MASSACHUSETTS HAPPENIN'S - September 2010
DISCLAIMER
JUST A SHORT NOTE TO STATE THAT THE PURPOSE OF THIS PUBLICATION IS TO PASS
PRECIOUS INFORMATION ON TO THOSE OF NEED. OCCASIONALLY, THERE WILL BE
ARTICLES BY OTHER WRITERS. I MAY NOT NECESSARILY AGREE WITH THEIR
VIEWPOINTS, HOWEVER, I DO RESPECT THEM. THANK YOU
Works to increase job opportunities for youth and adults with disabilities in Massachusetts. Individuals and families can explore job
and career options. Employers can find information they need to hire, train, manage, accommodate and promote people with
disabilities within their workforces.
For more information visit this link: http://www.disability.gov/state/massachusetts/employment
***************************************************
Program Description
Food stamps began in the United States in the late 1930's to help people buy and eat nutritious food, be stronger, and make up a
more productive society. In 1971, the Food Stamp Program became a nationwide entitlement program. That means that as long as
you meet the rules for food stamps, you have a legal right to get them. Eligibility for food stamp benefits depends on the number of
people in your household and how much income you have. To get food stamp benefits, households must meet certain tests,
including resource (assets) and income tests.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts and fall into one of two groups: (1)
those with a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $2,001, or (2) those with a current bank balance
(savings and checking combined) under $3,001 who share their household with a person or persons age 60 and over, or with a
person with a disability (a child, your spouse, a parent, or yourself). For either group, you must also have an annual household
income of less than $20,420 if one person lives in the household; $27,380 if two people live in the household; $34,340 if three people
live in the household; $41,300 if four people live in the household; $48,260, if five people live in the household; $55,220 if six people
live in the household; $62,180 if seven people live in the household; or $69,140 if more than seven people live in the household.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
For more information, see the Program Contact Information below.
Program Contact Information
To apply for food stamp benefits in Massachusetts, you may:
Complete the application and either mail, fax or drop it off at the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) Office that serves
your city or town.
Or ask that an application be mailed to you by calling:
800-249-2007
Or go to your local DTA office that serves your city or town. To find your local DTA office, visit our website at:
http://www.state.ma.us/dta/assist/location/index.htm
If a member of your household is an elderly (age 60 or over) and/or disabled person, special rules apply in order to receive Food
Stamps in Massachusetts. For more information, please contact the Department of Transitional Assistance at:
800-249-2007
To apply online or to print out an application, go to:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2modulechunk%26L=4%26L0=Home%26L1=Governme...
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
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Program Description
The School Breakfast Program provides funding that makes it possible for schools to offer a nutritious breakfast to students each
day. Schools receive Federal funds for each breakfast served, provided that the meal meets established nutrition standards. The
State of Massachusetts provides additional funds to schools for each meal served to children who qualify for free or reduced-price
meals.
The goal of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is to protect the health and well-being of the nation's children by providing
nutritious school meals every day. NSLP provides funding that makes it possible for schools to offer a nutritious school lunch.
Schools receive Federal funds for each lunch served, provided that the meal meets established nutrition standards. The Federal
government and the State of Massachusetts provide additional funds to schools for each meal served to children who qualify,
because of family income, for free or reduced-price meals.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts and a parent or primary caregiver
responsible for a child(ren) who attends school (high school or under). Those who qualify must also have an annual household
income before taxes that must not exceed $26,955 if two people live in the household; $33,874 if three people live in the household;
$40,793 if four people live in the household; $47,712 if five people live in the household; $54,631 if six people live in the household;
$61,550 if seven people live in the household; and $68,469 if eight people live in the household. For larger households, add $6,919 for
each additional person in the home.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
To apply for free or reduced price meals, contact your child's school. A listing of your state's schools can be found here:
http://profiles.doe.mass.edu/search/search.aspx
Program Contact Information
For additional information about the programs, please visit the Massachusetts Child Nutrition office at:
http://www.doe.mass.edu/cnp/nprograms/
If you have further questions on this initiative, please contact the Massachusetts Child Nutrition Programs office regarding the
programs.
