Free Furniture and Household Items for Single Mothers in Massachusetts
Free Furniture & Household Items for Single Mothers in Massachusetts
Last updated: September 2025
Single moms in Massachusetts can stretch a tight budget by combining furniture banks, crisis funds, and community swaps to set up a safe, livable home fast. Use the steps and links below to act today, then work through the deeper sections for longer-term support via state programs like HomeBASE and RAFT.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call for a furniture bank referral now: Ask your caseworker, school social worker, or shelter advocate to refer you to Household Goods (Acton) or New Life Furniture Bank of MA; if you don’t have a worker, contact Mass 211 and ask for furniture bank referral options near you. Household Goods and New Life serve families statewide by referral and can supply whole-home basics. (householdgoods.org)
- Ask about immediate funds for beds and move-in costs: If you are EA shelter–eligible or on the EA Contact List, request HomeBASE and specifically the “furniture” line ($2,500 for beds/table/chairs) plus moving costs; if you’re not in EA, apply for RAFT for arrears or moving support while you secure donated items. (mass.gov)
- Stop a utility shutoff today: Call your utility first, then call the DPU Consumer Division at 1-877-886-5066 and mention “winter moratorium,” “infant under 12 months,” or “serious illness” protections; ask for a payment plan and medical protection if needed. Use the Attorney General’s protection guide and file a DPU complaint if the utility won’t restore service. (mass.gov)
Quick Help Box — Keep These Contacts Handy
- Mass 211 statewide resource line: Dial 1-877-211-6277 (or 211) to ask for furniture banks, RAFT HCECs, and emergency basic-needs help; the EOHLC Housing Resources Hotline also routes through Mass 211. (mass.gov)
- Department of Public Utilities Consumer Division (shutoff help): Call 1-877-886-5066; file online complaints and read rights as a utility consumer. (mass.gov)
- Emergency Assistance (EA) Family Shelter & HomeBASE intake: Call 1-866-584-0653 or apply online through Housing Help Hub; ask about furniture benefits under HomeBASE. (mass.gov)
- Major furniture banks (by referral): Household Goods (Acton) and New Life Furniture Bank (Walpole/Marlborough); ask your worker for a referral today. (householdgoods.org)
- Beds for kids: Ask a partner agency to submit for A Bed for Every Child; expect 30–45 days for scheduling/delivery, or choose pickup if offered. (abedforeverychild.org)
Emergency Programs at a Glance
| Program | Who it helps | What you can get | How to apply | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HomeBASE | EA-eligible families (pregnant or with kids) | Up to 30,000over2years;includesrenthelp,arrearsupto30,000 over 2 years; includes rent help, arrears up to 5,000, and $2,500 for beds/table/chairs | Apply via EA intake or diversion provider | Diversion outreach within 24 hours; furniture purchases can happen quickly when approved (Mass.gov notes updated 02/04/2025). (mass.gov) |
| RAFT | At risk of homelessness/losing housing | Up to $7,000 per 12 months for rent, utilities, moving, mortgage | Apply online; find your Regional Administering Agency | Time varies by RAA and funding; apply early and check status online. (mass.gov) |
| Household Goods | Families with a referral statewide | Whole-home basics: beds, sofas, tables, kitchenware | Referral from agency; you must plan transport | Appointments by referral; bring a “transportation plan.” (householdgoods.org) |
| New Life Furniture Bank | Referred clients; Walpole/Marlborough model | Full set of furniture + household goods | Agency submits referral; virtual shopping; pro mover or rental truck | Orders usually gathered within 24 hours of selection. (newlifefb.org) |
| A Bed for Every Child | Children in low-income families via partners | New bed + mattress; safe sleep education | Referral from school/health/human services partner | 30–45 days typical scheduling window. (mahomeless.org) |
| My Brother’s Keeper | Southeastern MA service area | Delivered furniture and essentials at no cost | Call the assistance line listed by site | Delivery-based; service area rules apply. (mybrotherskeeper.org) |
How to Get Free Furniture in Massachusetts (Start Here)
