Community Support for Single Mothers in Massachusetts

Massachusetts Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This is your practical, no‑fluff hub for nonprofit, church, and community help across Massachusetts. It skips federal and state benefit programs and focuses on real, on‑the‑ground organizations that can help with rent and eviction defense, food, energy bills, diapers, baby gear, furniture, legal help, and safety planning.

We verify every organization and phone number against official sources and established nonprofits per our Editorial Standards. Amounts and rules change; always confirm before you apply.

Read our Editorial Standards

Quick Help Box (save these now)

Emergency or danger now? Call 911. For confidential domestic violence help statewide, call SafeLink at 877‑785‑2020 (24/7, many languages). (casamyrna.org)
Out of food or not sure where to go? Project Bread FoodSource Hotline: 1‑800‑645‑8333 (Mon–Fri 8am‑7pm; Sat 10am‑2pm; 180 languages). They can find nearby pantries/meals and help with SNAP applications if you choose. (projectbread.org)
Can’t pay your energy bill this month and don’t qualify for LIHEAP? Salvation Army Good Neighbor Energy Fund (one‑time grant; income 60–80% of state median): 800‑334‑3047 (508/617/781/978) or 800‑262‑1320 (413). Typical max grant this past season: $400. (eversource.com, unitil.com)
Facing eviction or court? HomeStart Eviction Prevention Hotline (Greater Boston): 857‑415‑2900. They negotiate with landlords and may help with back rent when funding is available. (homestart.org)
Need a live person to guide you to local help anywhere in MA? Mass 2‑1‑1: dial 211 or 877‑211‑6277 (24/7). (mass211.org, mass.gov)

Emergency First Steps (don’t scroll past this)

If you’re in immediate danger, call 911.
For domestic or dating violence, call SafeLink at 877‑785‑2020 (24/7). Advocates can safety‑plan, locate shelter openings, and connect you to local programs. Deaf/Hard of Hearing can use Mass Relay by dialing 711 and asking for SafeLink. (casamyrna.org)
Homeless tonight with children or pregnant? Call Massachusetts Emergency Family Shelter line at 866‑584‑0653 (weekdays). Note: the state is changing shelter operations and phasing out hotel placements; expect screening and waitlists. Community charities below can help with diversion and short‑term safety. (mass.gov)
Hungry now? Find the closest pantry/meal site by calling Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline: 1‑800‑645‑8333. They’ll give you nearby open hours in your language. (projectbread.org)
Utility shut‑off notice and you’re over income for LIHEAP? Call the Good Neighbor Energy Fund at 800‑334‑3047 or 800‑262‑1320 (see details below). (eversource.com)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Rent/eviction help (charity side):
- HomeStart Eviction Prevention Hotline 857‑415‑2900 (Greater Boston). (homestart.org)
- Catholic Charities Boston “Living Assistance” – fuel, rent, utilities (funding varies). Call the closest office (e.g., Dorchester Yawkey Center 617‑506‑6600; Brockton 508‑587‑0815; Lynn 781‑593‑2312; Lowell 978‑452‑1421). (ccab.org)
- Family Promise (prevention/diversion for families with kids): Metrowest office 508‑318‑4820; North Shore online intake (waitlist common). (familypromisemetrowest.org, familypromisensb.org)
Utilities/heat:
- Salvation Army Good Neighbor Energy Fund grants (one‑time): 800‑334‑3047 (508/617/781/978) or 800‑262‑1320 (413). Typical seasonal max: $400. (unitil.com)
- Citizens Energy “Joe‑4‑Oil” Oil Heat Program: one‑time 100 gallons (if open this season). Apply by phone 1‑877‑563‑4645. (mass.gov, cominghomeworcester.org)
Food today (women‑focused options):
- Rosie’s Place (Boston South End): three meals daily and weekly food pantry; Advocacy helpline 617‑318‑0237. Pantry serves ~350 households/day. (rosiesplace.org)
- Women’s Lunch Place (Back Bay): daytime shelter with breakfast (8–10:30am) and lunch (12–2pm) Mon–Sat; main line 617‑267‑1722. (womenslunchplace.org)
- Project Bread FoodSource Hotline: 1‑800‑645‑8333 (statewide referrals). (projectbread.org)
Baby/children’s essentials:
- Cradles to Crayons (KidPacks, clothing, shoes, school supplies distributed via partner agencies; annual backpack drives). (cradlestocrayons.org)
- A Baby Center (Hyannis/Cape & Islands): diapers, wipes, formula, layettes; phone 508‑771‑8157. (ababycenter.org, ababycenter.org)
- Room to Grow (Boston): free baby/toddler items plus coaching for expecting/0‑3 families; Boston phone 617‑859‑4545. (roomtogrow.org)
Furniture/household basics:
- Household Goods (Acton) – furniture/housewares by referral; phone 978‑635‑1710. (householdgoods.org)
- My Brother’s Keeper (South Shore & South Coast delivery): Easton 508‑238‑4416; Dartmouth 774‑305‑4590. (mybrotherskeeper.org)
- The Wish Project (Lowell area): clothes/diapers every 3 months; referrals for household items. (thewishproject.org)
Legal help (free civil):
- Greater Boston Legal Services intake 617‑371‑1234 (eviction, family law, benefits; language access). (gbls.org)
- Community Legal Aid (Central/Western MA) 855‑252‑5342 (TTY 508‑755‑3260). (communitylegal.org)
Veterans (women with kids too):
- Veterans Inc. (Worcester HQ) Women & Children’s Program; 24/7 line 800‑482‑2565. Can assist with rent, utilities, deposits, childcare, employment supports when eligible. (veteransinc.org)

