Emergency Assistance, Resources, and Programs for Seniors in Massachusetts

Last updated: August 2025

This guide is a practical, state-specific roadmap for older adults (60+) and caregivers in Massachusetts who need urgent help with food, cash, housing, utilities, health care, transportation, and legal matters. It focuses on real programs, how they work, and how to apply—using official sources you can trust.

---

Quick help box (keep these handy)

Reality check: Some programs have waitlists, limited funds, or deadlines. Always apply as early as possible and keep copies of everything you submit.

---

What to do first if you’re in a crisis

1. Safety first
   • Call 911 for medical or safety emergencies.
   • For mental health crisis, call or text 988 (988lifeline.org).
2. Stabilize your basics
   • Food: Apply for SNAP; ask about fast-track (expedited) SNAP if your income is very low. See SNAP (DTA).
   • Housing: If you’re behind on rent or at risk of eviction, contact your regional Housing Consumer Education Center to apply for RAFT. See RAFT.
   • Heat/utilities: Apply for LIHEAP (fuel assistance) and ask your utility about arrearage forgiveness (AMP). See HeatHelp/LIHEAP and AMPs (DPU).
3. Call the right navigator
   • MassOptions 1-800-243-4636 connects you to local Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) for meals, home care, transportation, and more: MassOptions.
   • For Medicare questions or plan choices, book a free SHINE session: SHINE.
   • For veterans, contact your local Veterans’ Service Officer (Chapter 115 benefits): Find your VSO.
4. Gather documents you’ll need
   • Photo ID; Social Security number; proof of Massachusetts address; proof of income (Social Security/SSI/SSP statements, pensions), bank statements, rent or mortgage bill, utility bills, medical bills.
   • Keep a folder. Write down every call, name, date, and what was said.
5. Beware of scams
   • No real agency charges to apply for public benefits.
   • If someone pressures you on the phone to “act now” or asks for payment gift cards, hang up and call the agency back using the official number above.
   • Report to the MA AG’s Elder Hotline: AG Elder Hotline.

---

Emergency food and nutrition

Massachusetts has several ways to get food quickly, then stretch your budget month-to-month.

• SNAP (food stamps) is the main benefit to buy groceries. Apply online or by phone with the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA): SNAP – DTA.
• Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline (1-800-645-8333) will help you find local pantries and help with SNAP applications: Project Bread – Get Help.
• Meals on Wheels and community lunch sites are run through local Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) funded by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs: Nutrition programs for older adults.
• Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) gives you back money on your EBT when you buy fruits and vegetables from authorized farm vendors: Healthy Incentives Program (HIP).
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program gives seasonal coupons for farm produce: SFMNP in MA.

Food programs at a glance

Tips and realities:

• If your income is very low, ask DTA about “expedited” SNAP, which can issue benefits faster. See SNAP details at DTA SNAP.
• HIP works only with participating farm vendors and has monthly caps. Check the vendor map on the HIP page: HIP.
• Meal programs may have waitlists or limited routes in rural areas; call your ASAP early. Find your ASAP via MassOptions.

---

Cash and income supports (quick and ongoing help)

Key programs for seniors with very low income or in a short-term crisis:

• Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children (EAEDC): State cash benefit for certain low-income older adults (for example, age 65+ who are not yet on SSI). Apply through DTA: EAEDC.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Federal cash benefit for low-income seniors and people with disabilities. Apply with Social Security: SSI – SSA.
• Massachusetts State Supplement Program (SSP): A state payment added to SSI (and some other categories) for Massachusetts residents; administered with DTA: SSP for SSI recipients.
• Veterans’ Chapter 115 Benefits: Monthly cash and medical assistance for low-income Massachusetts veterans and their dependents, administered locally by Veterans’ Service Officers (VSOs): Chapter 115 benefits. Find your VSO: VSO Finder.

Cash assistance overview

Reality check:

• Processing can take time. If you have zero income or face eviction or shutoff, tell the office you need urgent help.
• Keep all notices and respond by the deadlines. If you’re denied, you can appeal; your local legal aid can help: MassLegalHelp.

---

Health coverage, Medicare help, and medical bills

• MassHealth for people 65+: Coverage options include MassHealth Standard and programs for long-term services and supports; see current rules and benefits: MassHealth for 65+.
• Health Safety Net: Helps cover hospital and certain community health center services for low-income uninsured or underinsured Massachusetts residents: Health Safety Net.
• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI): Pay some or all of Medicare Part B premium and possibly Medicare cost-sharing if your income is within limits; administered by MassHealth: Medicare Savings Programs.
• Prescription drug help (Extra Help): Lowers Part D drug costs for eligible Medicare enrollees; apply via Social Security: Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs.
• Free, unbiased Medicare counseling: SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) through the Executive Office of Elder Affairs: SHINE.
• Senior Care Options (SCO) and PACE: Integrated Medicare-Medicaid care plans for eligible seniors; may include transportation, in-home supports, and care coordination: SCO, PACE.