Step 1 — Get a referral to a furniture bank: Ask your caseworker, school or hospital social worker, or a community action agency to submit a referral to Household Goods or New Life Furniture Bank of MA; if you don’t have a worker, call Mass 211 and request agencies authorized to refer. Furniture banks stock beds, sofas, dressers, tables, and kitchen packs, and some (like New Life) offer virtual shopping plus scheduled pickup/delivery support. (householdgoods.org)
Step 2 — Line up transportation or delivery: Household Goods requires a “transportation plan” (truck, driver, and help to carry items); ask your worker if HomeBASE can fund movers or if local charity partners can assist. New Life’s Walpole site uses movers arranged by your referring agency, and its Marlborough site works if you can rent a truck yourself. (householdgoods.org)
Step 3 — Fill gaps with local options while you wait: Join your neighborhood Buy Nothing or Freecycle group for free finds and pickups; check the “Free” section on Craigslist and look for town “swap shops” (example: Newton Swap Shop), which often have household basics for free. Always inspect items for bedbugs and recall issues. (help.buynothingproject.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your worker to widen the referral net to Mission of Deeds (Reading) or Project Home Again (Lawrence), or request a Salvation Army Service Unit furniture voucher if available in your town. If you’re on the South Shore or South Coast, call My Brother’s Keeper to request delivery-based assistance. (missionofdeeds.org)
Money You Can Use for Furniture and Move‑In Needs
| Funding source | Eligibility basics | Covered items | How to get it | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HomeBASE furniture line | EA‑eligible family (pregnant/with kids) | Up to $2,500 for beds and/or a kitchen table and chairs | Through EA caseworker or diversion provider | Program cap is 30,000overtwoyears;arrearsupto30,000 over two years; arrears up to 5,000; rules updated Feb 4, 2025. (mass.gov) |
| HomeBASE moving | EA-eligible family | In‑state/out‑of‑state moving costs | Included in plan with case manager | Ask to combine with furniture purchases in one plan. (mass.gov) |
| RAFT | At risk of homelessness/loss of housing | Rent, utilities, moving, mortgage (not furniture) | Apply online; find your RAA | Current cap $7,000 per 12 months (check for updates). (mass.gov) |
| Catholic Charities living assistance | Low‑income households | Case‑by‑case help for rent/utilities; sometimes vouchers | Call your local office via locations list | Funding fluctuates; call first to confirm availability. (ccab.org) |
| Salvation Army Service Units | Town‑based service units | Emergency aid; some units offer furniture vouchers | Use the Service Unit contacts on the page | Over 220 volunteer units statewide; services vary by town. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Housing Consumer Education Center or Mass 211 to point you to small town funds, parish St. Vincent de Paul conferences, or city family aid that sometimes cover thrift‑store vouchers or moving costs. (metrohousingboston.org)
Major Furniture Banks — How They Work (and How to Get In)
Household Goods (Acton) — Free goods, referral required
Household Goods furnishes thousands of homes a year with donated basics, including beds, sofas, tables, and kitchenware; you must have a referral, and you are responsible for transportation. Use the Receive Furniture guide and ask your worker to submit the online referral form after you confirm a “transportation plan.” (householdgoods.org)
- Eligibility: Referral from agency, healthcare provider, school, faith group, or DTA office; see the Receive page for who can refer. Bring a photo ID and know your household size. (householdgoods.org)
- Timeline: Appointment availability varies; ask your referrer to request the first open slot and confirm your truck and helpers in advance. Use the planning checklist as a model for timing and prep. (missionofdeeds.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to be referred to New Life Furniture Bank or Mission of Deeds and check Mass 211 for backups. (newlifefb.org)
New Life Furniture Bank of MA (Walpole/Marlborough) — Full home setups
