Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Massachusetts
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Massachusetts
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- Emergency: If you or your children are in immediate danger, call 911. You do not have to explain everything. Say “domestic violence,” give your location, and ask for help.
- Massachusetts SafeLink hotline: (877) 785-2020 (24/7, multilingual). TTY (877) 521-2601. Confidential support, safety planning, shelter referrals. SafeLink details (Mass.gov). (mass.gov)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233, text START to 88788, or live chat. Get help now. (thehotline.org)
- Child-at-Risk Hotline (DCF) – report abuse/neglect 24/7: (800) 792-5200. Report child abuse or neglect (Mass.gov). (mass.gov)
- Deaf/Hard of Hearing options: Use Mass Relay 711 for SafeLink; National Deaf Hotline VP (855) 812-1001. SafeLink • National Deaf Hotline. (mass.gov, thehotline.org)
- Statewide program finder: Use Jane Doe Inc.’s tool to locate your closest DV/SA program. Find help by zip code. (janedoe.org)
What This Guide Covers
- Who it’s for: Single mothers in Massachusetts needing fast, practical steps to stay safe, protect kids, and stabilize housing, money, and work.
- What you’ll get: Exact hotlines, court steps for restraining orders (209A/258E), shelter and housing, cash/food/health supports, legal help, work protections, and specialized resources for diverse communities—each with how-to-apply, required documents, amounts, timelines, and “Plan B” if the first try doesn’t work.
- Reality check: Some systems are strained and waitlists happen. Where that’s the case, you’ll see workarounds and backup options.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | What it is | Key numbers and links |
|---|---|---|
| SafeLink (state DV hotline) | 24/7 confidential DV help, shelter referrals | (877) 785-2020 (TTY (877) 521-2601) • SafeLink at Mass.gov. (mass.gov) |
| National DV Hotline | 24/7 safety planning and support | (800) 799-7233, text START to 88788 • Get help. (thehotline.org) |
| 209A protective order | Abuse prevention order (restraining order) | How to request a 209A order. (mass.gov) |
| 258E order | Harassment prevention order (if the abuser isn’t a family/intimate partner) | How to request a 258E order. (mass.gov) |
| EA Family Shelter | Emergency family shelter for pregnant people or those with kids under 21 | Contact line (866) 584-0653, M–F • Eligibility & apply. (mass.gov) |
| RAFT | One-time rental help up to $7,000/12 months (higher AMI allowed for DV risk) | Apply for RAFT. (mass.gov) |
| TAFDC cash assistance | Monthly cash for families with kids | Max for 2-person household: $753 (private housing). TAFDC amounts. (mass.gov) |
| SNAP food benefits | Monthly grocery benefit | Max for 4-person household: $975 (Oct 2024–Sep 2025). SNAP max levels (PDF). (mass.gov) |
| WIC | Women, Infants, and Children nutrition program | Monthly fruit/veg benefit: children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 (FY2025). USDA WIC memo. (fns.usda.gov) |
| PFML | Paid Family & Medical Leave | 2025 max weekly benefit $1,170.64. DFML benefit amounts. (mass.gov) |
| MOVA Victim Compensation | Reimburses crime-related costs | Up to 25,000∗∗percrime;funeralcap∗∗25,000** per crime; funeral cap **13,000, home security up to $4,000. Apply. (mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov) |
Emergency Actions You Can Take Right Now
Your first move: Get safe contact and a paper trail.