Health coverage programs at a glance

Tips:

• Bring your current Medicare card, list of medications, and any plan letters to your SHINE appointment.
• Income and asset limits change yearly; use the official pages above for current numbers.

---

Housing and eviction prevention

Massachusetts has strong eviction-prevention and senior housing options, but demand is high and waitlists are common. Start early and keep paperwork ready.

• RAFT (Residential Assistance for Families in Transition): One-time/short-term help with rent arrears, security deposits, and some moving costs; available to eligible households including older adults. Apply through your regional Housing Consumer Education Center (HCEC): RAFT – Apply and find your HCEC.
• Public housing for seniors (state-aided “Chapter 667” elderly/disabled housing): Apply through the state’s centralized system (CHAMP): Apply for public housing (CHAMP).
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher: Federal rental vouchers. Many housing authorities in MA participate in a centralized waitlist: MassNAHRO Section 8 Waiting List.
• Tenancy Preservation Program (TPP): Helps at-risk tenants with disabilities keep housing and avoid eviction when disability-related issues are involved: TPP.
• Legal help for eviction: Free and low-cost legal assistance is available; start with MassLegalHelp housing section and your local legal aid.
• Emergency shelter: For shelter options, call 2-1-1 for the most current openings and referrals: Mass 211. State emergency assistance shelters primarily serve families with children; older adults without children should use 2-1-1 and local Continuum of Care networks for individual shelter and rehousing resources.

Property tax relief for homeowners:

• Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit: State income tax credit for eligible older homeowners and renters whose property taxes (or rent equivalent) exceed a set share of their income: Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit.
• Property tax deferral (Clause 41A) and local exemptions: Ask your city/town assessor about programs for seniors; overview at Property tax relief for seniors.
• Senior property tax work-off program: Exchange volunteer service for a property tax reduction (offered by many municipalities): Senior Citizen Property Tax Work-Off.

Housing and utility help

Reality check:

• RAFT and similar funds can run out; re-check the website often and sign up for notifications if available.
• Always go to your court date. Missing it makes eviction more likely. Bring proof of RAFT application, medical letters, and payment plans.

---

Heat, utilities, and internet

• LIHEAP (Fuel Assistance): Helps pay for heat (oil, gas, electricity, etc.) and sometimes past-due balances; administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) through local agencies: HeatHelp/LIHEAP.
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free energy-saving improvements (insulation, sealing, etc.) for eligible households: Weatherization Assistance Program.
• Utility Arrearage Management Programs (AMPs): Forgive portions of past-due electric/gas bills as you make on-time payments; rules vary by utility, overseen by the DPU: AMPs overview.
• Shutoff protections (winter, serious illness, elderly protections): MA has special protections; learn your rights:
  • Winter moratorium: Winter shutoff protections
  • Serious illness protections: Serious illness protections
  • Elderly customer protections: Elderly protections
• Lifeline phone/internet discount: Federal program for low-income households: Lifeline.
• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended due to lack of funding; see official status: FCC ACP. Check your library or local Council on Aging for public Wi‑Fi and device loan programs.

Utility and connectivity options

Tips:

• Tell your utility if someone 65+ lives in the home; elderly protections may apply.
• Apply for LIHEAP early in the heating season; funds are limited and documentation is required.

---

Transportation and mobility

• MBTA Senior CharlieCard (65+): Reduced fares on the subway, bus, and Commuter Rail Zone 1A: Senior CharlieCard.
• The RIDE (paratransit): Door-to-door shared van service within the MBTA service area for people who can’t use fixed-route transit: The RIDE.
• Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs): Buses and paratransit across the state (e.g., BRTA, FRTA, PVTA, WRTA, LRTA, GATRA, SRTA, CCRTA, MART, MVRTA). Check schedules, reduced fares, and ADA paratransit: Massachusetts RTAs.
• Non-emergency medical transportation (MassHealth): PT-1 authorization for rides to covered appointments: MassHealth transportation (PT-1).
• Disabled parking placards/plates: Apply for disabled parking.

Transportation programs summary

Tip: Your Council on Aging often runs van rides to medical appointments and grocery stores. Find your COA via MassOptions.

---

Safety, emergencies, and preparedness

• Sign up for local alerts: The state system, AlertMA, shares emergency notifications from your city/town and MEMA: AlertMA.
• Emergency planning (storms, heat, power outages): See MEMA’s guidance for older adults and people with disabilities: MEMA. Heat safety and cooling centers: Extreme heat safety.
• Elder abuse (physical, emotional, neglect, self-neglect, or financial): Report 24/7 to Elder Protective Services: 1-800-922-2275 or online at Report Elder Abuse.
• Consumer protection and scams (home improvement, utility imposters, fake charities): Contact the Attorney General’s Office Elder Hotline: AG Elder Hotline.

