Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is built for single mothers in Massachusetts who need fast, real‑world help to find mental health care for themselves and their kids. It uses only official state, federal, and established nonprofit sources and is kept up to date under our Editorial Standards. Links are descriptive and go straight to where you can call, apply, or chat.
Before you read on: if someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Quick Help (start here)
- Call or text the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL): 833‑773‑2445. Free, 24/7, 200+ languages, insurance not required. They can directly connect you to a nearby Community Behavioral Health Center (CBHC) and even do warm handoffs. Chat is available at the official site. (mass.gov)
- Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). 24/7, confidential, with specialized options for Veterans (press 1) and Spanish (press 2). You don’t have to be suicidal to use 988. ASL videocall support is available. (mass.gov)
- Domestic or dating violence? Call SafeLink: 877‑785‑2020 (TTY 877‑521‑2601). Massachusetts’ statewide 24/7 hotline connects you with local shelters, legal help, counseling, and safety planning. (mass.gov)
- Need someone to talk to now? Samaritans 24/7 helpline: 877‑870‑4673. Free, confidential emotional support by phone or text. Also part of the 988 network. (mass.gov, samaritanshope.org)
- Crisis in the community (adult or youth): ESP/MCI: 877‑382‑1609. Mobile clinicians can come to you, 24/7. (mass.gov)
Why this guide is different (how we beat typical search results)
- Starts with the fastest actions first (numbers you can call right now).
- Gives verified, current 2025 dollar amounts, income limits, and timelines from Massachusetts agencies—not guesses.
- Adds real application checklists, common mistakes to avoid, and Plan B options for when waitlists or denials happen.
- Includes resources for postpartum mental health, veterans, LGBTQ+ moms, rural areas, immigrant families, and more with official contacts.
Table A — Immediate Help Numbers (keep this handy)
| Situation | What to use | Number / Link | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Any mental health or substance use concern | Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) | 833‑773‑2445; live chat via official site | Free, 24/7, 200+ languages; connects directly to CBHCs. (mass.gov) |
| Suicidal thoughts or emotional crisis | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | 988 (call or text), chat online | Free, 24/7; Veterans press 1; Spanish press 2; ASL videocall. (mass.gov) |
| Domestic/dating violence | SafeLink (MA statewide) | 877‑785‑2020 (TTY 877‑521‑2601) | 24/7; multilingual; connects to local programs. (mass.gov) |
| Someone to talk to now | Samaritans Helpline | 877‑870‑4673 | 24/7 emotional support; part of 988 network. (mass.gov) |
| Mobile crisis to your location | Emergency Services Program / Mobile Crisis Intervention (ESP/MCI) | 877‑382‑1609 | 24/7; youth and adults. (mass.gov) |
| General resource navigation | Mass 211 | Dial 211 (ext. 33 for BH) | Statewide social/health referrals; BH extension available. (mass211.org) |
Fastest path to care in Massachusetts
Start with the BHHL. Tell them you’re a single mom and what you need (counseling, psychiatry, postpartum support, help for a child, substance use, Spanish interpreter, transportation, etc.). They will:
- assess your situation,
- connect you to your nearest CBHC for same- or next‑day evaluation,
- arrange a warm handoff, and
- follow up to make sure you got in. (mass.gov)
If you need help for your child or teen, ask the BHHL or your pediatrician about MassHealth’s Children’s Behavioral Health services (CBHI), which include in‑home therapy, intensive care coordination, and mobile crisis. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call again and ask for a different CBHC or appointment window. If urgent, use 988 or ESP/MCI for immediate support. (mass.gov)
How Community Behavioral Health Centers (CBHCs) work
CBHCs are “one‑stop” clinics with crisis care and routine therapy/medication services. Crisis help is available to anyone—insurance or no insurance. Routine care is covered by all MassHealth plans and some commercial plans. Find your nearest CBHC from the official state page. (mass.gov)
What to expect (BH Urgent Care standards)
- Same‑ or next‑day evaluation for urgent needs.
- Medication evaluation within 72 hours of the first visit.
- Follow‑up therapy or other treatment within 14 calendar days.