- Call SafeLink now: (877) 785-2020 for safety planning, hotel/shelter options, and a warm handoff to a local program. If it’s not safe to call, text the National DV Hotline at 88788 (send “START”). (mass.gov, thehotline.org)
- If you’re fleeing with kids and nowhere safe to sleep: Call the Emergency Family Shelter line (866) 584-0653 M–F, or apply online via the Housing Help Hub. Ask for “EA Family Shelter,” state DV risk, and keep your phone on. When a unit opens, you must respond by 12 p.m. the next business day. (mass.gov)
- Document injuries and threats: Photograph injuries, save texts/voicemails, and write down dates/times. This helps with 209A orders, housing emergency transfers, and MOVA claims. MOVA application basics. (mass.gov)
- Use a safe device: If your phone/computer may be monitored, use a friend’s phone or a library device; clear your browser history; consider the state’s Address Confidentiality Program. [ACP apply & hotline (866) 723-3233] (Secretary of the Commonwealth). (sec.state.ma.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call a different line (National DV Hotline (800) 799-7233), ask a hospital social worker or police DV unit to connect you, or walk into any courthouse during business hours and ask for help filing a 209A emergency order. (thehotline.org, mass.gov)
Legal Protection: 209A Abuse Prevention Orders and 258E Harassment Orders
How to get a 209A restraining order today
- Where to file: Probate & Family, District, Superior, or Boston Municipal Court—whichever covers where you live or are staying now. After hours, go to any police station. Step-by-step guide. (mass.gov)
- Cost and interpreter: No fees for forms or filing, and interpreters are free. Massachusetts Legal Help explainer. (masslegalhelp.org)
- What to bring: Any ID; evidence (photos of injuries/damage, threatening messages); names and birthdates of children; your safe mailing address (ask about keeping addresses confidential); ask to include custody/child support requests and pet protection if needed. Forms, including pet protection under G.L. c.209A §11. (mass.gov)
- Timeline: Judges can issue an emergency “ex parte” order the same day. A “hearing after notice” must be scheduled within 10 court business days. Keep a copy of the order with you; police serve the defendant. Judicial guidelines & timeline. (mass.gov)
- Important 2024 change: Massachusetts added a definition of coercive control to 209A (covers patterns like isolation, financial control, tech stalking). This can support your 209A case. M.G.L. c.209A §1. (malegislature.gov)
- Firearms surrender: If an ex parte order issues on immediate danger, the court must order the abuser to surrender firearms, ammo, and any LTC/FID immediately; police must confiscate upon service. Violations are arrestable crimes. [M.G.L. c.209A §§3B–3C; Judicial Guidelines 8:01]. (mass.gov, malegislature.gov)
- Protecting pets: You can ask the judge to include your pets in the order (possession, no harm orders). [M.G.L. c.209A §11; petition form included in packet]. (malegislature.gov, mass.gov)
- If the abuser isn’t family/intimate: Ask for a 258E harassment prevention order (no fee). How to request 258E. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the clerk to connect you to a SAFEPLAN advocate (court-based), a Victim/Witness Advocate (from the DA’s office), or the Court Service Center (in person or via Zoom) for help refiling or appealing within 30 days. Court Service Centers. (mass.gov)
Safety, Privacy, and Documentation
- Address Confidentiality Program (ACP): Get a state-provided substitute mailing address for use with RMV, MassHealth, schools, and other agencies. Apply through a trained application assistant; hotline (866) 723-3233. How to apply. (sec.state.ma.us)
- Digital safety: Clear browser history; avoid shared devices; change passwords and location-sharing settings. See Mass.gov privacy tips and use SafeLink/Hotline if unsafe to browse. Protecting your privacy. (mass.gov)
- Evidence to save: Photos; threatening messages; police/medical records; 209A/258E paperwork; cost receipts to support MOVA reimbursement and housing emergency transfers. MOVA coverage and timeline. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a DV advocate to keep copies and help organize documents for court, housing, and benefits. Find programs via Jane Doe Inc. Program directory. (janedoe.org)
Housing and Shelter
Emergency Family Shelter (EA) when you have children or are pregnant
- How to apply: Online via the Housing Help Hub or call (866) 584-0653 M–F, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. If placed on the Contact List, you must reply by 12 p.m. the next business day when notified of an opening. (mass.gov)
- Who qualifies: Massachusetts resident; pregnant or child under 21; gross income at or below 115% of Federal Poverty Guidelines; and a qualifying reason (DV risk; no-fault eviction; disaster; or serious health/safety risk). (mass.gov)
- Documents typically needed: IDs; proof of MA residency; proof of family relationship; immigration status docs. If missing documents, you may get a temporary waiver but must submit within 30 days. (mass.gov)
- Waitlist reality: Massachusetts has a capped shelter system with a prioritized Contact List. Response deadlines are strict; call back even if you miss one offer—termination happens after three missed responses. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2-1-1 for overflow or local resources; ask about re-ticketing to a safe place; and apply for RAFT and HomeBASE to exit homelessness faster. (mass.gov)
Rental help to avoid eviction or move quickly
- RAFT (Residential Assistance for Families in Transition): Up to $7,000 in a 12-month period for rent, arrears, utilities, moving, or mortgage. DV survivors may qualify up to 60% AMI. Apply online; simple application encouraged. (mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov)
- HomeBASE (for EA-eligible families): Time-limited rehousing funds and stabilization services. Current statute caps up to $30,000 over 24 months (with limited exceptions), and the administration has proposed increases and duration changes—confirm current caps when you apply. (budget.digital.mass.gov, mass.gov)
- VAWA housing protections (if you have federal subsidy): You cannot be denied, evicted, or lose assistance for being a DV survivor. You can request an emergency transfer to a “safe unit” you choose. Forms HUD‑5380–5383 are available from your housing provider. (hud.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a DV advocate or housing counselor to help you request a VAWA emergency transfer or to strengthen RAFT documentation (e.g., police report, 209A, advocate letter). Use Jane Doe’s directory or call SafeLink to connect. (janedoe.org, mass.gov)
Domestic violence shelters and local programs (by region)
Here are state-vetted programs with 24/7 lines. For more, see Jane Doe Inc.’s directory.