781-338-6479
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
****************************************
Program Description
The Massachusetts Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) (Fuel Assistance) provides eligible households with
help in paying winter heating bills. The program pays benefits of fixed amounts based on household income. An additional benefit is
available to eligible households having a high-energy burden. Local administering agencies determine household eligibility based on
annualized income and the number of members in the household. The agency then will make payments towards the heating bills to
the primary heat source vendor (oil, propane, wood or coal dealer, or gas or electric utility). Special provisions are made for those
households whose heat is included in their rent and those living in subsidized housing.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the state of Massachusetts, you must need financial
assistance for home energy costs and your household's annual income before taxes must not exceed $27,876 if one person lives
in the household; $36,454 if two people live in the household; $45,031 if three people live in the household; $53,608 if four people live
in the household; $62,186 if five people live in the household; $70,763 if six people live in the household; $72,371 if seven people live
in the household; $73,979 if eight people live in the household; and $75,587 if more than eight people live in the household. For larger
households, add $1,608 for each additional person in the home.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
If you are a first-time applicant, you'll need to apply in person at the fuel assistance agency in your area. Click here to locate your
fuel assistance agency:
http://app1.ocd.state.ma.us/fuel/
Households must apply each year; applications are mailed to households after the first year. Households can apply from November
1st to April 30th of the program year. Application and supporting materials can be found here, under "How to Apply":
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ehedterminal%26L=3&L0=Home%26L1=Communi...
Program Contact Information
For more information on Massachusetts LIHEAP, please visit:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ehedterminal&L=3%26L0=Home%26L1=Community+Devel...
To speak with a representative regarding LIHEAP, please call the Massachusetts Cold Relief Energy Assistance Program Heat Line:
800-632-8175
To write it to the Massachusetts LIHEAP, please contact:
Massachusetts Department of Housing & Community Development
Division of Neighborhood Services
Bureau of Energy Programs
100 Cambridge Street,Suite 300
Boston, MA 02114
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
*******************************************
Program Description
There are some basic rules for getting MassHealth. Even if you or your family already have health insurance, you may be eligible if
your family's income is low or medium; and you are a parent living with your children under age 19; or you are an adult caretaker
relative living with children under age 19 to whom you are related by blood, adoption, or marriage, or are a spouse or former spouse
of one of those relatives, and you are the primary caretaker of these children when neither parent is living in the home; or you are
under age 19, whether or not you live with your family; or you are pregnant, with or without children; or you have been out of work
for a long time; or you are disabled; or you are HIV positive.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, under 19 years of age, not
covered by health insurance (including Medicaid), a US national, citizen, legal alien, or permanent resident, and you must have an
annual household income before taxes of less than $29,140 if two people live in the household; $36,620 if three people live in the
household; $44,100 if four people live in the household; $51,580 if five people live in the household; $59,060 if six people live in the
household; $66,540 if seven people live in the household; $74,020 if eight people live in the household; and $81,500 if more than
eight people live in the household. For larger households, add $7,480 for each additional person in the home. Depending on your
income level, you may have to pay a premium for coverage. Please see this state's program information for details.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
For application information and instructions, visit:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2terminal&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Consumer&L2=...
Program Contact Information
For more information, visit:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2subtopic%26L=5%26L0=Home%26L1=Consumer%26...
Or call:
888-665-9993
TTY available toll-free at:
888-665-9997
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
********************************************
Program Description
The WIC Program provides supplemental foods, nutrition education and referrals to health care, at no cost, to low-income pregnant,
breastfeeding and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are determined to be at nutritional risk. To be fully
eligible for the WIC Program, applicants must be determined by a health professional, at no cost, to be at nutritional risk (i.e., have
certain medical-based or diet-based risk conditions).
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, pregnant, breastfeeding and
postpartum woman, infant or child up to 5 years of age and: (1) are individually determined by a health professional to be at nutrition
risk; and, (2) meet an income standard, or are determined automatically income eligible. A person who participates or has family
members who participate in certain other benefit programs, such as the Food Stamp Program, Medicaid or Temporary Assistance
for Needy Families, automatically meets the income eligibility requirement.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
To apply for WIC, call 1-800-WIC-1007 (1-800-942-1007).