New Life serves by referral only; Walpole handles virtual shopping with a professional mover pickup arranged by your agency, and Marlborough serves clients who can rent a truck for pickup. Typical items include beds, dressers, tables/chairs, and lamps; volunteers gather your order within about 24 hours after you select items. Use the Need Furniture page to brief your advocate. (newlifefb.org)
- Eligibility: Referral from a social worker, caseworker, or place of worship; your agency coordinates the appointment. Read the Walpole vs. Marlborough options on the program page. (newlifefb.org)
- Timeline: Virtual shopping now; orders assembled quickly, then movers pick up; factor 1–2 weeks for delivery scheduling. For donors and volunteers, see drop-off hours and volunteer roles. (newlifefb.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Try Household Goods or Project Home Again if you’re in Merrimack Valley; call My Brother’s Keeper if you live in the South Shore/South Coast service area. (householdgoods.org)
Mission of Deeds (Reading) — Beds and basics at no cost
Mission of Deeds provides free beds, furniture, and household items to people in need; referrals are common and visits last about an hour. See Client Services and call 1-781-944-9797 with questions. (missionofdeeds.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Check Household Goods and Project Home Again, or ask your Salvation Army Service Unit about local vouchers. (householdgoods.org)
Project Home Again (Lawrence) — Partner‑referrals in Merrimack Valley
Project Home Again serves families by referral from more than 600 partners and supplies furniture and household goods at no charge; pickups for donors are limited to specific towns. Ask your caseworker to confirm they’re a contracted partner via the partners list. (phama.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use The Wish Project for basic household/baby goods via an agency in Greater Lowell/Lawrence; ask Catholic Charities if they have any living‑assistance this month. (thewishproject.org)
My Brother’s Keeper (Easton/Dartmouth) — Delivery to your home
MBK delivers furniture free of charge within its Southeastern MA service area; call the assistance numbers on the Contact page to request help. They can furnish bare apartments including beds, cribs, kitchens, and living rooms. (mybrotherskeeper.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Salvation Army Massachusetts Division for your local Corps or Service Unit, and check Mass 211 for town vouchers. (massachusetts.salvationarmy.org)
Beds for Children and Baby Gear
A Bed for Every Child: This statewide initiative delivers brand‑new beds and mattresses through schools, health centers, and community agencies; partners can request beds, and families may see a 30–45 day wait (pickup may speed it up). Start with the Request Form and confirm your referring agency. According to the Coalition’s page, over 1,500 beds are delivered annually statewide. (abedforeverychild.org)
Cradles to Crayons (Boston): Through partner agencies, families receive KidPacks (clothing, hygiene, bedding) and can request strollers, pack‑and‑plays, car seats, and emergency orders within 72 hours via partners; typical turnaround is around two weeks for standard orders. Ask your worker if they are a Service Partner or have them apply through Service Partners. (cradlestocrayons.org)
Room to Grow (Boston): Pregnant moms and parents of children 0–3 can enroll in a three‑year program with coaching and baby/toddler items; confirm eligibility and donation drop‑off hours using the Donate Baby Items page or contact Room to Grow Boston. (roomtogrow.org)
Safe sleep and crib safety: Follow state guidance for infant safe sleep and check recalls before accepting used gear. Use Mass DPH safe sleep info and the CPSC nursery safety alerts to avoid unsafe items. Some hospitals and programs use Cribs for Kids to supply play yards to eligible families. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatrician or Boston Public Health (HBHC) about crib or pack‑and‑play resources and home visiting; then check your community health center for referrals to Cradles to Crayons partners. (boston.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Massachusetts Today