---

Special situations and communities

LGBTQ+ older adults

• Fenway Health’s LGBT Aging Project offers welcoming programs, support groups, and help navigating services: Fenway Health – LGBT Aging Project.
• Ask your local ASAP for LGBTQ+-inclusive meal sites and caregiving support via MassOptions.

Veterans and surviving spouses

• Chapter 115 benefits provide monthly cash and medical assistance for low-income Massachusetts veterans and dependents via local VSOs: Chapter 115 benefits.
• VA health care and Aid & Attendance (for those needing help with daily activities) can supplement care costs: VA Health Care.
• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1, or visit Veterans Crisis Line.

Tribal members and Native elders

• Massachusetts has two federally recognized tribes:
  • Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe: Tribal website
  • Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah): Tribal website
• Contact your tribal government for elder services, housing support, and cultural programs.
• Federal resources: Indian Health Service: IHS; Older Americans Act programs for Native elders: ACL – Native American Programs.

Rural seniors and limited access areas

• Transportation is the main barrier. Use your Regional Transit Authority’s demand-response service and Council on Aging vans: RTAs list, MassOptions.
• Telehealth/internet: The federal ACP ended (FCC ACP); check your local library for Wi‑Fi, device loans, and digital literacy help via the MA Board of Library Commissioners: MBLC – Find a Library.
• Food access: Ask Project Bread (1-800-645-8333) about mobile markets, pantry delivery, and Meals on Wheels coverage in your town: Project Bread – Get Help.

---

How to apply effectively (and avoid delays)

• Use online portals when available and take photos of documents before uploading.
• If you can’t apply online, call the agency and ask for paper applications or help by phone.
• If you have a medical condition, ask your doctor for a brief letter for accommodations (e.g., assistance with forms, home visit, serious-illness utility protection).
• Check your mail often. If you get a notice you don’t understand, call MassOptions (1-800-243-4636) or your local ASAP and ask for help.
• Missed a deadline? Many programs allow late documents with good cause. Ask in writing.

---

Useful Massachusetts resources (by topic)

• Aging services and care coordination: MassOptions
• Executive Office of Elder Affairs: EOEA
• Food assistance: SNAP (DTA), Project Bread, Nutrition programs for older adults, HIP
• Cash benefits: EAEDC, SSI, SSP, Chapter 115
• Health and Medicare help: MassHealth 65+, HSN, Medicare Savings Programs, SHINE, PACE, SCO, Extra Help
• Housing: RAFT/HCECs, Public Housing (CHAMP), Section 8 list, TPP, Tenants’ rights, MassLegalHelp
• Utilities/heat: LIHEAP, Weatherization, AMPs, Shutoff protections, Lifeline, Good Neighbor Energy Fund
• Transportation: Senior CharlieCard, The RIDE, RTAs, PT-1 Medical rides, Disabled parking
• Safety: AlertMA, MEMA, Report Elder Abuse, AG Elder Hotline

---

Resources by region (find local help faster)

The fastest way to find your local Aging Services Access Point (ASAP), Council on Aging (COA), meal site, or transportation is MassOptions: Find local help. Below are starting points by region.

Greater Boston

• Boston residents: Age Strong Commission (Boston’s Area Agency on Aging): Age Strong
• MBTA services: Senior CharlieCard, The RIDE

North Shore and Merrimack Valley

• Elder Services and meal programs via your local ASAP; start at MassOptions.
• RTAs: MBTA (some communities), MVRTA: MVRTA (check RTA list: RTAs)

Central Massachusetts and North Central

• Aging services and Meals on Wheels via ASAPs; find yours: MassOptions.
• Transit: WRTA and MART; see RTA list.

Western Massachusetts (Berkshire, Franklin, Hampshire, Hampden)

• ASAPs handle meals, home care, caregiver support; find yours: MassOptions.
• Transit: BRTA, FRTA, PVTA; see RTA list.

South Shore, South Coast, and MetroWest

• ASAPs and COAs provide meals/transport; find yours: MassOptions.
• Transit: GATRA, SRTA, MWRTA; see RTA list.

Cape Cod and the Islands

• Elder Services of Cape Cod & the Islands and local COAs; find services: MassOptions.
• Transit: CCRTA and local island transit; see RTA list.

If you prefer a warm handoff by phone, call MassOptions at 1-800-243-4636 for the exact agency that serves your city or town.

---

Key Massachusetts facts and context

• Population age 65 and over in Massachusetts is roughly one in six residents. See the U.S. Census Bureau for current percentages: Census QuickFacts – Massachusetts.
• Program rules and income limits change each year. Always check the official program pages linked above for the latest numbers and forms.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: I need food this week. What’s the fastest option?
A: Call Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333 for nearby pantries and meal sites (Get Help). Also apply for SNAP online at DTAConnect. If your income is very low, ask DTA about expedited SNAP.

