Help in Massachusetts
For people starting over after prison, foster care, treatment, homelessness, abuse, or trafficking
We've verified 21 places in Massachusetts, most of them in Worcester, Boston and Springfield, plus 11 that serve the whole state. The most help we've found here is for people after prison or jail (14) and leaving homelessness (11).
Greater Boston Legal Services
Free civil legal aid for low-income people in Boston and 31 surrounding cities and towns, covering housing and eviction, public benefits, immigration, employment, and domestic violence protection. Telephone intake runs weekday mornings, with walk-in hours twice a week at the Friend Street office.
Community Legal Aid
Free civil legal help for residents of Worcester, Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, and Berkshire counties with income generally under 200% of the federal poverty level; seniors 60+ and crime victims qualify regardless of income. Offices in Worcester and Springfield; apply by phone during set intake hours.
My Life My Choice
Boston-based program pairing commercially sexually exploited and high-risk youth with Survivor Mentors, plus prevention groups and training for providers. Parents, social workers, school staff, and clinicians refer young people through the online referral form.
Amirah
Safe housing, case management, and long-term aftercare for women exiting sex trafficking and the commercial sex trade in the Boston area and North Shore. Call the services line or submit the online form; staff respond within two business days.
YWCA of Western Massachusetts 24-Hour Hotline
Bilingual 24-hour crisis line for the Springfield region covering domestic violence, sexual assault, homelessness, and human trafficking, with emergency shelter, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, supportive housing, and services for children who witness violence. Advocates can meet survivors at area hospitals.
Registry of Vital Records and Statistics
Order a certified Massachusetts birth certificate in person for $20 at the Dorchester counter, by mail for $32, or online or by phone through VitalChek for $54. Bring a driver's license (even expired) or other government photo ID.
Massachusetts ID Card (Mass ID)
State photo ID for Massachusetts residents 14 and older who do not hold a driver's license. Start the application online, then book an RMV Service Center appointment and bring identity documents; the fee is $25, prorated for shorter-term cards.
SNAP Benefits (Food Stamps)
Monthly food benefits for low-income Massachusetts households. Apply through DTAConnect online or the mobile app, or call the DTA Assistance Line; the site has a 10-second eligibility screener.
National lines that work in Massachusetts
SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential treatment referral for substance use and mental health. Finds local programs that take your insurance or none.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for any mental health or substance use crisis. Available to anyone in any program.
Lifeline free phone program
Free or discounted phone and service for people on Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or low income. Apply online or through a carrier.
National Human Trafficking Hotline
24/7 confidential hotline for survivors of trafficking and people who suspect it. Connects to vetted local services.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
24/7 confidential help for anyone affected by domestic violence. Advocates connect you to local shelters and legal help.
Start right where you are
Each program has a step-by-step checklist for the first 72 hours, 30 days, and 90 days, so you always know your next step.