- Call your utility and state your protection: If it’s between November 15 and March 15 and you need the utility for heat, say you are invoking winter moratorium protections; if an infant under 12 months or a seriously ill person lives in the home, note those protections and ask about the hardship form and medical letter. Use the AG’s guidance and keep copies. (mass.gov)
- If refused, call DPU Consumer Division now: Dial 1-877-886-5066 and file an emergency complaint; DPU can require utilities to restore or delay shutoff while protections are verified. Use the DPU’s complaint instructions and ask about medical/special protections. (mass.gov)
- Set up a payment plan and apply for LIHEAP: Apply for heating assistance October 1 (season Nov 1–Apr 30) and ask about Weatherization Assistance and Mass Save Income Eligible appliance replacements (like refrigerators). Use the Mass Heat Line at 1-800-632-8175 if needed. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Massachusetts Legal Help or your local legal aid, and ask Mass 211 about town fuel funds, Good Neighbor Energy Fund, or gift-of-heat programs. (masslegalhelp.org)
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Hubs
- Catholic Charities Boston (multiple sites): Call your nearest location for living‑assistance screening and shelter referrals; find addresses on the locations page and review Living Assistance details before visiting. (ccab.org)
- Salvation Army (statewide Service Units and Corps centers): Use the Massachusetts Division locator for a Corps Community Center near you or contact the Service Units team for town‑level emergency aid that may include furniture or clothing. (massachusetts.salvationarmy.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul (local parish conferences): Many parish conferences provide emergency rent/utility help and referral to furniture banks; contact a local conference (example: SVdP Concord-Carlisle), or ask your parish office about SVdP help. Also ask SVdP volunteers about Mission of Deeds. (svdpconcordcarlisle.org)
- City of Boston — Office of Housing Stability (OHS): If you live in Boston, call 1-617-635-4200 for eviction prevention, RAFT help, and emergency resources; see the OHS page and ask about legal clinics and utility assistance resources. (boston.gov)
- Western MA — Way Finders Housing Centers: Visit the Springfield Housing Center (1780 Main St.) for RAFT application help and housing counseling; they also maintain local resource lists for households moving out of shelter. (wayfinders.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Mass 211 and ask for community action agencies (like Community Teamwork in Lowell or Berkshire Community Action Council), which often know local voucher programs and swap events. (mass211.org)
Safety First: How to Choose Used Items
- Bedbug check: Inspect seams and joints; avoid upholstered items from unknown sources. Confirm with your local board of health via Mass.gov health guidance and ask furniture banks about pest‑free policies on their receive pages. (householdgoods.org)
- Recall check: Use the CPSC recall page for cribs, swings, and dressers; avoid old cribs and drop‑side models as noted by Boston safe sleep guidance. (boston.gov)
- Appliance replace/retire: If an old fridge is a money‑drain, check Mass Save appliance recycling for free pickup and a $75 rebate (2025 program), then ask your Mass Save Income Eligible vendor about no‑cost replacements. (masssave.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your housing worker if WAP or LIHEAP can connect you to utility‑funded appliance swaps that lower bills. (mass.gov)
Diverse Communities and Targeted Resources
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Contact Fenway Health’s family and parenting services for parenting support, and use GLAD Answers for name/gender marker guidance and legal referrals; request language access when calling Mass 211 to find affirming local partners. TTY or interpretation are available at many state hotlines; ask for accommodations up front. (fenwayhealth.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask about the Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP) for 0% loans to add ramps, accessible baths, or sensory spaces, and use MassMATCH to borrow assistive tech or find reused devices; HMLP income limits updated for 2025 appear on the qualification page (call to confirm). Request “large‑print applications” or phone‑based intake if needed. (cedac.org)