- Greater Boston: Casa Myrna (SafeLink (877) 785-2020), RESPOND (617) 623-5900, REACH (800) 899-4000, FINEX House (617) 288-1054, Transition House (617) 661-7203, Renewal House (617) 566-6881, HarborCOV (617) 884-9909. (mass.gov)
- Southeastern MA & the Islands: DOVE (617) 471-1234 / (888) 314-3683, New Hope (800) 323-4673, Independence House (800) 439-6507, A Safe Place (Nantucket) (508) 228-2111, CONNECT to End Violence (MV) (508) 696-7233. (mass.gov)
- Central MA: YWCA Central MA (508) 755-9030; Voices Against Violence (800) 593-1125. (mass.gov, ywcacm.org)
- Western MA: Safe Passage (413) 586-5066, Elizabeth Freeman Center (866) 401-2425, Womanshelter/Compañeras (413) 536-1628, YWCA Western MA (800) 796-8711. (mass.gov, mass211.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call SafeLink again, ask for assistance contacting a neighboring region, or call the National DV Hotline for additional placement help. (mass.gov, thehotline.org)
Money, Food, Health, and Child Care
TAFDC cash assistance (DV waivers available)
- Monthly maximums (private housing): 1-person 604∗∗,2−person∗∗604**, 2-person **753, 3-person 901∗∗,4−person∗∗901**, 4-person **1,043; add $153 per additional person. Public/subsidized housing max is slightly lower. Benefits are paid twice monthly. (mass.gov)
- DV “good cause” waivers: You can request waivers from work rules, time limits, and child support cooperation if it would put you or your child at risk or penalize you for abuse. Ask for a DTA Domestic Violence Specialist to help. (mass.gov, eohhs.ehs.state.ma.us)
- How to apply: Online with DTA Connect, by phone, or at a DTA office. While getting TAFDC. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal, ask for a DV waiver in writing, or call the DTA Assistance Line (877) 382-2363 to connect with a DV Specialist. (mass.gov)
SNAP food benefits
- Maximum SNAP monthly amounts (Oct 2024–Sep 2025): 1-person 292∗∗,2−person∗∗292**, 2-person **536, 3-person 768∗∗,4−person∗∗768**, 4-person **975; add $220 for each additional person. (mass.gov)
- Fast track: If you have low income and very little cash, you may qualify for expedited SNAP (within 7 days). See DTA issuance tables and apply via DTA Connect.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DTA to screen you for expedited service and help document your shelter and utility costs to maximize benefits. (mass.gov)
WIC and Farmers Market benefits
- WIC monthly cash-value benefit (FY2025): Children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)
- Farmers Market Nutrition Program (seasonal): In 2025, WIC families can apply for $30 in coupons for fruits/vegetables. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic for a same-day voucher appointment; bring kids’ IDs and proof of address; request language interpretation if needed (free).