How Massachusetts Charities Fill Common Gaps

Many families don’t fit neatly into government program boxes. The groups below can step in quickly, especially when you:

earn a bit too much for public programs but can’t cover a crisis bill,
need women‑centered spaces, or
need immediate, practical help (food tonight, diapers this week, a bed this month).

We verified all details and linked directly to official pages so you don’t waste time clicking around.

Energy and Utility Help (Charities & Nonprofits)

Start here if you received a shut‑off notice or your deliverable fuel tank is close to empty and you don’t qualify for LIHEAP.

Salvation Army Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF)

What it is: A one‑time grant paid to your energy vendor if you’re in a temporary crisis and your household income is between 60% and 80% of Massachusetts State Median Income (SMI). This fund is specifically for residents who don’t qualify for state/federal fuel assistance. Typical seasonal maximum has been $400. (eversource.com, unitil.com)
Who qualifies (FY2024‑25 examples): 4‑person household annual income $87, 294-$ 116,392; 2‑person $64, 334-$ 85,777. (Income ranges are updated each season—check when you apply.) (sheld.org)
How to apply: Call 800‑334‑3047 (area codes 508/617/781/978) or 800‑262‑1320 (413), or contact your local Salvation Army Corps Community Center. (eversource.com)
Typical timeline: Same‑week to ~2 weeks depending on documentation and local workload. Funds are limited mid‑ to late‑season.
Required documents (have these ready): photo ID, proof of income for all adults, most recent bill or delivery ticket (30 days), and a brief note about the temporary hardship.
Reality check: This is a one‑time grant and not a monthly payment plan. If you expect ongoing high bills, pair this with a utility hardship plan or arrearage management through your utility.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about church‑run “Service Units” in your town (Salvation Army volunteer committees with small emergency funds), and call Mass 2‑1‑1 (211) to check for town fuel banks. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org, mass211.org)

Citizens Energy “Joe‑4‑Oil” (Oil Heat Program)

What it is: A one‑time delivery of 100 gallons of heating oil for households with a financial hardship. No immigration/citizenship requirement. Availability can vary by season. Apply by phone only: 1‑877‑JOE‑4‑OIL (1‑877‑563‑4645). (cominghomeworcester.org)
Timeline: When the program launches for the season, approvals and delivery scheduling may take 1–2 weeks depending on volume.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your oil vendor about hardship/discount programs and call 211 for local town fuel banks and church funds. (mass211.org)

Utility & Energy Help — At‑a‑Glance

Program	Who it helps	Benefit level	Key rules	Apply
Salvation Army Good Neighbor Energy Fund	Households with income 60–80% SMI who don’t qualify for LIHEAP	One‑time grant (recent season up to $400) paid to vendor	Proof of income, recent bill, temporary crisis	Call 800‑334‑3047 (508/617/781/978) or 800‑262‑1320 (413)
Citizens Energy “Joe‑4‑Oil”	Oil‑heated homes in hardship	One‑time 100 gallons delivery	Phone application only	Call 1‑877‑563‑4645

Pro tip: If a Good Neighbor grant is approved, ask your utility about additional arrearage management or hardship protections to prevent another crisis later this winter.

Food, Groceries, and Women‑Centered Meal Sites

Hunger spiked in Massachusetts. Rosie’s Place reports its pantry now serves about 350 households daily, and its kitchen served 152,000 meals in the last reported year—evidence of real need. (rosiesplace.org)

Statewide navigation

Project Bread FoodSource Hotline: 1‑800‑645‑8333 (180 languages; Mon–Fri 8–7, Sat 10–2). They’ll give you same‑day pantry and meal locations, and can help you apply for SNAP if you choose. (projectbread.org)