Veteran single mothers: Call Veterans Inc. at 1-800-482-2565 for housing stability and SSVF navigation; join the state Women Veterans Network for resource updates and events, and ask your city Veterans’ Services Officer about furniture assistance during re‑housing. Use accessibility services or TTY when calling state lines. (veteransinc.org)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: Contact the International Institute of New England (Boston/Lowell) for case management and employment help, and use the MIRA Coalition Helpline for referrals and basic legal triage; some IAS services focus on families in EA hotels. For immigration consultations in Greater Boston, see Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services. Ask for interpreters and translated forms. (iine.org)
Tribal‑specific resources (Wampanoag): Reach the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) Social Services or Tribal Housing Authority for emergency aid and housing; Mashpee Wampanoag families can connect via the Education/Family Services and IHS Health Service Unit for coordinated support. Ask about culturally specific family supports and referrals to furniture providers. (wampanoagtribe-nsn.gov)
Rural single moms with limited access: Use 413Cares to search Western MA resources and call Berkshire Community Action Council (LIHEAP) for heat/repair; ask your town DPW about swap shops and reuse days (ex: Newton’s Swap Shop model). Ask agencies for phone intake and mailed forms if travel is hard. (413cares.org)
Single fathers: Many services above are for any parent or caregiver; tell your worker you are the custodial parent and ask for the same furniture referrals and HomeBASE/ RAFT support; programs cannot discriminate by gender. (mass.gov)
Language access: When calling Mass 211 or state lines (DPU, EOHLC, DTA), ask for an interpreter. Request written materials in your language and TTY services if needed; the LIHEAP portal supports multiple languages through local agencies. (mass211.org)
Resources by Region
Greater Boston
Key furniture and household resources include Furnishing Hope (Cambridge) for families leaving homelessness, Household Goods (Acton) by referral, and Boston’s Office of Housing Stability for housing search help and legal clinics; add Cradles to Crayons for kid essentials. (furnishinghopema.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Mass 211, join a local Buy Nothing group, and ask your school social worker for a A Bed for Every Child referral. (mass211.org)
North Shore & Merrimack Valley
Use Mission of Deeds (Reading) and Project Home Again (Lawrence) via agency referral; The Wish Project (Chelmsford) supports basic household/baby needs through local agencies; connect with Catholic Charities North for basic‑needs screening. (missionofdeeds.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Community Teamwork (HCEC) and ask for RAFT and furniture referrals; check Freecycle groups in your town. (commteam.org)
Central Massachusetts & Worcester Area
Call Veterans Inc. if you’re a veteran parent; ask RCAP/your local HCEC via Mass 211 for furniture bank referrals; use New Life Furniture Bank if you can reach Marlborough. (veteransinc.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your parish SVdP (start with your church office) and post on Freecycle Worcester/Springfield for pickups. (freecycle.org)
Western Massachusetts (Pioneer Valley & Berkshires)
Get RAFT/LIHEAP help at Way Finders (Springfield) or BCAC (Berkshire County); search 413Cares for local furniture swaps and donation days. Use Freecycle Springfield to fill gaps. (wayfinders.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your HCEC about regional furniture partners or truck‑rental assistance and request referrals to Household Goods. (householdgoods.org)
South Shore, South Coast, Cape & Islands
Call My Brother’s Keeper for delivered furniture if you’re in their service area; on the Cape, watch town reuse events and Habitat ReStores for low‑cost items while you wait. For immigrant families, connect with IINE (Lowell/Boston) for casework if you relocated to the South Coast recently. (mybrotherskeeper.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your town’s social services office (or Mass 211 operator) about local SVdP conferences and swap‑days; try Freecycle Quincy or Barnstable groups for nearby pickups. (mass211.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the referral step: Most MA furniture banks require agency referrals. Ask your DTA worker, school social worker, or HCEC to refer you to Household Goods or New Life Furniture Bank immediately. (householdgoods.org)