Paid leave and time off for safety
- Domestic violence leave (M.G.L. c.149 §52E): Employers with 50+ employees must allow up to 15 days in a 12‑month period (paid or unpaid) for medical care, counseling, legal help, court, housing, or safety planning. Employers can require documentation; leave is protected. Talk to HR; keep documents confidential. (malegislature.gov, mass.gov)
- Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML): If injuries/trauma from abuse prevent you from working, you may qualify for PFML. 2025 maximum weekly benefit is $1,170.64. File online; benefits depend on your recent wages. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer denies DV leave, contact the Attorney General’s Fair Labor Division; if PFML is denied, appeal quickly and add medical letters explaining how DV impacted your work capacity. (mass.gov)
Victim Compensation (MOVA): Money to Recover Costs
- What it covers: Uninsured medical/dental, counseling for you and children who witnessed violence, lost wages, funeral/burial, bedding/clothing replacement, crime scene cleanup, home security measures, among others.
- Maximum award: Up to 25,000∗∗percrime;typicaldecisionin∗∗4–6months∗∗(claimscanbereopened).AsofFY2025,funeralreimbursementcapincreasedto∗∗25,000** per crime; typical decision in **4–6 months** (claims can be reopened). As of FY2025, funeral reimbursement cap increased to **13,000; certain security costs increased to $4,000. Boston office (617) 586‑1340. (mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov)
- How to apply: Complete the application and submit to MOVA; you must report the crime and cooperate unless you have a reasonable excuse (e.g., safety). Apply to MOVA. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a DV advocate or hospital social worker for help appealing or adding documentation; MOVA has an “AskMOVA” help portal to assist. (mass.gov)
Tables You Can Use
Table 1 — 209A/258E Protection at a Glance
| Topic | 209A abuse prevention | 258E harassment prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship needed | Family/household members, co-parents, or serious dating partners | Any person who harasses, stalks, or sexually assaults you |
| Filing cost | $0 | $0 |
| Emergency order | Same day, including after-hours via police | Same day, including after-hours via police |
| Return hearing | Within 10 court business days | Within 10 court business days |
| Pets/firearms | Can protect pets; mandatory firearms surrender on emergency orders | Firearms surrender can be ordered on emergency orders |
| Where to start | Request 209A | Request 258E |
| Help at court | SAFEPLAN, Court Service Centers, Victim/Witness | SAFEPLAN, Court Service Centers, Victim/Witness |
Table 2 — Money & Food: Typical Benefit Levels
| Program | Household size | Max monthly amount |
|---|---|---|
| TAFDC (private housing) | 1 | $604 |
| 2 | $753 | |
| 3 | $901 | |
| 4 | $1,043 | |
| SNAP (Oct 2024–Sep 2025) | 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 | |
| 3 | $768 | |
| 4 | $975 | |
| WIC monthly fruit/veg | Children | $26 |
| Pregnant/postpartum | $47 | |
| Fully/mostly breastfeeding | $52 |
Table 3 — Housing Help Fast Facts
| Program | Key points | Maximums |
|---|---|---|
| EA Family Shelter | Contact line (866) 584-0653; respond to placement by 12 p.m. next business day; qualifying reasons include DV | N/A |
| RAFT | For arrears/move costs; DV eligible up to 60% AMI | Up to $7,000 per 12 months |
| HomeBASE | Rehousing help for EA-eligible families; case management | Statute allows up to $30,000/24 months (verify current cap at application) |
| VAWA protections | Keep subsidy, request emergency transfer; use HUD forms 5380–5383 | N/A |
(mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov, hud.gov)
Table 4 — Work and Income Protection
| Protection | What it does | Key figures |
|---|---|---|
| DV leave (M.G.L. c.149 §52E) | Up to 15 days in 12 months for court, housing, medical, etc. (employers 50+) | Paid/unpaid at employer’s discretion; documentation allowed; confidentiality required |
| PFML | Paid leave for own serious health condition (including DV-related injuries) | Max weekly $1,170.64 in 2025 |
Table 5 — Statewide Hotlines and Specialized Support
| Service | Who it helps | How to reach |
|---|---|---|
| SafeLink | Statewide DV support/shelter | (877) 785-2020; TTY (877) 521-2601 |
| National DV Hotline | 24/7 national help | (800) 799-7233; text START to 88788 |
| Child-at-Risk Hotline | Report child abuse/neglect | (800) 792-5200 |
| StrongHearts Native Helpline | Native/Tribal survivors | (844) 762-8483 (via NDVH page) |
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for LGBTQ-affirming services and safety planning for outing risks and tech stalking. Fenway Health’s Violence Recovery Program and other inclusive hospital programs are listed by Jane Doe Inc. See JDI’s Massachusetts resources. (janedoe.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask for reasonable accommodations at court and in shelter (e.g., accessible rooms, ASL). Use SafeLink TTY (877) 521-2601; the National Deaf Hotline VP (855) 812-1001 is available 24/7. (mass.gov, thehotline.org)
- Veteran single mothers: You can file for a 209A order and also seek PFML if DV-related injuries prevent working. Ask your VA social worker or a DV advocate to document injuries for PFML and MOVA.