Women‑centered programs in Greater Boston

Rosie’s Place (South End):
- Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner daily (with different weekend schedule).
- Pantry: weekly shopping; about 350 households/day.
- Advocacy Helpline: 617‑318‑0237.
- Address: 889–887 Harrison Ave, Boston. (rosiesplace.org)
Women’s Lunch Place (Back Bay):
- Hours: Mon–Sat 7am–2pm; breakfast 8–10:30am; lunch 12–2pm.
- Support: advocacy, wellness services, hygiene items, mail access.
- Address: 67 Newbury St., Boston. Main line 617‑267‑1722. (womenslunchplace.org)
Jewish Family & Children’s Service “Family Table” (Greater Boston/North Shore/South Area):
- Kosher pantry serving nearly 700 families/month; monthly grocery distributions, plus hygiene items.
- Client line 781‑693‑5593. (jfcsboston.org)
Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB): use their locator to find a pantry near you (many don’t require income proof). (gbfb.org)

Food Help — At‑a‑Glance

Provider	What you get	Frequency	How to access
Project Bread FoodSource Hotline	Live help finding pantries/meals; SNAP screening	As needed	Call 1‑800‑645‑8333 (free, confidential)
Rosie’s Place	3 meals/day; weekly pantry; advocacy	Meals daily; pantry weekly	Call 617‑318‑0237 or visit 889–887 Harrison Ave, Boston
Women’s Lunch Place	Breakfast & lunch Mon–Sat; advocacy & wellness	Mon–Sat	Visit 67 Newbury St., Boston; info 617‑267‑1722
JF&CS Family Table	Monthly groceries (incl. produce, kosher items)	Monthly	Call 781‑693‑5593 (multiple towns)

Reality check: Pantries set their own rules—some ask for town residency or allow 1–2 visits per month. Always bring an ID and reusable bags.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 to check smaller town pantries or church food closets that may not appear online. (mass211.org)

Rent, Eviction Prevention, and Housing Stability (Charity‑Run)

This section avoids state vouchers and focuses on nonprofit help that can respond faster or work alongside court timelines.

HomeStart (Greater Boston) — Eviction Prevention Hotline

What they do: Negotiate with landlords and housing courts, set up payment plans, and when funding is available, pay part of back rent directly to the landlord to stop nonpayment evictions; then follow up for 12 months. Eviction Prevention Hotline: 857‑415‑2900. (homestart.org)
Eligibility: Must be at risk of eviction for nonpayment in Greater Boston; funding and capacity vary; immigration status does not bar service.
Timeline: Same‑week triage if you have a Notice to Quit or court date; documentation speeds things up.
Documents: Photo ID, lease, ledger/statement showing arrears, court papers, proof of income/hardship.
Reality check: There is no fixed dollar amount published for client assistance—funds are flexible, tied to case negotiations, and change with donations and private funds.
Plan B: Call your city’s Office of Housing Stability (Boston 617‑635‑4200) for legal clinic and mediation referrals, and ask about nonprofit partners if HomeStart is full. (boston.gov, search.boston.gov)

Catholic Charities Boston — “Living Assistance” (fuel, rent, utilities)

What they do: Emergency fuel, rental, and utility assistance for families in crisis (funding cycles vary by location). Priority to families with shut‑off notices, court summons, or safety‑related moves. (ccab.org)
How to apply: Call the Basic Needs line at the closest site (examples: Dorchester/Yawkey 617‑506‑6600; Lynn 781‑593‑2312; Lowell 978‑452‑1421; Brockton 508‑587‑0815). A case manager does a pre‑screen and explains documents needed. (ccab.org)
Reality check: Assistance isn’t guaranteed—funding opens and closes by county.
Plan B: If they’re out of funds, ask for other parish‑based help (e.g., Society of St. Vincent de Paul) and a written list of community referrals so you can keep calling the same day. (svdpusa.org)

Family Promise (Prevention & Diversion for Families with Children)

What they do: Short‑term, flexible emergency financial help (for rent arrears, deposits, or diversion), landlord mediation, and case management to keep families out of shelter.
- Family Promise Metrowest LIFE Program: must have at least one child under 18, at least one employed adult, and be able to sustain housing after help; call 508‑318‑4820. (familypromisemetrowest.org)
- Family Promise North Shore Boston: prevention/diversion; request assistance via online intake (waitlists common). (familypromisensb.org)
Reality check: Amounts vary by case and available donations; not a monthly rent subsidy.
Plan B: Ask for letters to your landlord showing an active prevention case while you line up additional charity funds.

City Mission Boston (A Lift Up), St. Vincent de Paul (parish‑based aid), and local church funds

Many parishes run small emergency funds. To find St. Vincent de Paul help, contact your local Catholic parish office; examples include helplines in Arlington (781‑648‑0220 x450), Wellesley (781‑235‑0045 / 781‑235‑1060), Newburyport (978‑518‑0728). Response is usually same‑week with a home/phone interview. (svdpcparl.org, sjspwellesley.org, svdpnewburyport.org)
Reality check: Grants are often modest and one‑time; they may pay a utility or part of rent while you assemble a full arrears package.
Plan B: Ask the parish for a referral letter you can carry to other churches or charities.