Program Contact Information
Please see the following Web Site for the income standard or maximum income limit for WIC eligibility:
http://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/howtoapply/incomeguidelines.htm
For more information on Massachusetts WIC or to locate your local WIC provider, please visit the Massachusetts Center for
Community Health (CCH) at:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2terminal%26L=5%26L0=Home%26L1=Government%...
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
******************************************
Program Description
The Special Milk Program (SMP) provides milk to children in schools and childcare institutions that do not participate in other
Federal child nutrition meal service programs. The program reimburses schools for the milk they serve.
Schools in the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs may also participate in the SMP to provide milk to children in
half-day pre-kindergarten and kindergarten programs where children do not have access to the school meal programs.
The Special Milk Program began in 1955 and is administered at the Federal level by the U.S. Department of Agriculture through its
Food and Nutrition Service, formerly the Food and Consumer Service.
General Program Requirements
Any child in a school or institution that participates in the Special Milk Program can get milk. Schools may elect to offer free milk to
low-income children. In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, your
household's annual income before taxes must not exceed $20,036 if one person lives in the household; $26,955 if two people live in
the household; $33,874 if three people live in the household; $40,793 if four people live in the household; $47,712 if five people live in
the household; $54,631 if six people live in the household; $61,550 if seven people live in the household; and $68,469 if eight people
live in the household. For larger households, add $6,919 for each additional person in the home.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
To apply for the Special Milk program, directly contact your child’s school, camp, or child care institution to find out if it participates
in the Special Milk Program.
The Federal agency Child Nutrition Programs manages this program and provides state contact information here:
http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/Contacts/StateDirectory.htm
Additionally, your state education agency can also provide you with more information about the program:
http://www.doe.mass.edu/cnp/nprograms/milk.html
Program Contact Information
For more information visit:
http://www.doe.mass.edu/
Or you may call 781-338-6479.
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
***********************************************
Program Description
The Head Start program (for children ages 3-5) and Early Head Start program (for pregnant women, infants, and toddlers) promote
school readiness for children in low-income families by providing comprehensive educational, health, nutritional, and social
services. Parents play a large role in the programs, both as primary educators of their children and as participants in administering
the programs locally. Both programs provide pre-literacy and literacy experiences in a multi-cultural environment. Parents are also
provided social services, including assistance with childcare. Services are also available to migrant and seasonal farm worker
families.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, you must be a parent or primary
caregiver responsible for a child who is too young for public school and your household's annual income before taxes must not
exceed $10,830 if one person lives in the household; $14,570 if two people live in the household; $18,310 if three people live in the
household; $22,050 if four people live in the household; $25,790 if five people live in the household; $29,530 if six people live in the
household; $33,270 if seven people live in the household; $37,010 if eight people live in the household; and $40,750 if more than
eight people live in the household. For larger households, add $3,740 for each additional person in the home
If you do not meet these criteria, you may still qualify if you are a U.S. national, citizen or permanent resident whose financial status
is low income or very low income, who is under-employed, unemployed or about to become unemployed, facing pregnancy, less
than 19 years of age yourself, or the parent or primary caregiver for children under the age of 19 years. Other qualifications may
apply.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
For enrollment information, contact the program nearest you:
http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/HeadStartOffices
Program Contact Information
For more information on this program, send an email to:
info@massheadstart.org
You may also contact the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care by calling at:
617-988-6600
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
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The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) for low-income households includes the installation of weather stripping, caulking,
storm windows, insulation, and other materials as well as burner testing, tune-up, and minor repairs. Funds are provided by the U.S.