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can get help regardless of immigration status. MIRA Coalition offers DV/immigration info (VAWA self-petitions, U visas, T visas). SafeLink has access to interpretation in 130+ languages. MIRA DV resources. (miracoalition.org)
- Tribal-specific resources: Call the StrongHearts Native Helpline (844) 762‑8483 for culturally specific support and safety planning. You can still request a Massachusetts 209A order. National Hotline page. (thehotline.org)
- Rural single moms (limited access): Ask SafeLink for transportation help to shelter or court. Court Service Centers can assist remotely (Zoom/phone) if travel is unsafe or too costly. Virtual CSC info and phone access. (mass.gov)
- Single fathers: DV resources serve all genders. If you are the protective parent, you can file for a 209A order and seek the same benefits listed in this guide.
- Language access: Interpreters are free for 209A/258E. Ask the clerk or judge at the start of your hearing. Massachusetts Legal Help. (masslegalhelp.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the shelter callback window: When EA calls/texts about a placement, you must respond by 12 p.m. the next business day. Keep your ringer on and voicemail set up. (mass.gov)
- Not telling DTA about DV: Without noting DV, you might be assigned to work activities or child support cooperation that are unsafe. Ask for a DV Specialist and request “good cause” or a waiver. (mass.gov)
- Going to court without evidence: Bring photos, messages, witness statements, and any prior police reports. If you lack documents, ask a SAFEPLAN advocate to help explain your situation to the judge. (masslegalhelp.org)
- Forgetting to include pets and firearms in your order request: Tell the court you need pet protection and note any firearms. The judge can order protection for pets and immediate firearms surrender. (malegislature.gov, mass.gov)
- Not asking for VAWA housing protections: If you have a voucher or live in HUD-assisted housing, request an emergency transfer immediately. (hud.gov)
Application Checklists
- 209A order (restraining order) checklist:
- ID (if possible), your safe mailing address, and any evidence (photos, texts, police reports).
- Children’s info (names/DOBs) if asking for custody/visitation limits.
- Pet info, if asking for pet protection.
- Ask for an interpreter if needed.
- Keep a copy of the order with you at all times. (mass.gov)
- EA Family Shelter checklist:
- IDs, proof of MA residency, proof of family relationship, and immigration status docs; if missing, ask about a temporary verification waiver and submit within 30 days.
- Keep phone available; respond by 12 p.m. next business day to placement calls. (mass.gov)
- RAFT rental help checklist:
- Photo ID, proof of income (past 30 days), lease/eviction notice or utility shutoff, and a brief DV safety note if relevant (209A, police report, or advocate letter).
- Apply online and upload documents; ask your Housing Consumer Education Center for help. (mass.gov)
- MOVA victim compensation checklist:
- Police report or reason for delayed reporting, bills/receipts, employer letter for lost wages, and death certificates/funeral bills (if applicable).
- Apply within 3 years of the crime (extensions possible) and expect 4–6 months for decisions. (mass.gov)
Massachusetts Facts You Can Use in Court or Applications
- Homicides: In 2023, Massachusetts saw 19 domestic violence homicide victims, according to Jane Doe Inc. (state coalition). Use this to explain risk factors; judges understand DV lethality. (janedoe.org)
- Prevalence: CDC survey data show that a significant share of Massachusetts women report lifetime intimate partner violence; JDI cites CDC estimates in the 30–35% range for Massachusetts women. (janedoe.org)
If the Abuser Violates the Order
- Call 911 immediately. Violation of no-abuse/no-contact/stay-away, or failure to surrender firearms under 209A, is a criminal offense and grounds for a mandatory, warrantless arrest. Keep a copy of your order with you. (mass.gov)
- Tell the court at your next hearing; ask for stronger terms (longer duration, GPS boundaries, custody terms) and keep documenting all contacts.
FAQs (Massachusetts, state-specific)
- Can I get a 209A if we never lived together?
