Housing and Other Essential Needs

This section covers the major available needs programs for income-eligible disabled persons:

Each major program area is specifically discussed as they are operated in Massachusetts; however, many of these programs are federally-sponsored and are available in other states, and other state and local governments provide their own support services.

In addition to the specific programs found listed above, there are some general resources that can provide advice and assistance in multiple areas:

Mass211 is a state-wide platform for information and referral, operated by the United Way. The website and phone line (simply dial 211) provides a wealth of information on the many different programs available to income-eligible disabled and non-disabled persons.

Mass211 provides information on food banks, clothing, shelters, rent and utility assistance, medical information lines, support groups, counseling, rehabilitation, health insurance programs, Medicaid and Medicare, unemployment benefits, financial assistance, transportation, home care, meal delivery services, respite care, and homemaker services. Callers will speak to a live person, who can provide references to services within the caller’s immediate area.

211 telephone assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All calls are confidential. Besides Massachusetts, it is available in 40 states and the District of Columbia.

Massachusetts Association for Community Action coordinates 23 Community Action Agencies (CAAs) across the state. Each CAA provides assistance in connecting people to local, state, or federal services that can help them to meet their daily needs.

Independent living centers are private, nonprofit, consumer-controlled organizations providing services and advocacy by and for people with all types of disabilities. They create opportunities and help people with disabilities reach their goals through peer counseling, skills training, advocacy, and information and referral. Centers may also provide a range of other services such as housing referrals, communication help, support groups, transportation, health information and much more. They also serve as a strong consumer voice on a wide range of national, state and local issues.

The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission provides a range of services to empower people with disabilities. Their services include vocational training and employment assistance, disability determination for federal benefits, access to assistive technology, and homecare assistance.