Department of Energy and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, your household's annual income
before taxes must not exceed $27,876 if one person lives in the household; $36,454 if two people live in the household; $45,031 if
three people live in the household; $53,608 if four people live in the household; $62,186 if five people live in the household; $70,763 if
six people live in the household; $72,371 if seven people live in the household; and $73,979 if eight people live in the household. For
larger households, add $1,608 for each additional person in the home.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
The application for the Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP) also serves as the application for the Weatherization Assistance
Program; it must be completed at the Fuel Assistance Agency Service Locator, found here:
http://app1.ocd.state.ma.us/fuel/
You may contact the HEATLINE at 1-800-632-8175 to learn where to apply. Please call ahead for an appointment to fill out the
application with an intake worker. Households will be required to verify their income, household characteristics, and address.
Program Contact Information
For more information on the program please visit:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ehedterminal%26L=3%26L0=Home%26L1=Community+Dev...
For additional information about Weatherization please call the Massachusetts HEATLINE toll-free at:
800-632-8175
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
*************************************************************
Massachusetts Unemployment Insurance
Subscribe to Massachusetts Unemployment Insurance e-mail updates
Program Description
Unemployment insurance benefits provide temporary financial assistance to workers unemployed through no fault of their own that
meet Massachusetts' eligibility requirements.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must have worked in Massachusetts during the past 12 to 18 months, and have
earned at least a minimum amount of wages as determined by our guidelines. You must also be able to work and available for work
each week that you are collecting benefits.
Application Process
For more information, see the Program Contact Information below.
Program Contact Information
In order to establish your unemployment insurance claim, you may call the TeleClaim Center at:
877-626-6800
if you are calling from the following area codes: 351, 413, 508, 774, and 978.
Call the TeleClaim Center at:
617-626-6800
if you are calling from any other area code.
You may also file in person at your local UI Walk-in Centers. To locate a center nearest you, please visit:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=elwdterminal&L=3%26L0=Home%26L1=Claimants%26L2=...
For more information on the Massachusetts Division of Employment and Training, please visit our web site at:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=elwdhomepage%26L=1%26L0=Home%26sid=Elwd
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
***********************************************************************
Massachusetts Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and
Children (WIC) Collapse
Program Description
The WIC Program provides supplemental foods, nutrition education and referrals to health care, at no cost, to low-income pregnant,
breastfeeding and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are determined to be at nutritional risk. To be fully
eligible for the WIC Program, applicants must be determined by a health professional, at no cost, to be at nutritional risk (i.e., have
certain medical-based or diet-based risk conditions).
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, pregnant, breastfeeding and
postpartum woman, infant or child up to 5 years of age and: (1) are individually determined by a health professional to be at nutrition
risk; and, (2) meet an income standard, or are determined automatically income eligible. A person who participates or has family
members who participate in certain other benefit programs, such as the Food Stamp Program, Medicaid or Temporary Assistance
for Needy Families, automatically meets the income eligibility requirement.
Application Process
For more information, see the Program Contact Information below.
Program Contact Information
Please see the following Web Site for the income standard or maximum income limit for WIC eligibility:
http://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/howtoapply/incomeguidelines07-08.htm
For more information on Massachusetts WIC or to locate your local WIC provider, please visit the Massachusetts Center for
Community Health (CCH) at:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2terminal&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Government%26L2=D...
If you have questions about the WIC program you can also call the Massachusetts CCH toll-free at:
800-WIC-1007
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
***************************************************
REMEMBER NO MATTER WHAT TOWN, CITY, COUNTY OR STATE SEND US YOUR UPCOMING EVENT
INFORMATION TO BE APPLIED TO YOUR STATE'S PAGE!
BECOME ACTIVE IN YOUR COMMUNITY!
IF YOUR GROUP, ORGANIZATION, OR HOUSE OF WORSHIP HAS ANY ACTIVITIES UPCOMING SUCH AS:
MEALS FOR THE NEEDY, FOOD PANTRIES & BASKET GIVEAWAYS, CLOTHING CLOSETS, BAZAARS,
FLEA MARKETS, CAR WASHES, FREE CLASSES/SEMINARS, FILM FESTIVALS,
FIRST TIME HOME PURCHASER SEMINARS, STATE FAIRS....EVEYTHING!!!!