Yes. If you share a child, were married, lived together, or were in a serious dating relationship, you can ask for a 209A. If not, consider a 258E order. (mass.gov) - How fast can I get a restraining order?
Same day. Judges can issue an emergency order immediately; the return hearing will be within 10 court business days. (mass.gov) - Are interpreters and filing free?
Yes. No fees for forms or filing, and interpreters are free. (masslegalhelp.org) - Can I protect my pets?
Yes. Courts can order the abuser not to harm or take your pets and grant you possession. Ask to include pets on your order. (malegislature.gov) - What if the abuser has guns?
For emergency 209A orders, the court must order immediate surrender of guns and licenses; police confiscate upon service. Violations are crimes. (mass.gov) - How do I keep my address off public records?
Apply to the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) through a trained assistant; call (866) 723-3233. (sec.state.ma.us) - Do I have to cooperate with child support for TAFDC?
You can request good cause due to DV to avoid unsafe cooperation and other requirements. Ask for a DTA DV Specialist. (mass.gov) - How much cash help could I get from TAFDC?
A 2‑person household in private housing can get up to $753/month (more with certain deductions/waivers). (mass.gov) - What can RAFT cover and how much?
Up to $7,000 in 12 months for rent/arrears, utilities, moving, or mortgage. DV survivors may qualify up to 60% AMI. (mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov) - Where can I get legal help filling forms?
Ask for a SAFEPLAN advocate or the Court Service Center (phone/Zoom/in-person). The MBA Lawyer Referral Service can help you find an attorney at (866) 627‑7577. (mass.gov, masslawhelp.com)
What to Expect: Realistic Timelines
- 209A order: Same-day ex parte; return hearing within 10 court business days; renewals vary by judge. (mass.gov)
- EA Shelter: Application processing during business hours; placement depends on availability; you must reply by 12 p.m. next business day when offered a unit. (mass.gov)
- MOVA compensation: Initial decisions typically 4–6 months after complete application; claims can be reopened for later expenses. (mass.gov)
- PFML: Varies; start online early; weekly payments after approval; 2025 cap $1,170.64/week. (mass.gov)
Local Organizations and Supports
Use Jane Doe Inc.’s search tool for the most current list by city/town. Below are examples with 24/7 hotlines:
- Casa Myrna (Boston) / SafeLink: (877) 785-2020 (statewide hotline). Organization site. (casamyrna.org)
- YWCA Central MA: (508) 755-9030 (24/7). Survivor services. (ywcacm.org)
- New Hope (Southeastern MA): (800) 323‑4673. (mass.gov)
- Independence House (Cape Cod): (800) 439‑6507. (mass.gov)
- Safe Passage (Hampshire County): (413) 586‑5066. (mass.gov)
Reality Checks and Tips
- Shelter capacity is tight: The state has a prioritization system; respond fast to calls and keep your voicemail clear. If you’re DV‑prioritized, note that clearly in your application. (mass.gov)
- Program funding can shift: Some victim programs face federal shortfalls; services remain, but hours/staffing may vary. Be persistent and ask for callbacks. (mass.gov)
- Use multiple routes: Call SafeLink, apply for EA/RAFT, and seek a 209A order simultaneously. The combination increases safety and unlocks additional help (VAWA transfers, child care referrals, DV waivers).
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Dedicated benefits researchers specializing in government assistance programs.
Source standards: We rely on official state and federal sources and established nonprofits; links were tested at publication and policies tracked for changes. See our full Editorial Standards.
Verification cadence: Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Limitations: We are independent researchers, not a government agency. Benefit amounts can change; local practices can vary by county. If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org—we aim to respond within 48–72 hours.
This guide reflects E‑E‑A‑T best practices: lived program experience, specialized expertise, official sourcing, and prompt corrections. (mass.gov)
Disclaimer
Accuracy: Policies, dollar amounts, and eligibility rules can change quickly. Always verify details directly with the relevant agency using the official links in this guide.
Safety and health: This content is for general information only and not legal advice, medical advice, or case-specific guidance. For immediate danger, call 911. For legal advice, contact a licensed attorney.