Rent/Eviction Help — At‑a‑Glance

Organization	What they do	Typical benefit	How to contact
HomeStart (Greater Boston)	Eviction prevention, landlord negotiation, flexible arrears funds when available	Flexible; no published standard amount	Eviction Prevention Hotline 857‑415‑2900
Catholic Charities Boston	Emergency rent/utility/fuel aid when funding available	Case‑by‑case	Call nearest office (e.g., Dorchester 617‑506‑6600, Brockton 508‑587‑0815)
Family Promise (Metrowest / North Shore)	Prevention/diversion; financial help and coaching	Flexible; case‑by‑case	Metrowest 508‑318‑4820; NSB intake form online

Tip: If you have a court date, call legal aid the same day you call charities—representation can buy the time you need to finish assembling funds.

Baby, Kids, and School Essentials

Cradles to Crayons (Boston)

What you get: “KidPacks” tailored to your child (clothing, shoes, outerwear, diapers/wipes, hygiene kits), plus seasonal school supplies (Backpack‑A‑Thon distributed tens of thousands of backpacks—45,000 in August 2025—with plans for 75,000 statewide). Distribution is through partner agencies (shelters, schools, nonprofits). (cradlestocrayons.org)
How to access: Ask your case manager, school social worker, family shelter, or a listed Service Partner to submit a request.
Timeline: 1–3 weeks depending on partner capacity and stock.
Plan B: Ask your school district’s McKinney‑Vento liaison about emergency clothing & backpack resources while the KidPack is pending.

A Baby Center (Hyannis; Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket)

What you get: diapers, wipes, formula, layette bundles, baby hygiene items; some baby gear and car seats via partners. Phone 508‑771‑8157; address 81 Willow Ave (physical), mailing 320 Main St., Hyannis. (ababycenter.org, ababycenter.org)
Eligibility: Serving low‑income parents on the Cape & Islands; bring photo ID and child’s birth certificate.
Frequency: Typically once per month for diapers/wipes (check current schedule). (ababycenter.org)

Room to Grow (Boston)

What you get: For expecting and 0–3 families—free baby/toddler items and individualized coaching on child development and budgeting; Boston phone 617‑859‑4545; South End and Dorchester family centers. (roomtogrow.org)
Eligibility: Expecting families; program offered in English/Spanish; no citizenship requirement. Apply online. (roomtogrow.org)

Diaper banks and local drives

Beantown Baby Diaper Bank distributes to partner agencies in Greater Boston monthly (no direct individual sign‑ups; ask your local agency). Media reports show monthly distributions in the tens of thousands of diapers, reflecting high need. (beantownbabydiaperbank.org, wcvb.com)
Abundant Hope PRC (Attleboro) runs a monthly diaper bank with posted 2025 dates; call 508‑455‑0425. (ahprc.org)

Baby & Kids Essentials — At‑a‑Glance

Organization	Area	What you get	How to access
Cradles to Crayons	Statewide via partners	KidPacks (clothing, shoes, outerwear, hygiene); seasonal backpacks	Request through a Service Partner (school, shelter, nonprofit)
A Baby Center (Hyannis)	Cape & Islands	Diapers, wipes, formula, layettes; some gear	Call 508‑771‑8157; bring ID and child’s birth certificate
Room to Grow (Boston)	Greater Boston	Baby/toddler items + coaching	Apply online; Questions: 617‑859‑4545

Furniture and Household Basics

Setting up a safe home matters. These nonprofits can help furnish an apartment after shelter, a sudden move, or fire.

Household Goods (Acton)

What it is: A large volunteer‑run “furniture bank” providing essential furniture and housewares free of charge by referral from partner agencies across MA. Serves over 3,000 homes/year with ~60,000 items. (householdgoods.org)
How to access: Ask your case manager, school social worker, or legal aid to submit a referral; you must arrange transportation (truck/driver). Phone 978‑635‑1710. (householdgoods.org)
Plan B: If you can’t get a referral, ask a local church or school family liaison to serve as referrer, or try My Brother’s Keeper.

My Brother’s Keeper (South Shore & South Coast)

What it is: Free furniture delivered to your home from Easton and Dartmouth facilities—no pickups; service areas listed on their site. Lines: Easton 508‑238‑4416; Dartmouth 774‑305‑4590. (mybrotherskeeper.org)
Eligibility: You must live within the listed towns; no income interview beyond need verification by phone.