- Not planning transport: Many banks don’t deliver; Household Goods asks clients to have a truck, driver, and lifting help. If you have EA/HomeBASE, ask your case manager to fund movers. (householdgoods.org)
- Waiting to apply for LIHEAP: Apply October 1 for the Nov–Apr season through the HEAP portal; the discount rates and moratorium protections are stronger when you are coded low‑income in utility systems. (mass.gov)
Reality Check
- Shelter and diversion are under strain: EA has a capacity cap and uses Rapid/Bridge tracks; the Secretary’s declaration remains in effect through November 9, 2025, so waitlists and prioritization remain likely. Ask about HomeBASE diversion even if you’re on the EA Contact List. (mass.gov)
- HomeBASE and RAFT rules shift: As of February 2025, HomeBASE explicitly allows 2,500forbeds/table/chairsandupto2,500 for beds/table/chairs and up to 5,000 for arrears; RAFT’s cap is $7,000 per 12 months. Always verify current amounts with EOHLC’s pages or your RAA before spending. (mass.gov)
- Furniture banks book up: Expect scheduling wait times; A Bed for Every Child lists 30–45 days for beds. Use Buy Nothing/Freecycle to bridge the gap. (abedforeverychild.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Save or Screenshot)
| Need | First call | Backup plan |
|---|---|---|
| Beds for kids | Ask school/clinic to refer to A Bed for Every Child | Ask worker for HomeBASE furniture line if EA‑eligible |
| Whole‑home basics | Have your caseworker refer to Household Goods | Use New Life Furniture Bank via agency |
| Move‑in/movers | HomeBASE or RAFT | Ask Salvation Army Service Units |
| Kid clothing/gear | Worker orders from Cradles to Crayons | Enroll with Room to Grow (pregnant/0–3) |
| Utility shutoff | Call DPU 1-877-886-5066 and read AG’s protections | Apply LIHEAP + Mass Save |
Application Checklist (Printable)
- Referral letter: from caseworker/school/hospital to Household Goods or New Life (include household size and special needs). (householdgoods.org)
- Photo ID and proof of MA address: for furniture bank intake and HomeBASE/EA; keep copies on your phone. (mass.gov)
- Transportation plan: truck/driver/helpers for Household Goods or rental truck for New Life Marlborough. (householdgoods.org)
- HomeBASE or RAFT documents (if applying): IDs, income proof, arrears notices, lease, and landlord info; find your RAA in advance. (mass.gov)
- Safe sleep gear: check baby items against Mass DPH safe sleep and CPSC recalls before pickup. (mass.gov)
If Your Application Gets Denied
- Ask for the reason in writing: For RAFT or HomeBASE, ask your RAA or diversion worker to explain and help you fix missing documents. If you were denied EA, review the EA eligibility page and ask about temporary verification waivers. (mass.gov)
- Reapply or appeal fast: Correct mistakes and resubmit; for DPU shutoff disputes, file a complaint and call 1-877-886-5066. For emergency kid gear, ask your worker to mark Cradles to Crayons orders “Emergency Request” (72‑hour goal). (mass.gov)
- Get advocacy: Contact legal aid via Massachusetts Legal Help and ask your city housing office (ex: Boston OHS) for escalation routes. (boston.gov)
FAQs (Massachusetts‑Specific)
- Can HomeBASE really pay for furniture: Yes—Mass.gov states 2,500isavailableforbedsand/orakitchentable/chairs,withatotalprogramcapof2,500 is available for beds and/or a kitchen table/chairs, with a total program cap of 30,000 over two years; arrears up to $5,000 can also be covered if they block a lease. Ask your diversion worker to include this in your plan. (mass.gov)
- Can RAFT buy furniture: No—current rules fund rent, utilities, moving, and mortgage costs up to $7,000 per 12 months. Pair RAFT for moving with donated furniture from Household Goods or New Life. (mass.gov)
- How long do kid bed requests take: A Bed for Every Child lists 30–45 days for scheduling/delivery; ask about pickup if you can transport to speed things up. (abedforeverychild.org)
