Menu
housing assistance in massachusetts

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Massachusetts

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Massachusetts

Last updated: August 2025

Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025


Main Points

  • Emergency family shelter (EA program) is available but currently has a waiting list due to high demand through November 2025
  • RAFT emergency assistance provides up to $7,000 per household within 12 months for rent, utilities, and moving costs
  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists are 12-24 months long in most areas
  • CHAMP online portal allows single application for multiple state housing programs
  • HomeBASE program covers first/last month’s rent and security deposits for families eligible for emergency assistance
  • Income limits vary by region – most programs serve families earning 30-80% of area median income
  • Multiple programs can be combined for maximum assistance

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call Massachusetts 2-1-1 at 211 immediately for emergency assistance, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All calls are free and confidential with interpreter services available.

Need emergency shelter? Apply online through Massachusetts Housing Help Hub or call (866) 584-0653, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday for Emergency Assistance (EA) Family Shelter.

Can’t pay rent or utilities? Apply for RAFT emergency assistance – up to $7,000 available within 12 months for housing costs.

In danger? National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233 or Massachusetts Domestic Violence Hotline: (877) 785-2020

Emergency Housing Assistance

Emergency Assistance (EA) Family Shelter Program

On Oct. 31, 2023, the Secretary of the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities declared that the emergency assistance (EA) family shelter system is no longer able to meet all current and projected demand for shelter from families eligible for EA. The Secretary has extended the Declaration to November 9, 2025.

What it covers:

  • Temporary emergency shelter for families with children or pregnant women
  • Case management services
  • Housing search assistance
  • Connection to supportive services including childcare, job training, and education

Eligibility requirements:

  • Must be a Massachusetts resident
  • Must be pregnant or have children under 21
  • Meet income guidelines (generally below 30% Area Median Income for your region)
  • Must have a qualifying housing crisis such as:
    • No-fault eviction or foreclosure
    • Fleeing domestic violence
    • Natural disaster or fire
    • Health and safety risks in current housing

Income limits (2025 estimates):

Family Size Maximum Annual Income (30% AMI Boston Metro)
1 person $31,680
2 people $36,210
3 people $40,740
4 people $45,240

Note: Income limits vary by region within Massachusetts and are updated annually by HUD. Check with your local agency for exact figures.

How to apply: Apply online through the Massachusetts Housing Help Hub or call (866) 584-0653. Applications are processed during regular business hours.

Reality check: Due to high demand, eligible families may be placed on a contact list and given options for alternative housing assistance while waiting for shelter space. Don’t wait if you’re facing homelessness – apply immediately and ask about HomeBASE diversion assistance.

HomeBASE Program

Currently, most families eligible for EA are also eligible for housing-related assistance called HomeBASE, which provides up to $30,000 over twenty-four months to help avoid entering shelter or to transition out of shelter quickly.

What it covers:

  • First and last month’s rent & security deposit for a new apartment
  • Monthly financial assistance to help pay rent in MA
  • Moving costs and utility deposits
  • Rental arrears up to program limits
  • Support payments to stay with another household

How it works: To get HomeBASE, you must first be found eligible for Emergency Assistance, so it is important to complete an EA application even if you only want HomeBASE. A case manager helps connect you to additional community supports.

RAFT (Residential Assistance for Families in Transition)

The RAFT program provides short-term emergency funding to help you with eviction, foreclosure, loss of utilities, and other housing emergencies. This is Massachusetts’s primary emergency rental assistance program.

Benefits available: Eligible households can receive up to $7,000 in a 12-month period in state RAFT funds.

What it covers:

  • Past-due rent (with notice to quit or eviction notice required)
  • Security deposits and first month’s rent for new housing
  • Utility arrears with shut-off notices
  • Moving expenses
  • Effective July 1, 2023, the RAFT program is once again accepting applications from eligible Massachusetts homeowners in need of mortgage and/or utility assistance

Income requirements: Have a gross household income under 50% Area Median Income (AMI). Income eligibility will be based on current income. For households at risk of domestic violence, the limit increases to 60% AMI.

How to apply: Apply online through Massachusetts Housing Help Hub. The RAFT application takes 20-30 minutes to complete.

Processing time: It usually takes fewer than 30 days to get a response after you submit a RAFT application. Applications with all required information and documentation will be processed more quickly.

Reality check: RAFT funding is limited and distributed first-come, first-served. Some regionals are releasing funds within three weeks of receiving a complete application. Others need 12 weeks or longer. Apply immediately if facing eviction.