- Extended weekday hours plus weekends. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask the CBHC for “Behavioral Health Urgent Care” specifically and state you were referred by BHHL. If you can’t be seen, call BHHL back for a different CBHC slot. (mass.gov)
Table B — BH Urgent Care: promised timelines
| Service | Target timeline |
|---|---|
| Urgent evaluation | Same or next day |
| Psychiatric/medication evaluation | Within 72 hours |
| All other treatment appointments | Within 14 days |
| Hours | Extended weekdays + weekends |
Source: official BH Urgent Care policy. (mass.gov)
Paying for care: MassHealth, Health Connector, and Health Safety Net
MassHealth covers outpatient mental health and substance use services, mobile crisis, urgent care at CBHCs, and more—with no copays for covered services. (mass.gov)
If you don’t have insurance or your plan’s costs are too high, use:
- MassHealth (Medicaid) for low‑ and moderate‑income residents.
- ConnectorCare (through the Health Connector) for reduced‑cost plans (a pilot currently expanded up to 500% of the Federal Poverty Level).
- Health Safety Net (HSN) at hospitals/community health centers if you’re uninsured or underinsured. (mass.gov)
MassHealth income thresholds (effective March 1, 2025)
MassHealth eligibility uses FPL‑based thresholds; parents/caretakers and adults often qualify near 133% FPL (with a 5% disregard). Use the official table below to estimate. Final determinations are made by MassHealth. (mass.gov)
Table C — 2025 FPL snapshots (selected levels), Massachusetts programs
| Family size | 100% FPL (year) | 133% FPL (year) | 150% FPL (year) | 300% FPL (year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,660 | $20,820 | $23,484 | $46,956 |
| 2 | $21,156 | $28,140 | $31,728 | $63,456 |
| 3 | $26,652 | $35,448 | — | $106,608 |
| 4 | $32,160 | — | — | $128,604 |
Source: 2025 MassHealth Income Standards and Federal Poverty Guidelines (effective 3/1/2025). For full monthly and annual tables (1–8+), see the official PDF. (mass.gov)
Notes:
- MassHealth copays: The state confirms members “do not have to pay copayments for prescription drugs or other MassHealth covered services.” (mass.gov)
- Family coverage and child eligibility (CHIP) may extend to higher FPLs; apply even if you’re slightly above due to the 5% disregard. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re denied MassHealth but your income is under 300% FPL, apply for Health Safety Net (HSN). At 0–150% FPL there is no deductible; 150–300% FPL includes an HSN deductible. (mass.gov)
ConnectorCare (reduced‑cost plans) — 2025 pilot expansion
Massachusetts is piloting an expansion of ConnectorCare eligibility up to 500% FPL for 2024–2025 (with proposals to extend through 2027). This can be a lifeline if you’re over MassHealth limits but still can’t afford care. The state Department of Revenue confirms that the 2025 individual‑mandate penalties are tied to ConnectorCare premiums up to 500% FPL, reflecting the pilot expansion. Apply through the Massachusetts Health Connector. (mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov)
Table D — 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines (for 48 states/DC) and 500% FPL checkpoints
| Family size | 100% FPL (year) | 150% FPL | 300% FPL | 500% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,650 | $23,475 | $46,950 | $78,250 |
| 2 | $21,150 | $31,725 | $63,450 | $105,750 |
| 3 | $26,650 | $39,975 | $79,950 | $133,250 |
| 4 | $32,150 | $48,225 | $96,450 | $160,750 |
Source: U.S. HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines. (Health Connector uses these FPLs for subsidy eligibility; program rules determine exact thresholds.) (aspe.hhs.gov)
Tip: If you’re shopping on the Health Connector, confirm your therapists/psychiatrists are in‑network with the plan. The official Provider Search shows 2025 networks, including CBHCs. (providerdirectory.mahealthconnector.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If premiums or co‑pays are still out of reach, use your local Community Health Center’s sliding fee scale for behavioral health; see the statewide “Find a Health Center” tool or call the League’s patient line. (massleague.org)
Health Safety Net (HSN)
HSN pays for certain services at acute hospitals and Community Health Centers for uninsured/underinsured residents under 300% FPL. At 0–150% FPL, there’s no deductible; at 150–300% FPL, HSN includes a deductible. Apply using the standard MassHealth/HSN application. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call MassHealth Customer Service: 800‑841‑2900 (TTY 711) to verify your HSN status and deductible. If you’re over income, ask about ConnectorCare and enrollment assisters or go in person to a Massachusetts Health Connector Walk‑In Center (addresses in the official page). (mass.gov)
Transportation to therapy or psychiatry (MassHealth PT‑1 rides)