PLEASE CONTACT ME BY EMAIL: homelesstoindependence@yahoo.com
DISCLAIMER
JUST A SHORT NOTE TO STATE THAT THE PURPOSE OF THIS PUBLICATION IS TO PASS
PRECIOUS INFORMATION ON TO THOSE OF NEED. OCCASIONALLY, THERE WILL BE
ARTICLES BY OTHER WRITERS. I MAY NOT NECESSARILY AGREE WITH THEIR
VIEWPOINTS, HOWEVER, I DO RESPECT THEM. THANK YOU
Works to increase job opportunities for youth and adults with disabilities in Massachusetts. Individuals and families can explore job
and career options. Employers can find information they need to hire, train, manage, accommodate and promote people with
disabilities within their workforces.
For more information visit this link: http://www.disability.gov/state/massachusetts/employment
***************************************************
Program Description
Food stamps began in the United States in the late 1930's to help people buy and eat nutritious food, be stronger, and make up a
more productive society. In 1971, the Food Stamp Program became a nationwide entitlement program. That means that as long as
you meet the rules for food stamps, you have a legal right to get them. Eligibility for food stamp benefits depends on the number of
people in your household and how much income you have. To get food stamp benefits, households must meet certain tests,
including resource (assets) and income tests.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts and fall into one of two groups: (1)
those with a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $2,001, or (2) those with a current bank balance
(savings and checking combined) under $3,001 who share their household with a person or persons age 60 and over, or with a
person with a disability (a child, your spouse, a parent, or yourself). For either group, you must also have an annual household
income of less than $20,420 if one person lives in the household; $27,380 if two people live in the household; $34,340 if three people
live in the household; $41,300 if four people live in the household; $48,260, if five people live in the household; $55,220 if six people
live in the household; $62,180 if seven people live in the household; or $69,140 if more than seven people live in the household.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
For more information, see the Program Contact Information below.
Program Contact Information
To apply for food stamp benefits in Massachusetts, you may:
Complete the application and either mail, fax or drop it off at the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) Office that serves
your city or town.
Or ask that an application be mailed to you by calling:
800-249-2007
Or go to your local DTA office that serves your city or town. To find your local DTA office, visit our website at:
http://www.state.ma.us/dta/assist/location/index.htm
If a member of your household is an elderly (age 60 or over) and/or disabled person, special rules apply in order to receive Food
Stamps in Massachusetts. For more information, please contact the Department of Transitional Assistance at:
800-249-2007
To apply online or to print out an application, go to:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2modulechunk%26L=4%26L0=Home%26L1=Governme...
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
*****************************************
Program Description
The School Breakfast Program provides funding that makes it possible for schools to offer a nutritious breakfast to students each
day. Schools receive Federal funds for each breakfast served, provided that the meal meets established nutrition standards. The
State of Massachusetts provides additional funds to schools for each meal served to children who qualify for free or reduced-price
meals.
The goal of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is to protect the health and well-being of the nation's children by providing
nutritious school meals every day. NSLP provides funding that makes it possible for schools to offer a nutritious school lunch.
Schools receive Federal funds for each lunch served, provided that the meal meets established nutrition standards. The Federal
government and the State of Massachusetts provide additional funds to schools for each meal served to children who qualify,
because of family income, for free or reduced-price meals.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts and a parent or primary caregiver
responsible for a child(ren) who attends school (high school or under). Those who qualify must also have an annual household
income before taxes that must not exceed $26,955 if two people live in the household; $33,874 if three people live in the household;
$40,793 if four people live in the household; $47,712 if five people live in the household; $54,631 if six people live in the household;
$61,550 if seven people live in the household; and $68,469 if eight people live in the household. For larger households, add $6,919 for
each additional person in the home.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
To apply for free or reduced price meals, contact your child's school. A listing of your state's schools can be found here:
http://profiles.doe.mass.edu/search/search.aspx
Program Contact Information
For additional information about the programs, please visit the Massachusetts Child Nutrition office at:
http://www.doe.mass.edu/cnp/nprograms/
If you have further questions on this initiative, please contact the Massachusetts Child Nutrition Programs office regarding the
programs.