Community Action Agency Emergency Assistance

Massachusetts has Community Action Agencies serving all regions that provide crisis assistance including:

  • Emergency utility assistance
  • Food assistance
  • Transportation help
  • Connection to other local resources

Contact: Your local Community Action Agency offers help with eviction notices, rent or mortgage assistance, housing searches, help with move-in costs, and mediation in landlord/tenant disputes.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

Housing vouchers can help families and individuals rent apartments in the private market by paying a portion of the rent. This is the largest federal rental assistance program.

Income Eligibility (2025)

Federal Section 8: Families with dependents, seniors, and people with disabilities who make 50% or less of Boston’s Area Median Income (federal vouchers use Boston’s AMI for the whole state).

Family Size Very Low Income (50% AMI) Extremely Low Income (30% AMI)
1 person $52,800 $31,680
2 people $60,350 $36,210
3 people $67,900 $40,740
4 people $75,400 $45,240

Source: Based on Boston Metro Area AMI as federal vouchers use Boston’s AMI for the whole state

How it works: The amount of money paid depends on your family’s income. You’ll pay roughly 30% of your income in rent.

Application process:

  1. Apply for Section 8 with a Local Housing Authority (waitlist open) or Apply for Section 8 with an RAA (waitlist currently closed)
  2. Complete eligibility interview and background check
  3. Wait for voucher availability (typically 12-24 months)
  4. Attend voucher briefing when your name is called
  5. Search for qualifying rental unit
  6. Pass housing quality standards inspection

Reality check: Due to high demand, wait times for housing vouchers can be long. Additionally, voucher programs can sometimes close to new applications. Many housing authorities have waiting lists of 12-24 months, with some urban areas experiencing longer waits.

Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP)

Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP): People making 80% or less of the Area Median Income. This is a state-funded program with different income limits than federal Section 8.

Benefits:

  • Higher income limits than Section 8 (80% vs 50% AMI)
  • More flexibility in unit selection
  • Administered by local housing authorities

How to apply: You can apply through the Common Housing Application for Massachusetts Programs (CHAMP) website. This online system lets you apply for multiple state housing programs with one application.

Alternative Housing Voucher Program (AHVP)

Alternative Housing Voucher Program (AHVP): People with a disability who are under 60 when found eligible, and who make 80% or less of Area Median Income.

Eligibility:

  • Must have a disability
  • Must be under age 60 when found eligible
  • Income below 80% Area Median Income
  • Priority for people currently in or eligible for state-aided public housing

Public Housing

You may be eligible for public housing if your household earns less than 80% of the area median income. Public housing developments are owned and operated by local housing authorities.

Types available:

  • Family housing for households with children
  • Elderly/disabled housing for seniors and people with disabilities
  • Mixed-income communities

Application: Apply through the Common Housing Application for Massachusetts Programs (CHAMP) website. You’ll select programs based on where you want to live.

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP FY 2025 Benefit Heating: $200 minimum, $600 maximum Crisis: Winter $600. This federally funded program helps with heating and utility bills.

Income Eligibility (60% State Median Income)

Source: LIHEAP Income Eligibility Level 60% State Median Income

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $43,740
2 people $57,240
3 people $70,740
4 people $84,240
5 people $97,740

Application periods:

  • Heating: November 1 – August 30
  • Winter Crisis: November 1 – September 30

How to apply: Contact your local Community Action Agency. The online application opens on October 1, 2024 this heating season, which will last until April 30, 2025. Call the Cold Relief Heatline at (800) 632-8175 for more information.

Low-Income Discount Rates

Over a dozen gas, electric and combination IOUs offer utility rate discounts totaling nearly $40 million per year and ranging from 20 percent to 42 percent off the low-income customer bill.

Eligibility: Households earning less than 175 percent of Federal Poverty Guidelines, or receiving one of several means tested programs, including LIHEAP, Food Stamps, TANF and SSI are eligible.

Mass Save Energy Efficiency Programs

Mass Save offers no-cost energy assessments and rebates for energy-efficient appliances and home improvements. Services include:

  • Free home energy assessments
  • Insulation and air sealing
  • Heat pump rebates
  • Energy-efficient appliances rebates
  • 0% interest HEAT loans up to $25,000

Contact: Call 866-527-SAVE (7283) or visit masssave.com.

Homeownership Programs

MassHousing Down Payment Assistance

MassHousing provides eligible homebuyers with Down Payment Assistance of up to $30,000 when purchasing a home in every city and town in Massachusetts.