Q2: I’m behind on rent and got a notice to quit. What should I do?
A: Apply for RAFT immediately through your regional Housing Consumer Education Center (RAFT). Keep all court papers and go to your hearing. Bring proof you applied. For legal help, see MassLegalHelp.

Q3: My heat might be shut off. Can the utility do that?
A: Massachusetts has protections, especially in winter, for serious illness, and for households with someone 65+. Learn your rights and call your utility and the DPU Consumer Division (DPU protections).

Q4: What’s the difference between SSI and EAEDC?
A: SSI is a federal monthly benefit from Social Security (SSI). EAEDC is a Massachusetts cash program through DTA, often used while waiting for SSI (EAEDC).

Q5: Does Massachusetts help pay Medicare costs?
A: Yes. The Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI), run by MassHealth, can pay your Part B premium and possibly some cost-sharing if you qualify (Medicare Savings Programs.). Get free counseling from SHINE (SHINE).

Q6: I can’t drive anymore. What are my options for rides?
A: Try your Council on Aging van, your Regional Transit Authority’s paratransit, The RIDE (MBTA area), or MassHealth PT-1 for medical appointments. See RTAs, The RIDE, and PT-1.

Q7: My internet bill is too high. What help is available now that ACP ended?
A: The Affordable Connectivity Program ended due to lack of funding (FCC ACP). You can still apply for Lifeline for phone/internet discounts (Lifeline). Ask your library and COA about Wi-Fi, devices, and digital skills classes.

Q8: How do I get Meals on Wheels?
A: Contact your local Aging Services Access Point through MassOptions at 1-800-243-4636 or visit MassOptions. Program availability and diet options vary by town.

Q9: Can I get help with home heating repairs or insulation?
A: Yes. The Weatherization Assistance Program provides free energy improvements for eligible households (WAP). LIHEAP can address heating bills and sometimes fuel emergencies (HeatHelp).

Q10: I’m a veteran with low income. Is there state cash assistance?
A: Yes. Massachusetts Chapter 115 benefits offer monthly cash and medical help for eligible veterans and dependents. Apply with your local VSO (Find your VSO) and see Chapter 115.

Q11: I think my caregiver or a relative is taking my money. What do I do?
A: Report suspected elder abuse or financial exploitation 24/7 at 1-800-922-2275 or online (Report Elder Abuse). You can also call the AG’s Elder Hotline for help (AG Elder Hotline).

Q12: How do I find senior housing?
A: Apply to state-aided elderly/disabled public housing through CHAMP (CHAMP application). Also consider Section 8 vouchers (MassNAHRO list). Waitlists are common; apply widely and update your contact info.

Q13: Can someone help me compare Medicare plans?
A: Yes. SHINE offers free, unbiased counseling for Medicare and related coverage (SHINE).

Q14: I rent and my property taxes aren’t my issue. Do I get any tax help?
A: You might qualify for the Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit, which also applies to eligible renters. See current rules at DOR – Senior Circuit Breaker and speak with a tax preparer.

Q15: Where can I get up-to-date statewide alerts?
A: Sign up for AlertMA to receive emergency notifications from your city/town and MEMA.

---

Step-by-step: A sample 72-hour plan

Day 1

• Call 2-1-1 for local food, shelter, or financial help.
• Submit online applications: SNAP (DTAConnect) and RAFT (RAFT).
• Call your utility and ask about AMP and shutoff protections; apply for LIHEAP at HeatHelp.

Day 2

• Call MassOptions (1-800-243-4636) to connect with your ASAP for Meals on Wheels and home supports.
• Book a SHINE appointment if you need Medicare or MassHealth help.

Day 3

• Gather any missing documents and upload or deliver them.
• If you received a court or agency notice, call legal aid (MassLegalHelp) and your VSO (if a veteran).
• Write down every step taken and confirmation numbers.

---

Notes on documentation and proofs

• Identity and residency: MA ID, license, or other photo ID; a current piece of mail or lease; Social Security card if you have it.
• Income: Social Security/SSI/SSP award letters, pension statements, 1099s, bank statements.
• Housing: Lease or rent receipt, notice to quit, utility bills.
• Medical: Medicare card, MassHealth ID, list of medications, serious-illness letter if needed for utility protections.

If you can’t find a document, tell the agency; often there are other ways to verify.

---

Sources and verification

• Government program pages are linked throughout this guide.
• For population context, see U.S. Census QuickFacts for Massachusetts: QuickFacts – Massachusetts.
• For current status of internet subsidies, see FCC ACP and Lifeline.

---

Disclaimer

Program rules, income limits, documents required, and funding levels can change at any time. Always verify details on the official agency website or with the program office linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal or financial advice.

---

About this guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.