781-338-6479
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
****************************************
Program Description
The Massachusetts Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) (Fuel Assistance) provides eligible households with
help in paying winter heating bills. The program pays benefits of fixed amounts based on household income. An additional benefit is
available to eligible households having a high-energy burden. Local administering agencies determine household eligibility based on
annualized income and the number of members in the household. The agency then will make payments towards the heating bills to
the primary heat source vendor (oil, propane, wood or coal dealer, or gas or electric utility). Special provisions are made for those
households whose heat is included in their rent and those living in subsidized housing.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the state of Massachusetts, you must need financial
assistance for home energy costs and your household's annual income before taxes must not exceed $27,876 if one person lives
in the household; $36,454 if two people live in the household; $45,031 if three people live in the household; $53,608 if four people live
in the household; $62,186 if five people live in the household; $70,763 if six people live in the household; $72,371 if seven people live
in the household; $73,979 if eight people live in the household; and $75,587 if more than eight people live in the household. For larger
households, add $1,608 for each additional person in the home.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
If you are a first-time applicant, you'll need to apply in person at the fuel assistance agency in your area. Click here to locate your
fuel assistance agency:
http://app1.ocd.state.ma.us/fuel/
Households must apply each year; applications are mailed to households after the first year. Households can apply from November
1st to April 30th of the program year. Application and supporting materials can be found here, under "How to Apply":
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ehedterminal%26L=3&L0=Home%26L1=Communi...
Program Contact Information
For more information on Massachusetts LIHEAP, please visit:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ehedterminal&L=3%26L0=Home%26L1=Community+Devel...
To speak with a representative regarding LIHEAP, please call the Massachusetts Cold Relief Energy Assistance Program Heat Line:
800-632-8175
To write it to the Massachusetts LIHEAP, please contact:
Massachusetts Department of Housing & Community Development
Division of Neighborhood Services
Bureau of Energy Programs
100 Cambridge Street,Suite 300
Boston, MA 02114
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
*******************************************
Program Description
There are some basic rules for getting MassHealth. Even if you or your family already have health insurance, you may be eligible if
your family's income is low or medium; and you are a parent living with your children under age 19; or you are an adult caretaker
relative living with children under age 19 to whom you are related by blood, adoption, or marriage, or are a spouse or former spouse
of one of those relatives, and you are the primary caretaker of these children when neither parent is living in the home; or you are
under age 19, whether or not you live with your family; or you are pregnant, with or without children; or you have been out of work
for a long time; or you are disabled; or you are HIV positive.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, under 19 years of age, not
covered by health insurance (including Medicaid), a US national, citizen, legal alien, or permanent resident, and you must have an
annual household income before taxes of less than $29,140 if two people live in the household; $36,620 if three people live in the
household; $44,100 if four people live in the household; $51,580 if five people live in the household; $59,060 if six people live in the
household; $66,540 if seven people live in the household; $74,020 if eight people live in the household; and $81,500 if more than
eight people live in the household. For larger households, add $7,480 for each additional person in the home. Depending on your
income level, you may have to pay a premium for coverage. Please see this state's program information for details.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
For application information and instructions, visit:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2terminal&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Consumer&L2=...
Program Contact Information
For more information, visit:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2subtopic%26L=5%26L0=Home%26L1=Consumer%26...
Or call:
888-665-9993
TTY available toll-free at:
888-665-9997
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
********************************************
Program Description
The WIC Program provides supplemental foods, nutrition education and referrals to health care, at no cost, to low-income pregnant,
breastfeeding and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are determined to be at nutritional risk. To be fully
eligible for the WIC Program, applicants must be determined by a health professional, at no cost, to be at nutritional risk (i.e., have
certain medical-based or diet-based risk conditions).
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, pregnant, breastfeeding and
postpartum woman, infant or child up to 5 years of age and: (1) are individually determined by a health professional to be at nutrition
risk; and, (2) meet an income standard, or are determined automatically income eligible. A person who participates or has family
members who participate in certain other benefit programs, such as the Food Stamp Program, Medicaid or Temporary Assistance
for Needy Families, automatically meets the income eligibility requirement.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
To apply for WIC, call 1-800-WIC-1007 (1-800-942-1007).