Program details:

  • Available to first-time homebuyers in Massachusetts
  • Must pair Down Payment Assistance with an affordable MassHousing Mortgage loan
  • Must complete a MassHousing-approved homebuyer education class

Property types: Single-family home, condominium, or 2-, 3- or 4-family property that will be your primary residence

How to apply: MassHousing has partnered with more than 80 lenders to make our affordable loans available to Massachusetts homebuyers. Contact a MassHousing lender to learn more, get pre-approved or apply today

FHA Loans

Federal Housing Administration loans offer:

  • Down payments as low as 3.5%
  • Credit scores as low as 580 accepted
  • Seller can pay closing costs
  • Mortgage insurance required

USDA Rural Housing (Limited Areas)

USDA programs are available in some rural parts of Massachusetts:

  • No down payment required
  • Below-market interest rates
  • Income limits based on area median income

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Several organizations provide transitional housing specifically for single mothers and families:

Family Promise Affiliates: Multiple locations across Massachusetts provide emergency and transitional housing with supportive services.

Local Programs: Contact 2-1-1 for transitional housing programs in your specific area.

Domestic Violence Housing

SafeLink Massachusetts: 24/7 hotline at (877) 785-2020 provides crisis support and housing assistance for survivors of domestic violence.

Services include:

  • Emergency shelter
  • Transitional housing programs
  • Rapid rehousing assistance
  • Safety planning and legal advocacy

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While Massachusetts has strong non-discrimination laws, finding affirming housing can still be challenging:

Legal protections: Massachusetts law prohibits housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Resources:

  • Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce: Business and housing referrals
  • Fenway Health: Healthcare and housing support for LGBTQ+ families
  • National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination resources

Local support: Contact your local Fair Housing organization if you experience discrimination.

Tribal-Specific Resources

Massachusetts does not have federally recognized tribes, but Native American families may access:

HUD Indian Housing Programs: Available to enrolled tribal members nationwide Native American Housing Assistance: Contact HUD’s Office of Native American Programs at (800) 955-2232

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families in western and central Massachusetts face unique challenges:

Transportation assistance:

  • Local Community Action Agencies may provide transportation vouchers
  • Some agencies offer gas cards for essential appointments
  • Regional Transit Authorities provide rural bus services

Service delivery:

  • Mobile service delivery available in some regions
  • Telehealth and virtual support services
  • Extended application deadlines for rural applicants

Single Fathers

All housing assistance programs described above are available regardless of gender:

Additional resources:

  • National At-Home Dad Network: Support groups and resources
  • Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups
  • Massachusetts Fathers’ Network: State-specific support

Resources by Region

Greater Boston Area

Metro Housing Boston

  • RAFT emergency assistance
  • Housing Consumer Education Center services
  • Housing counseling
  • Phone: (617) 425-6700
  • Website: metrohousingboston.org

Boston Housing Authority

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing
  • Address: 52 Chauncy Street, Boston, MA 02111
  • Phone: (617) 988-4000

Central Massachusetts

Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance (CMHA)

  • RAFT assistance
  • Emergency shelter coordination
  • Housing search assistance
  • Phone: (508) 753-8300
  • Counties: Worcester and surrounding areas

Community Teamwork (Lowell area)

  • RAFT emergency assistance
  • Housing Consumer Education Center
  • Supportive services
  • Phone: (978) 459-0551

Western Massachusetts

HAPHousing (Hampshire County)

  • Housing Consumer Education Center
  • RAFT assistance
  • First-time homebuyer programs
  • Phone: (413) 586-5855

Berkshire Community Action Council

  • LIHEAP utility assistance
  • Emergency assistance programs
  • Housing counseling
  • Phone: (413) 445-4503

North Shore

North Shore Community Action Programs

  • RAFT emergency assistance
  • LIHEAP utility help
  • Housing search assistance
  • Phone: (978) 283-1071
  • Counties: Essex and parts of Middlesex

South Shore & Cape Cod

South Shore Community Action Council

  • Emergency assistance programs
  • Housing counseling
  • Utility assistance
  • Phone: (508) 747-7575

Community Action Committee of Cape Cod

  • RAFT assistance
  • LIHEAP energy help
  • Housing stabilization services
  • Phone: (508) 771-5400

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8 in Massachusetts?

Due to high demand, wait times for housing vouchers can be long. Waiting times vary by region:

  • Urban areas (Boston, Cambridge, Worcester): 18-36 months
  • Suburban areas: 12-24 months
  • Some rural areas: 6-18 months

Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when they become too long. Check current waiting list status before applying.

Can I get RAFT if I already have Section 8?

Yes, you may be eligible for RAFT even if you receive housing vouchers. Though mass.gov is not completely clear on whether current participants in the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP) or Section 8 are RAFT-eligible, wording from the 2020 RAFT administrative plan states that “If a family is using RAFT to move into a unit with a subsidy, proof of the total contract rent and of the tenant’s rent share must be provided”.