- What documents do I need for EA/HomeBASE: IDs for adults, proof of family relationship, MA residency, and qualifying immigration status; all adults 18+ must complete a CORI form. Apply via EA instructions. (mass.gov)
- Who can refer me to a furniture bank: Social workers from DTA, housing authorities, health systems, schools, shelters, and faith communities can refer to Household Goods; New Life accepts referrals from agencies and places of worship. (householdgoods.org)
- How do I get free baby items quickly: Ask your worker to place an emergency Cradles to Crayons order (72‑hour target) and contact Room to Grow if pregnant/parenting 0–3. (cradlestocrayons.org)
- Is there a winter shutoff ban for heat: Yes—Nov 15 to Mar 15 for heat, plus protections for households with infants or serious illness; if refused, call DPU at 1-877-886-5066. See AG’s protections and DPU complaint page. (mass.gov)
- Can energy programs replace appliances: For income‑eligible households, Mass Save may replace inefficient refrigerators, dehumidifiers, and window ACs; also recycle old fridges with a $75 rebate. (masssave.com)
- Any help for disabilities and home setup: The HMLP offers 0% loans for accessibility (ramps, bath, sensory spaces); MassMATCH has device loans and reuse. Ask for accessible formats or interpreter services when you apply. (cedac.org)
- Where can I get local help fast: Dial Mass 211 for furniture bank referrals, HCEC contacts, and town emergency funds; Boston renters should also call the Office of Housing Stability for workshops and clinics. (mass211.org)
County/Region Variations That Matter
- RAA differences: RAFT processing varies by Regional Administering Agency—check your RAA’s intake days and upload portal before applying; Way Finders and Metro Housing Boston HCEC publish workshop calendars and office hours. (mass.gov)
- Furniture coverage: Some furniture banks have limited service areas (for example, My Brother’s Keeper covers the South Shore/South Coast), while Project Home Again focuses on Merrimack Valley; ask your referrer which partner serves your ZIP. (mybrotherskeeper.org)
Tables You Can Use
Compare the Big Five (What They Give and How Fast)
| Organization | Service area | How you get in | What you get | Typical wait |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Household Goods | Statewide (you travel to Acton) | Agency referral + transportation plan | Full home basics | Appointment-based; varies |
| New Life Furniture Bank | Statewide (Walpole/Marlborough) | Agency or place-of‑worship referral | Full sets; virtual shopping | Items gathered within ~24 hours, then delivery/pickup scheduling (newlifefb.org) |
| Mission of Deeds | North of Boston | Referral/common intake | Beds + furniture + housewares | Appointment slots; plan early (missionofdeeds.org) |
| Project Home Again | Merrimack Valley | Must be a partner agency client | Furniture + housewares | Partner‑queued scheduling (phama.org) |
| My Brother’s Keeper | South Shore/South Coast | Call assistance line | Delivered furniture | Depends on route coverage (mybrotherskeeper.org) |
State Programs that Indirectly Free Up Your Budget
| Program | Helps with | Why it matters for furniture |
|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP | Heating bills, discount rates | Lowers bills so you can buy missing items; opens path to WAP and discounts. (mass.gov) |
| Mass Save Income Eligible | No‑cost efficiency + appliance replacement | Replaces old power‑hogs; reduces monthly costs and sometimes replaces a failing fridge. (masssave.com) |
| WAP | Insulation, air sealing, minor health/safety | Healthier home and lower bills while you set up your space. (mass.gov) |
Community Swap Examples (To Watch Each Season)
| City/Town | What to search | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Newton | Swap Shop (Apr–Oct) | Free household goods for residents; great for kitchen items and small furniture. (newtonma.gov) |
| Cambridge DPW | Free Store (spring move‑out) | One‑day free store to rehome good items during move‑out season. (cambridgema.gov) |
| Freecycle groups | Town‑based | Ongoing local “give/ask” for free items; avoid landfill waste. (freecycle.org) |
Boston‑Area Utility Shutoff Help — Who to Call
| Situation | Call first | Then call |
|---|---|---|
| Winter heat at risk (Nov 15–Mar 15) | Your utility (ask for hardship coding) | DPU Consumer Division 1-877-886-5066; AG protections. (mass.gov) |