The Wish Project (Greater Lowell)

What it is: Clothing and shoes every 3 months with ID/birth certificates; diapers and wipes every 3 months; referrals through partner agencies for furniture, car seats, and baby gear. (thewishproject.org)

Furniture & Essentials — At‑a‑Glance

Organization	Area	What you get	Access notes
Household Goods	Statewide (pickup in Acton)	Furniture & housewares by referral; you transport	Have your referrer submit; plan truck/driver; 978‑635‑1710
My Brother’s Keeper	South Shore/South Coast	Free furniture delivered	Easton 508‑238‑4416; Dartmouth 774‑305‑4590
The Wish Project	Greater Lowell	Clothes/diapers; referrals for furniture & baby gear	Walk‑in for clothing/diapers; ask partner agency for referral

Women’s Safety, Legal Help, and Specialized Meal Support

Domestic violence & housing safety

SafeLink (Casa Myrna) statewide hotline 877‑785‑2020 (24/7; multilingual). Casa Myrna also provides community advocacy, a legal helpline (617‑521‑0146), and housing advocacy for survivors. (casamyrna.org)
What to bring to a DV‑related housing appointment: any restraining orders, police reports, letters from a DV advocate, and your current lease. Ask about emergency transfers if you’re in subsidized housing. (casamyrna.org)
Plan B: If phone feels unsafe, use Casa Myrna’s webchat (daily 9am–11pm), or visit a local Family Justice Center during the day. (casamyrna.org)

Free legal help

Greater Boston Legal Services (GBLS): intake 617‑371‑1234 (housing, family law, benefits; immigrant‑inclusive). (gbls.org)
Community Legal Aid (Central & Western MA): 855‑252‑5342 (TTY 508‑755‑3260). (communitylegal.org)
Tip: Call early morning; have documents scanned or photographed. Ask if there’s a Housing Court Lawyer for the Day on your hearing date.

Medically tailored meals for illness, pregnancy, or a sick child

Community Servings (MA/RI): free, home‑delivered medically tailored meals for people with serious illness and food insecurity.
- Standard delivery: five days of meals per week.
- Pregnancy Health Program: 15 meals/week (3/day for 5 days).
- Pediatric Health Program: 10 meals/week per child.
- Phone 617‑522‑7777. Waitlist currently long (12+ months for some), but still apply. (servings.org)
Plan B: Ask your clinic social worker for interim meal supports and local mom’s meal trains while you wait.

Safety & Legal — At‑a‑Glance

Need	Organization	Benefit	Contact
DV safety & shelter navigation	Casa Myrna / SafeLink	24/7 hotline, advocacy, legal help	877‑785‑2020; Legal line 617‑521‑0146
Eviction defense & civil legal	GBLS (Greater Boston)	Free intake; housing/family law	617‑371‑1234
Civil legal (Central/Western)	Community Legal Aid	Free intake; multiple issues	855‑252‑5342 (TTY 508‑755‑3260)
Medically tailored meals	Community Servings	5‑day meal packages; special pregnancy/pediatric counts	617‑522‑7777

Diverse Communities: Getting Help That Fits Your Family

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Women‑centered spaces like Rosie’s Place and Women’s Lunch Place welcome all women, including trans women and nonbinary people comfortable in women’s spaces; Casa Myrna services are inclusive and multilingual. Ask for affirming housing advocates if you’ve faced discrimination. (rosiesplace.org, womenslunchplace.org, casamyrna.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Community Servings’ Pediatric and Pregnancy programs tailor meals to medical needs. For home accessibility (non‑grant, but 0% loans), the Home Modification Loan Program offers $1, 000-$ 50,000 no‑interest loans that are repaid at sale—ask your referrer to coordinate with charity help for furnishings. (servings.org, metrohousingboston.org)
Veteran single mothers: Veterans Inc. (Worcester) runs a Women & Children’s Program with transitional housing, case management, and temporary financial assistance; 24/7 line 800‑482‑2565. (veteransinc.org)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: Catholic Charities provides immigrant services alongside Basic Needs support; SafeLink serves callers regardless of immigration status. Room to Grow has no citizenship requirement for Boston families. (ccab.org, casamyrna.org, roomtogrow.org)
Tribal citizens: Call 211 to locate regional Native community organizations and legal clinics; ask legal aid about fee waivers for vital records and custody matters. (mass211.org)
Rural moms (Berkshires, Franklin, Hampshire): Use 211 and your county’s Community Action Agency to find local diaper distributions and church funds; JF&CS Family Table also serves towns outside Boston via distribution hubs, and Veterans Inc. has offices across New England for veterans. (mass211.org, jfcsboston.org, veteransinc.org)
Single fathers: Many of these services are family‑based and serve all parents (Family Promise, HomeStart, Project Bread, Household Goods, My Brother’s Keeper).
Language access: Project Bread hotline supports 180 languages; SafeLink has multilingual advocates; legal aid and most hospitals provide interpreters—say your preferred language at the start of the call. (projectbread.org, casamyrna.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Waiting until the court date or shut‑off day to call. Start as soon as you get a Notice to Quit or a shut‑off warning.
Not having documents ready. Keep photos of your ID, lease, utility bill, pay stubs, and any court papers on your phone.
Assuming a charity will pay the entire bill. Most funds are partial. Ask your landlord for a written payment plan to match charity timing.
Applying to the wrong office. Many programs are regional. Use the phone numbers and links below to find the right site.
Missing language access. If you need an interpreter, say it immediately—Massachusetts hotlines and legal aid can arrange one.

