTQ+ umbrella.

M - F: 9am - 5pm; Intake hours vary - please call.

Suffolk County residents only. No criminal issues are handled.

Women’s Lunch Place

Mon-Sat 7:00AM-2:00PM

Anyone that identifies as a woman is welcome and their children (though services are for adult women only).

Women’s Prison and Re-Entry Project

The Women’s Prison and Re-Entry Project serves women incarcerated in Massachusetts’ prisons and jails, or those who have been involved with the criminal justice system. The Project normally operates at South Bay House of Correction in Suffolk County. In teams, volunteer attorneys meet with women and answer questions regarding family law, child custody, care and protection, housing, CORI, and criminal warrant clearing. During COVID-19 they are not visiting prisons or jails in person but are available to do Zoom educationals as requested by facilities or re-entry programs.

WPRP has launched a new Clemency Project which offers legal representation regarding petitions for clemency to incarcerate women serving long sentences. For more information, please contact Lola Remy, Director of Pro Bono Programs at LRemy@womensbar.org

Meetings are normally held quarterly at Women’s Bar Foundation (WBF) Offices, 5:00-6:30 PM, but during the pandemic, they are held by Zoom (dates on website). Please contact Lola Remy at the WBF for Zoom link information at lremy@womensbar.org

Women’s Transition Program, SMOC

Located in the Opportunity Center, the Framingham Women’s Transition Program offers a safe and supportive environment where female ex-offenders can get the support they need to make a successful transition to life in the community. Program participants are assigned a case manager who will assist them in developing an Individual Service Plan (ISP) designed to meet their personal goals.

To be eligible for services, an individual must meet one of the following criteria:

1. Recently released from a Massachusetts Correctional facility (within the past 6 months).
2. Currently incarcerated at a Massachusetts Correctional facility (will be released within the next 6 months).
3. Currently on Probation or Parole.

X-Cel Education

The X-CEL School offers pre HiSET, HiSET, and College Prep classes at several four locations in Boston. Most of the classes have “rolling admissions” so that students can begin at any time. This was done in part to make it possible for returning citizens to begin classes no matter when their incarceration ended. Classes are small and each student advances through the skill levels at his or her own pace.

STRIVE: This program is a collaboration between STRIVE Employment Services and X-Cel. STRIVE operates a 5-week job readiness program, which runs Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm. The program focuses on changing the participants’ behavior and attitude so that they will be successful in securing employment and keeping it.

Integrated into STRIVE’s 9 – 5 program, X-Cel comes in twice a week for two hours each day to provide reading and math classes in preparation for the HiSet exam. At the end of the five-week cycle, STRIVE participants who lack a high-school diploma, are then referred to one of X-Cel’s community-based HiSet prep classes. The reading and math classes at STRIVE/Codman Square are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2pm – 4pm. Also see the STRIVE Directory Listing.

X-Cel Conservation Corps breaks the cycle of poverty by preparing Boston youth for careers in water management and conservation that lead to economic self-sufficiency. Key components of the X-Cel Conservation Corps include workforce readiness development, paid conservation projects to improve water quality and build environmental resilience in Eastern Massachusetts, classes to prepare for wastewater operator license, and paid internships in the water management field.

Morning classes Mon-Thurs. 10:am-12:30pm
Evening classes Mon.-Wed. 6-9:30PM

No walk ins. Must make appointment for intake.

Physical location is at 39 Smith Street, Second Floor, Roxbury MA 02119

They are no longer holding classes at any other locations at this time.

Must be 18 or older.

For GED: must be able to read at 4th grade level.

For College Prep: must have GED or High School Diploma.

Yardtime, Inc.

YMCA Training, Inc.

YMCA Training, Inc. provides job skills training and employment assistance in close collaboration with the business community.

Their program is an intensive 20-week, full-time (600 hours) computerized office skills training and employment program. Designed to replicate the expectations of a professional office environment, the training prepares participants with both the technical and job readiness skills to succeed.

Opportunities for Specialization

• Business Administrative Support
  • Microsoft 365 online applications (including Word, Excel, Powerpoint)
  • Intro to Google applications
  • Filing, data entry, reception skills to support a variety of financial, non-profit and government industries
• Medical Office and Health Insurance
  • Medical terminology, HIPPA
  • Patient registration and scheduling
  • Front desk and phone procedures
  • Medical records management, benefit administration, claims processing, health insurance, advanced customer service training

• High School Diploma or HiSET (GED)
• Access to technology i.e. laptop and internet (assistance available)
•  5 month full-time commitment
• Seeking full0time employment
• Application for funding

If you need additional English skills, they can see co-enrollment with their sister school The International Learning Center before starting training.

Youth Options Unlimited (YOU) Boston

YOU Boston is a workforce development organization that works with young people, ages 16-24, who are court-involved or gang-affiliated, reentering the community from incarceration, or seeking refuge from poverty or violence.

Services

• Career Pathways
• Case Management/Workshops
• Operation Exit & Special Initiatives
• Transitional Employment
• Summer Youth Employment

9am-5pm typically, however flexible

• Boston Residents
• 14-24 years old
• Previous or current involvement in criminal justice system and or gang involvement

YouthBuild Boston

YouthBuild Boston aims to empower and assist underserved young people from the Boston area with the essential social, vocational, academic, and life skills necessary to navigate a positive pathway to self-sufficiency and neighborhood responsibility

Programs

• Building Trades Exploration
  • This 6-9 month academic and construction trades program is for young people aged 17-24 who do not have a high school diploma. Program participants gain exposure to construction and landscaping safety, tools, materials, techniques and methods while taking HiSET prep classes for their high school equivalency (HSE)
• Pre-Apprentice
  • This 15-week program is for young people aged 18-25 who already have their high school diploma or equivalent, and are interested in starting a career in the construction industry. Students gain field experience on real construction sites to ensure that they are ready for employment in the field upon graduation.
• The Designery
  • Their 7 to 10-week sessions are geared toward high school students who want an enriching after-school experience. Students are paid a bi-weekly stipend while they hone fundamental graphic, modeling, and design-thinking skills through real design projects for non-profit clients around the city.
• Facilities Maintenance
  • The only registered Facilities Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship in the state of Massachusetts, their 18-month program consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job training that leads to a sustainable career as a Facilities Maintenance Technician.

YW Boston

As the first YWCA in the nation, YW Boston helps individuals and organizations change policies, practices, attitudes, and behaviors with the goal of creating more inclusive environments where women, people of color, and especially women of color can succeed.

The F.Y.R.E. Initiative is YW Boston’s leadership and empowerment program for middle school girls in the Greater Boston area. The program’s curriculum incorporates social justice education, positive identity development, and civic engagement. Each weekly session is designed to promote dialogue and experiential learning to cultivate empathy and increase social-emotional learning.