| Infant under 12 months or serious illness | Your provider; ask for medical protection | DPU hotline + your doctor’s note; apply LIHEAP next. (mass.gov) |
Quick Contacts for Immigrant/Refugee Families
| Organization | Focus | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| International Institute of New England | Case management, work, resettlement | Boston: 1-617-695-9990; Lowell: 1-978-459-9031 (iine.org) |
| MIRA Helpline | Legal triage, resource navigation | Email/appointment based |
| CCAB Immigration Services | Consults and pro se help | Email bridge@ccab.org (fees vary). (ccab.org) |
Boston Utility Shutoff Help (City‑Specific)
If you live in Boston, call the Office of Housing Stability for clinic times and use the city’s utility resources page for shutoff protections and utility contacts; ask about Eversource (1-800-592-2000) and National Grid (1-800-233-5325) hardship programs. Then file a DPU complaint if needed. (boston.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Massachusetts Legal Help about serious‑illness protections and submit medical notes quickly; apply for LIHEAP the same day. (masslegalhelp.org)
Timelines You Can Expect (Typical — Verify Before You Go)
- A Bed for Every Child: 30–45 days to schedule; faster if pickup is offered in your case (website note, 2025). (abedforeverychild.org)
- New Life Furniture Bank: Items gathered within ~24 hours of your virtual shopping; mover delivery then scheduled. (newlifefb.org)
- LIHEAP: Online app opens Oct 1; season runs Nov 1–Apr 30 (2024–2025 cycle). (mass.gov)
- HomeBASE: Diversion provider contacts within 24 hours after referral; furniture purchases occur after plan approval (page updated 02/04/2025). (mass.gov)
Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español
Esta sección fue producida con herramientas de traducción de IA. Verifique los detalles con las agencias enlazadas.
- Muebles gratis por referencia: Pida a su trabajadora social o a la escuela referirle a Household Goods o New Life Furniture Bank; llame a Mass 211 para encontrar agencias que hagan la referencia.
- Ayuda para camas de niños: Solicite a su agencia asociada A Bed for Every Child (de 30–45 días); para bebés, su clínica puede conectar con Cradles to Crayons o Room to Grow.
- Dinero para mudanza y compras esenciales: Familias elegibles para EA pueden pedir HomeBASE (hasta $2,500 para camas/mesa/sillas y costos de mudanza); también aplique a RAFT para renta/servicios.
- Evitar corte de servicios: Llame a DPU 1-877-886-5066 y revise protecciones del Fiscal General; solicite LIHEAP y Mass Save.
- Acceso a idioma: Pida intérprete en Mass 211, DPU, y oficinas estatales; muchas aceptan solicitudes por teléfono.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Executive Office of Housing & Livable Communities (EOHLC)
- HomeBASE (Mass.gov)
- RAFT (Mass.gov)
- LIHEAP/HEAP (Mass.gov)
- Weatherization Assistance Program (Mass.gov)
- Department of Public Utilities Consumer Division
- Household Goods and New Life Furniture Bank of MA
- A Bed for Every Child and Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This content is for general information, not legal advice. Program amounts, timelines, and eligibility can change without notice. Always confirm details with each agency before spending or traveling. Use caution with second‑hand items and verify recalls and safe‑sleep guidance using CPSC and Mass DPH resources. (mass.gov)
Notes on accuracy and recency:
- HomeBASE furniture allowance and program cap reflect Mass.gov as of February 4, 2025. Always verify on the HomeBASE page before purchase. (mass.gov)
- RAFT cap shown as $7,000/12 months per current Mass.gov RAFT page (accessed September 2025). (mass.gov)
- EA capacity and prioritization reflect EOHLC guidance current through July 11, 2025; declaration extended through November 9, 2025. See Emergency Housing Assistance. (mass.gov)
If you can’t find what you need: summarize your city/town, your children’s ages, and your move‑in date, then call Mass 211 and say: “I need a furniture bank referral, a HomeBASE furniture line if I’m EA‑eligible, and an HCEC contact for RAFT—please connect me.” This phrasing helps the operator route you to the right desks. (mass211.org)
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