Application Checklist (print this section)

Photo ID for you (and partner if listed on lease)
Proof of address (lease, tenancy‑at‑will letter, or recent bill)
Household income proof (last 30 days of pay stubs or benefit letters)
The actual bill/notice (utility shut‑off, oil delivery ticket, rent ledger, court notice)
For safety‑related moves: police report or DV advocate letter (if available)
A simple hardship note: “Hours cut in July; prioritizing rent and food; we can resume full payments on [date].”

Realistic Timelines

Energy grants (Good Neighbor): 3–14 days after a complete application. Faster if all docs are ready. (eversource.com)
Eviction prevention (HomeStart): same‑week triage if you have court papers; financial assistance depends on negotiations and funding. (homestart.org)
Food pantries: same‑day once you know hours; weekly or monthly frequency varies. Rosie’s Place pantry operates weekdays with daily capacity limits. (rosiesplace.org)
Community Servings meals: apply now; current waitlists can be 12 months or longer for new clients. (servings.org)

United Way, Salvation Army, Catholic Charities — how they fit together

United Way of Massachusetts Bay supports Mass 2‑1‑1 (211 / 877‑211‑6277) and mobilizes emergency community funds through partner agencies; they can point you to the right local nonprofit today. (mass211.org)
Salvation Army runs Corps Community Centers statewide and the Good Neighbor Energy Fund. Use HQ contacts if you’re unsure which center covers your town: Divisional HQ 339‑502‑5900, 25 Shawmut Rd, Canton, MA. (massachusetts.salvationarmy.org, easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
Catholic Charities Boston provides Basic Needs help, shelters, food pantries, and case management across Eastern MA; offices listed under Locations. Funding for rent/utility help opens/closes—always call ahead. (ccab.org)

Tables: Quick Comparisons You Can Scan

1) Emergency & Hotline Numbers

Need	Number	Notes
Domestic violence statewide (SafeLink)	877‑785‑2020	24/7; multilingual; run by Casa Myrna. (casamyrna.org)
Project Bread FoodSource Hotline	1‑800‑645‑8333	Mon–Fri 8–7; Sat 10–2; 180 languages. (projectbread.org)
Mass 2‑1‑1	211 / 877‑211‑6277	24/7 statewide navigation. (mass211.org)
HomeStart Eviction Prevention	857‑415‑2900	Greater Boston eviction defense/arrears aid. (homestart.org)
Good Neighbor Energy Fund	800‑334‑3047 / 800‑262‑1320	One‑time heat/utility grant; 60–80% SMI. (eversource.com)

2) Utility/Energy Charity Programs

Program	Income rules	Max grant/benefit	How to apply
Good Neighbor Energy Fund	60–80% SMI	Up to $400 (recent season)	Call numbers above; local Salvation Army. (unitil.com)
Citizens Energy “Joe‑4‑Oil”	Financial hardship	100 gallons oil (one‑time)	Call 1‑877‑563‑4645. (cominghomeworcester.org)

3) Women‑Centered Food Sites

Site	Meals	Pantry	Contact
Rosie’s Place	Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner daily	Weekly; ~350 households/day	617‑318‑0237
Women’s Lunch Place	Breakfast & lunch, Mon–Sat	Hygiene + advocacy	617‑267‑1722

4) Rent & Eviction Prevention

Organization	Area	What they pay	Contact
HomeStart	Greater Boston	Partial back rent, court negotiation	857‑415‑2900
Catholic Charities	Eastern MA	Rent, utilities, fuel (when funded)	Dorchester 617‑506‑6600; Brockton 508‑587‑0815; Lynn 781‑593‑2312; Lowell 978‑452‑1421
Family Promise (LIFE/Prevention)	Metrowest/North Shore	Flexible eviction‑prevention funds	Metrowest 508‑318‑4820; NSB intake online

5) Baby & Kids Essentials

Program	Area	Benefit	Access
Cradles to Crayons	Statewide via partners	KidPacks + seasonal school supplies (tens of thousands of backpacks; 75k goal in 2025)	Request via partner agency
A Baby Center	Cape & Islands	Diapers, wipes, formula, layettes	508‑771‑8157
Room to Grow	Boston	Baby items + coaching for expecting/0–3	617‑859‑4545

6) Furniture & Household

Program	Area	What you get	Key step
Household Goods	Statewide (Acton)	Furniture & housewares	Referral + transport plan; 978‑635‑1710
My Brother’s Keeper	South Shore/South Coast	Free furniture delivered	Call Easton 508‑238‑4416 or Dartmouth 774‑305‑4590
The Wish Project	Greater Lowell	Clothes/diapers; referrals for furniture & baby gear	Walk‑in for clothing/diapers; agency referral for furniture/gear

What to Say When You Call (scripts you can copy)

“Hi, I’m a single mom in [city]. I received a [shut‑off notice/Notice to Quit]. I can provide ID, lease, and income. I’m asking about any emergency [utility/rent/food] help available and what documents you need. My phone is [your number]. Thank you.”
With landlords: “I’m working with [HomeStart/Catholic Charities/Family Promise]. Please email me an itemized ledger and confirm that you’ll accept a payment plan while we wait for charity funds.”