Program Contact Information
Please see the following Web Site for the income standard or maximum income limit for WIC eligibility:
http://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/howtoapply/incomeguidelines.htm
For more information on Massachusetts WIC or to locate your local WIC provider, please visit the Massachusetts Center for
Community Health (CCH) at:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2terminal%26L=5%26L0=Home%26L1=Government%...
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
******************************************
Program Description
The Special Milk Program (SMP) provides milk to children in schools and childcare institutions that do not participate in other
Federal child nutrition meal service programs. The program reimburses schools for the milk they serve.
Schools in the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs may also participate in the SMP to provide milk to children in
half-day pre-kindergarten and kindergarten programs where children do not have access to the school meal programs.
The Special Milk Program began in 1955 and is administered at the Federal level by the U.S. Department of Agriculture through its
Food and Nutrition Service, formerly the Food and Consumer Service.
General Program Requirements
Any child in a school or institution that participates in the Special Milk Program can get milk. Schools may elect to offer free milk to
low-income children. In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, your
household's annual income before taxes must not exceed $20,036 if one person lives in the household; $26,955 if two people live in
the household; $33,874 if three people live in the household; $40,793 if four people live in the household; $47,712 if five people live in
the household; $54,631 if six people live in the household; $61,550 if seven people live in the household; and $68,469 if eight people
live in the household. For larger households, add $6,919 for each additional person in the home.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
To apply for the Special Milk program, directly contact your child’s school, camp, or child care institution to find out if it participates
in the Special Milk Program.
The Federal agency Child Nutrition Programs manages this program and provides state contact information here:
http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/Contacts/StateDirectory.htm
Additionally, your state education agency can also provide you with more information about the program:
http://www.doe.mass.edu/cnp/nprograms/milk.html
Program Contact Information
For more information visit:
http://www.doe.mass.edu/
Or you may call 781-338-6479.
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
***********************************************
Program Description
The Head Start program (for children ages 3-5) and Early Head Start program (for pregnant women, infants, and toddlers) promote
school readiness for children in low-income families by providing comprehensive educational, health, nutritional, and social
services. Parents play a large role in the programs, both as primary educators of their children and as participants in administering
the programs locally. Both programs provide pre-literacy and literacy experiences in a multi-cultural environment. Parents are also
provided social services, including assistance with childcare. Services are also available to migrant and seasonal farm worker
families.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, you must be a parent or primary
caregiver responsible for a child who is too young for public school and your household's annual income before taxes must not
exceed $10,830 if one person lives in the household; $14,570 if two people live in the household; $18,310 if three people live in the
household; $22,050 if four people live in the household; $25,790 if five people live in the household; $29,530 if six people live in the
household; $33,270 if seven people live in the household; $37,010 if eight people live in the household; and $40,750 if more than
eight people live in the household. For larger households, add $3,740 for each additional person in the home
If you do not meet these criteria, you may still qualify if you are a U.S. national, citizen or permanent resident whose financial status
is low income or very low income, who is under-employed, unemployed or about to become unemployed, facing pregnancy, less
than 19 years of age yourself, or the parent or primary caregiver for children under the age of 19 years. Other qualifications may
apply.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
For enrollment information, contact the program nearest you:
http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/HeadStartOffices
Program Contact Information
For more information on this program, send an email to:
info@massheadstart.org
You may also contact the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care by calling at:
617-988-6600
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
***************************************************************
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) for low-income households includes the installation of weather stripping, caulking,
storm windows, insulation, and other materials as well as burner testing, tune-up, and minor repairs. Funds are provided by the U.S.
Department of Energy and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, your household's annual income
before taxes must not exceed $27,876 if one person lives in the household; $36,454 if two people live in the household; $45,031 if
three people live in the household; $53,608 if four people live in the household; $62,186 if five people live in the household; $70,763 if
six people live in the household; $72,371 if seven people live in the household; and $73,979 if eight people live in the household. For
larger households, add $1,608 for each additional person in the home.