What happens if my landlord won’t accept Section 8?

Massachusetts does not have source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. However, Chapter 151B of the Massachusetts General Laws prohibits discrimination by a landlord against any tenant receiving federal, state, or local housing subsidies, including rental assistance. Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords.

How quickly can I get RAFT assistance?

It usually takes fewer than 30 days to get a response after you submit a RAFT application. However, some regionals are releasing funds within three weeks of receiving a complete application. Others need 12 weeks or longer. Emergency cases are typically prioritized.

Can I apply for multiple housing programs at once?

Yes! Using the CHAMP site, you will be able to apply for state-aided public housing and state-funded rental vouchers with one application. You can also apply for federal programs like Section 8 separately and combine with emergency assistance like RAFT.

What if I’m denied Emergency Assistance shelter?

You have the right to appeal the decision. You’ll receive written notice with information about the appeals process. Don’t miss the deadline – usually 10-14 days from the denial date. You may also be eligible for HomeBASE assistance even if denied shelter.

Do I have to be a U.S. citizen to get housing help?

Requirements vary by program. Federal immigration status has no impact on eligibility for most of this funding for RAFT. However, federal programs like Section 8 typically require legal immigration status. Emergency assistance and some state programs may be available regardless of status.

Can I move to Massachusetts and get housing assistance?

EA Guidance requires applicants to prove Massachusetts residency and an intent to stay in Massachusetts by providing certain documents. Most programs require you to be a Massachusetts resident, but emergency assistance may be available immediately in crisis situations.

What if I have a criminal background?

An adult 18 years of age or older is not eligible for EA Family Shelter if they have been convicted or charged with certain crimes including serious violent felonies. However, many programs consider the nature and age of convictions. Some crimes may make you ineligible if recent but not if older than 3 years.

How do I get help with the applications?

Housing Consumer Education Centers (HCECs) provide free assistance with housing applications and searches. Your local Housing Consumer Education Center can help you with your housing search, accessing rental assistance programs, understanding your housing rights and more. Call 2-1-1 for referrals to your local HCEC.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8, public housing, or emergency assistance. Government programs are free to apply for.

Fake RAFT assistance: Only apply through official Massachusetts Housing Help Hub or authorized Housing Consumer Education Centers.

“Guaranteed” housing: No legitimate service can guarantee you’ll receive housing assistance or move to the front of waiting lists.

Current System Challenges

Limited shelter capacity: The emergency assistance (EA) family shelter system is no longer able to meet all current and projected demand for shelter from families eligible for EA. Apply immediately but have backup plans.

Long waiting lists: Most housing assistance programs have more applicants than available help. Apply to multiple programs simultaneously.

Funding limitations: Emergency assistance funding is limited and distributed first-come, first-served. Don’t wait if facing crisis.

Tips for Success

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously: Don’t wait to be denied by one program before applying to others.

Use CHAMP for state programs: The Common Housing Application for Massachusetts Programs allows you to apply for multiple programs with one application.

Keep organized records: Maintain copies of all applications, documents, and correspondence.

Follow up regularly: Contact agencies monthly to check on application status and provide additional information needed.

Get help navigating: Contact a Housing Consumer Education Center for free assistance with applications and housing searches.

Additional Resources

Massachusetts State Agencies

Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC)

  • Emergency Assistance and HomeBASE programs
  • RAFT program administration
  • Phone: (866) 584-0653
  • Website: mass.gov

Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)

  • Public housing oversight
  • State housing programs
  • Phone: (617) 573-1100

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

  • General housing information
  • Phone: (800) 569-4287
  • Website: hud.gov

Massachusetts HUD Office

  • Section 8 and public housing oversight
  • Fair housing enforcement
  • Address: 10 Causeway Street, Boston, MA 02222

Legal Aid

Massachusetts Legal Aid

  • Free legal help for housing issues
  • Eviction defense
  • Tenant rights information
  • Phone: (800) 696-1221
  • Website: masslegalservices.org

Greater Boston Legal Services

  • Housing law assistance
  • Tenant organizing support
  • Phone: (617) 371-1234

Financial Counseling

Massachusetts Affordable Housing Alliance

  • Homebuyer education and counseling
  • Foreclosure prevention
  • Phone: (617) 363-9141

National Foundation for Credit Counseling

  • Find certified financial counselors
  • Budgeting and credit repair assistance
  • Phone: (800) 388-2227

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Massachusetts guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, HUD, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, HUD, and local housing authority sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply.

For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

🏛️More Massachusetts Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Massachusetts

Related Posts