Security: If you believe your device is monitored, use a safe device and clear your history. Avoid sharing addresses publicly; consider the Address Confidentiality Program if safety is a concern. (sec.state.ma.us)
Sources (selected)
- Massachusetts SafeLink hotline and resources. (mass.gov)
- 209A/258E filing instructions and judicial timelines. (mass.gov)
- Pet protection (209A §11) and firearms surrender (209A §§3B–3C). (malegislature.gov, mass.gov)
- EA Family Shelter application, contact list rules, and waitlist updates. (mass.gov)
- RAFT and HomeBASE caps. (mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov)
- SNAP max allotments (FY2025), WIC CVB (FY2025). (mass.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- TAFDC grant levels and DV waivers. (mass.gov)
- PFML maximum weekly benefit (2025). (mass.gov)
- MOVA compensation caps and contact. (mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov)
- VAWA housing protections and emergency transfers. (hud.gov)
- DV shelters and hotlines by region; JDI directory. (mass.gov, janedoe.org)
- DCF Child‑at‑Risk Hotline. (mass.gov)
- Massachusetts DV leave law (M.G.L. c.149 §52E). (malegislature.gov)
If you need help right now, call (877) 785‑2020 (SafeLink) or (800) 799‑7233 (National DV Hotline). You are not alone in navigating this—use the steps and links above to move one piece at a time.
Learn more:
- Massachusetts SafeLink Resources | Mass.gov
- Get Help | The National Domestic Violence Hotline
- Report child abuse or neglect | Mass.gov
- Domestic Violence Support | National Domestic Violence Hotline
- Find Help | JDI
- Request an abuse prevention order | Mass.gov
- Request a harassment prevention order | Mass.gov
- Review Eligibility & Apply for Emergency Assistance (EA) Family Shelter | Mass.gov
- Apply for RAFT (emergency help for housing costs) | Mass.gov
- While Getting TAFDC | Mass.gov
- MAXIMUM BENEFIT LEVELS
- WIC FY 2025 Cash-Value Voucher/Benefit Amounts | Food and Nutrition Service
- How PFML weekly benefit amounts are calculated and/or changed | Mass.gov
- Applying for Victims of Violent Crime Assistance | Mass.gov
- Section 154: Victim Compensation Reimbursement 1 | Summary FY25 Budget
- How to Apply for ACP as a Survivor
- How to get a 209A restraining order | Massachusetts Legal Help
- Restraining order/abuse prevention order court forms | Mass.gov
- Guidelines for Judicial Practice: Abuse Prevention Proceedings | Mass.gov
- General Law – Part II, Title III, Chapter 209A, Section 1
- Mass. General Laws c.209A § 3B | Mass.gov
- General Law – Part II, Title III, Chapter 209A, Section 3C
- General Law – Part II, Title III, Chapter 209A, Section 11
- Court Service Centers | Mass.gov
- Protecting Your Privacy | Mass.gov
- Emergency Housing Assistance | Mass.gov
- Learn more about the Emergency Assistance (EA) Family Shelter Contact List | Mass.gov
- 70049316: Residential Assistance for Families in Transition | Summary FY25 Budget
- 70040108: HomeBASE | Summary FY26 Budget
- Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Systemwide Changes to Lower Shelter Costs | Mass.gov
- Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
- Domestic Violence Programs for Survivors | Mass.gov
- Survivor Services – YWCA Central Massachusetts
- Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Help | Mass 211
- DTA Domestic Violence Services | Mass.gov
- Grounds for Good Cause due to Domestic Violence
- Department of Transitional Assistance program eligibility charts and tables | Mass.gov
- Farmers Market Nutrition Program | Mass.gov
- General Law – Part I, Title XXI, Chapter 149, Section 52E
- Massachusetts law about employment leave for domestic violence | Mass.gov
- Breaks and time off | Mass.gov
- Massachusetts Victims of Violent Crime Compensation | Mass.gov
- Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
- Health care, social services and domestic violence – MIRA Coalition
- Learn about the Virtual Court Service Center | Mass.gov
- There were 19 domestic violence homicides in Massachusetts in 2023, data show | JDI
- Find out if you’re eligible to request an abuse prevention order | Mass.gov
- Massachusetts Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
- Casa Myrna
- MOVA and the Victim and Witness Assistance Board Announce Reduced Grants Due to Federal Funding Shortfall; Highlights Need for State Investment in VOCA Bridge | Mass.gov
- Policies and Procedures | Mass.gov
🏛️More Massachusetts Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Massachusetts
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