Your Next StepsThe following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
The application for the Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP) also serves as the application for the Weatherization Assistance
Program; it must be completed at the Fuel Assistance Agency Service Locator, found here:
http://app1.ocd.state.ma.us/fuel/
You may contact the HEATLINE at 1-800-632-8175 to learn where to apply. Please call ahead for an appointment to fill out the
application with an intake worker. Households will be required to verify their income, household characteristics, and address.
Program Contact Information
For more information on the program please visit:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ehedterminal%26L=3%26L0=Home%26L1=Community+Dev...
For additional information about Weatherization please call the Massachusetts HEATLINE toll-free at:
800-632-8175
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
*************************************************************
Massachusetts Unemployment Insurance
Subscribe to Massachusetts Unemployment Insurance e-mail updates
Program Description
Unemployment insurance benefits provide temporary financial assistance to workers unemployed through no fault of their own that
meet Massachusetts' eligibility requirements.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must have worked in Massachusetts during the past 12 to 18 months, and have
earned at least a minimum amount of wages as determined by our guidelines. You must also be able to work and available for work
each week that you are collecting benefits.
Application Process
For more information, see the Program Contact Information below.
Program Contact Information
In order to establish your unemployment insurance claim, you may call the TeleClaim Center at:
877-626-6800
if you are calling from the following area codes: 351, 413, 508, 774, and 978.
Call the TeleClaim Center at:
617-626-6800
if you are calling from any other area code.
You may also file in person at your local UI Walk-in Centers. To locate a center nearest you, please visit:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=elwdterminal&L=3%26L0=Home%26L1=Claimants%26L2=...
For more information on the Massachusetts Division of Employment and Training, please visit our web site at:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=elwdhomepage%26L=1%26L0=Home%26sid=Elwd
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
***********************************************************************
Massachusetts Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and
Children (WIC) Collapse
Program Description
The WIC Program provides supplemental foods, nutrition education and referrals to health care, at no cost, to low-income pregnant,
breastfeeding and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are determined to be at nutritional risk. To be fully
eligible for the WIC Program, applicants must be determined by a health professional, at no cost, to be at nutritional risk (i.e., have
certain medical-based or diet-based risk conditions).
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Massachusetts, pregnant, breastfeeding and
postpartum woman, infant or child up to 5 years of age and: (1) are individually determined by a health professional to be at nutrition
risk; and, (2) meet an income standard, or are determined automatically income eligible. A person who participates or has family
members who participate in certain other benefit programs, such as the Food Stamp Program, Medicaid or Temporary Assistance
for Needy Families, automatically meets the income eligibility requirement.
Application Process
For more information, see the Program Contact Information below.
Program Contact Information
Please see the following Web Site for the income standard or maximum income limit for WIC eligibility:
http://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/howtoapply/incomeguidelines07-08.htm
For more information on Massachusetts WIC or to locate your local WIC provider, please visit the Massachusetts Center for
Community Health (CCH) at:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eohhs2terminal&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Government%26L2=D...
If you have questions about the WIC program you can also call the Massachusetts CCH toll-free at:
800-WIC-1007
Managing Agency
Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov
***************************************************
REMEMBER NO MATTER WHAT TOWN, CITY, COUNTY OR STATE SEND US YOUR UPCOMING EVENT
INFORMATION TO BE APPLIED TO YOUR STATE'S PAGE!
BECOME ACTIVE IN YOUR COMMUNITY!
IF YOUR GROUP, ORGANIZATION, OR HOUSE OF WORSHIP HAS ANY ACTIVITIES UPCOMING SUCH AS:
MEALS FOR THE NEEDY, FOOD PANTRIES & BASKET GIVEAWAYS, CLOTHING CLOSETS, BAZAARS,
FLEA MARKETS, CAR WASHES, FREE CLASSES/SEMINARS, FILM FESTIVALS,
FIRST TIME HOME PURCHASER SEMINARS, STATE FAIRS....EVEYTHING!!!!
PLEASE CONTACT ME BY EMAIL: homelesstoindependence@yahoo.com
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