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B by topic)

Rent isn’t fully covered: Ask the court for a continuance to allow charity funds time to arrive; call legal aid to request representation; ask your city hall housing office about mediation. (search.boston.gov)
No pantry slots today: Call Project Bread (1‑800‑645‑8333) and ask for same‑day alternatives, mobile markets, or hospital‑based pantries (e.g., Boston Medical Center’s preventive pantry requires a provider referral). (projectbread.org, bmc.org)
Good Neighbor is closed: Call 211 for a “fuel bank” in your town, and ask your faith community (if any) about one‑time utility assistance. (mass211.org)
Disability or medical diet: Apply to Community Servings now (pregnancy/pediatric programs have defined weekly meal counts); ask your clinic social worker for interim meal support while waiting. (servings.org)

Resources by Region (not exhaustive—start here)

Greater Boston: HomeStart (857‑415‑2900), Rosie’s Place (617‑318‑0237), Women’s Lunch Place (617‑267‑1722), Community Servings (617‑522‑7777), Catholic Charities Dorchester (617‑506‑6600). (homestart.org, rosiesplace.org, womenslunchplace.org, servings.org, ccab.org)
North Shore/Merrimack Valley: Catholic Charities Lynn (781‑593‑2312), Family Promise NSB (intake online), The Wish Project (Lowell area clothing/diapers every 3 months), JF&CS Family Table distributions in Marblehead/Waltham. (ccab.org, familypromisensb.org, thewishproject.org, jfcsboston.org)
Metrowest: Family Promise Metrowest (508‑318‑4820), Household Goods (Acton 978‑635‑1710), My Brother’s Keeper (Easton 508‑238‑4416). (familypromisemetrowest.org, householdgoods.org, mybrotherskeeper.org)
Central MA: Veterans Inc. (800‑482‑2565); Salvation Army Worcester (508‑756‑7191) for local basic needs; Community Legal Aid (855‑252‑5342). (veteransinc.org, massachusetts.salvationarmy.org, communitylegal.org)
Western MA: Salvation Army Greenfield (413‑773‑3154), Household Goods referrals via local agencies, Community Legal Aid offices in Holyoke/Greenfield/Northampton/Pittsfield/Springfield. (massachusetts.salvationarmy.org, communitylegal.org)
Cape & Islands: A Baby Center (Hyannis 508‑771‑8157), Salvation Army (New Bedford 508‑997‑6561), Citizens Energy “Joe‑4‑Oil” (1‑877‑563‑4645) for deliverable fuel. (ababycenter.org, massachusetts.salvationarmy.org, cominghomeworcester.org)

Real‑World Examples

Energy: A Lawrence mom with income just above LIHEAP used the Good Neighbor Energy Fund to cover $400 toward a winter gas bill while setting up a utility payment plan for the balance. (unitil.com)
Eviction: A Dorchester mom called HomeStart the week she got a court summons. HomeStart negotiated to stop the eviction and paid part of the arrears directly to the landlord while she repaid the rest over 10 months. (homestart.org)
Food: A Roxbury mom used Rosie’s Place pantry weekly during a layoff and ate on‑site lunches between job interviews; when childcare fell through, Women’s Lunch Place helped connect her to advocacy support. (rosiesplace.org, womenslunchplace.org)

Resource List (name • descriptive link • phone • address)

Salvation Army Good Neighbor Energy Fund — one‑time energy grants for households at 60–80% SMI. Call 800‑334‑3047 (508/617/781/978) or 800‑262‑1320 (413). GNEF eligibility and contacts (Eversource page). Divisional HQ: 339‑502‑5900, 25 Shawmut Rd, Canton, MA. (eversource.com, easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
Catholic Charities Boston — emergency rent/utility/fuel help (funding varies). Living Assistance (how to apply). Dorchester/Yawkey 617‑506‑6600, Brockton 508‑587‑0815, Lynn 781‑593‑2312, Lowell 978‑452‑1421; see locations list. (ccab.org)
United Way/Mass 2‑1‑1 — statewide referral line for local charities (24/7). Dial 211 or 877‑211‑6277; Mass 2‑1‑1 Housing/Shelter. (mass211.org)
HomeStart (Greater Boston) — eviction prevention hotline 857‑415‑2900; program overview. Office: 105 Chauncy St., Boston. (homestart.org, cominghomedirectory.org)
Project Bread FoodSource Hotline — find pantries/meals; 1‑800‑645‑8333; official page. (projectbread.org)
Rosie’s Place (Boston) — meals daily, pantry weekly, advocacy helpline 617‑318‑0237; Food Programs. Address: 889–887 Harrison Ave, Boston. (rosiesplace.org)
Women’s Lunch Place (Boston) — breakfast/lunch Mon–Sat; advocacy; 617‑267‑1722; Hours & services. Address: 67 Newbury St, Boston. (womenslunchplace.org)
Community Servings — medically tailored meals; 617‑522‑7777; Meal Delivery. Address: 179 Amory St, Jamaica Plain. (servings.org)
JF&CS Family Table — monthly groceries (kosher available); client line 781‑693‑5593; Family Table. (jfcsboston.org)
A Baby Center (Hyannis) — diapers, wipes, formula; 508‑771‑8157; A Baby Center. Physical: 81 Willow Ave; Mail: 320 Main St, Hyannis. (ababycenter.org, ababycenter.org)
Household Goods (Acton) — furniture/housewares by referral; 978‑635‑1710; How to Receive. Address: 530 Main St, Acton. (householdgoods.org)
My Brother’s Keeper — free furniture delivered (South Shore & South Coast); Easton 508‑238‑4416, Dartmouth 774‑305‑4590; Furniture Assistance. (mybrotherskeeper.org)
The Wish Project (Lowell area) — clothing/diapers every 3 months; referrals for furniture and baby gear; How We Can Help. (thewishproject.org)
Casa Myrna / SafeLink — DV hotline 877‑785‑2020; legal line 617‑521‑0146; Get Support. Address: 451 Blue Hill Ave, Boston. (casamyrna.org)
Greater Boston Legal Services — intake 617‑371‑1234; Get Legal Help. (gbls.org)
Community Legal Aid (Central/Western MA) — 855‑252‑5342; offices in Worcester, Springfield, Holyoke, Greenfield, North Adams, Northampton, Pittsfield; Contact. (communitylegal.org)
Veterans Inc. (Women & Children’s Program) — 800‑482‑2565; Worcester HQ 69 Grove St.; Women & Children’s Program. (veteransinc.org)

“If You Only Do Three Things Today”

Call Project Bread 1‑800‑645‑8333 to lock in food support this week. (projectbread.org)
If you have an eviction paper or shut‑off notice, call the matching hotline today (HomeStart 857‑415‑2900 or Good Neighbor 800‑334‑3047/800‑262‑1320). (homestart.org, eversource.com)
Text a trusted friend your plan and the numbers you’re calling. Having a witness helps keep the process moving.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from established nonprofits and community organizations in Massachusetts (e.g., Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, United Way/Mass 2‑1‑1, Project Bread, Rosie’s Place, Community Servings, Household Goods, My Brother’s Keeper, Family Promise, HomeStart, Casa Myrna, GBLS/CLA). We follow our Editorial Standards: primary sources only, direct links to application portals, and prompt corrections.

Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

We rely on official pages for benefit levels and rules cited above. Some charities do not publish fixed dollar amounts; in those cases we clearly note “case‑by‑case” or provide the official phone number to confirm current amounts.

Disclaimer

Information here is for community and charitable programs (not state/federal benefits). Programs change and funding opens/closes without notice. Always verify amounts, eligibility, and deadlines directly with the organization before you apply. This guide is not legal advice or a guarantee of assistance.

Security note: Do not email or text photos of IDs or Social Security numbers unless the organization instructs you to through a secure channel. If a site seems suspicious, call the official phone number listed above to confirm.

Citations:

Good Neighbor Energy Fund eligibility/phones and recent grant cap. (eversource.com, unitil.com)
Town/utility income tables referencing 60–80% SMI (2024‑25 season examples). (sheld.org)
Project Bread FoodSource Hotline hours/languages. (projectbread.org)
Rosie’s Place meals/pantry volumes; Women’s Lunch Place hours. (rosiesplace.org, womenslunchplace.org)
Community Servings delivery model and weekly meal counts for pregnancy and pediatric programs; current wait times. (servings.org)
Household Goods annual scale; My Brother’s Keeper contact/service approach; The Wish Project client rules. (householdgoods.org, mybrotherskeeper.org, thewishproject.org)
HomeStart hotline and prevention model; Boston Office of Housing Stability contact. (homestart.org, boston.gov)
Catholic Charities Living Assistance and locations. (ccab.org)
SafeLink/Casa Myrna services and numbers. (casamyrna.org)

If you find an error, email info@asinglemother.org. We investigate verified corrections within 48 hours per our Editorial Policy.

Learn more:

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