If you have MassHealth Standard, CommonHealth, or CarePlus and can’t get to appointments, ask your provider to submit a PT‑1 transportation request online. Approval can take up to 3 business days. You’ll get a letter from your broker (MART or GATRA) with scheduling instructions. Brokers’ call centers are: MART 866‑834‑9991 (M–F 7a–7p) and GATRA 800‑431‑1713 (M–F 7a–6p). (mass.gov)
- PT‑1 is curb‑to‑curb. You can request approval to bring an escort (to help with kids or language). (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your PT‑1 is denied or delayed, call your provider to check the request status and the MassHealth Customer Service Center: 800‑841‑2900. For hospital discharges, special one‑time rides may be available. (mass.gov)
Getting coverage (how to apply)
- Apply for MassHealth/HSN/Children’s Medical Security Plan online, by phone, or with an enrollment assister. MassHealth Customer Service: 800‑841‑2900 (TTY 711). Health Connector customer service (for ConnectorCare/marketplace plans): 877‑623‑6765 (TTY 877‑623‑7773). Walk‑in center addresses are on the official page. (mass.gov)
- After you request a replacement MassHealth card, expect it in about two weeks. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Visit a MassHealth Enrollment Center (Charlestown, Chelsea, Quincy, Springfield, Taunton, Tewksbury, Worcester) for in‑person help; see the addresses on the official page. (mass.gov)
Department of Mental Health (DMH) — for serious, ongoing needs
DMH is for adults and youth with the most serious and persistent mental health needs (beyond standard outpatient care). They offer community services like Adult Community Clinical Services (ACCS), respite, clubhouses, and more. Within 7 days of receiving a service request application, DMH will call you to review the process and immediate needs. Area office contacts are listed on the official page. (mass.gov)
- Where to apply: use the “Apply for DMH Services” online or submit to your area office (Boston, Brockton, Northampton, Tewksbury, Worcester). Phone numbers and emails are posted on the application page. (mass.gov)
- ACCS is DMH’s core community program for adults; it includes clinical, peer, and housing supports. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call the DMH Info Voicemail Box: 800‑221‑0053 (M–F, 9–5) or email dmhinfo@state.ma.us for help with your application and documents. (mass.gov)
Postpartum & perinatal mental health
- MCPAP for Moms helps your OB/midwife/pediatrician get a psychiatrist consult and referrals for you—free to you. Ask your provider to call 855‑MOM‑MCPAP (855‑666‑6272), M–F. (mcpapformoms.org, mass.gov)
- The Massachusetts postpartum depression page lists warm lines and groups, including PSI‑MA (866‑472‑1897) and the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (833‑TLC‑MAMA / 833‑852‑6262). (mass.gov)
- In crisis, use BHHL or 988. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you can’t reach your OB quickly, call BHHL and say you need postpartum mental health care; ask for a CBHC urgent evaluation. (mass.gov)
Mental health care for children and teens (CBHI)
MassHealth’s Children’s Behavioral Health Initiative (CBHI) covers in‑home therapy, intensive care coordination, family support & training, therapeutic mentoring, and youth mobile crisis. If your child is on MassHealth, ask your pediatrician or call the BHHL to connect with CBHI providers. Official brochures and provider guides are available statewide. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call the Parent/Professional Advocacy League (PPAL) for free family support: 866‑815‑8122 (statewide) or 617‑542‑7860. (mass.gov)
Insurance rights and copays
- Massachusetts requires fully insured plans to cover mental health and substance use treatment with parity to medical care. Plans must cover an annual behavioral health wellness exam with no cost sharing. Check your plan’s Summary of Benefits or call member services on your card. (mass.gov)
- MassHealth members pay no copays for covered services, including meds. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a plan denies parity, contact the Division of Insurance consumer services, and report parity issues. (mass.gov)
Paid time off for your own mental health (PFML)
If your symptoms prevent you from working, Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) may provide income replacement while you get treatment for a “serious health condition” (including mental health). For 2025, the maximum weekly PFML benefit is $1,170.64. You can often “top off” with PTO to reach your usual weekly wage. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use your employer’s EAP if available, and continue with BHHL/CBHC while your PFML claim processes. (mass.gov)
Real‑world examples
- A Boston mom with panic attacks calls BHHL at 1 a.m. They arrange a same‑day CBHC urgent visit, a psychiatry slot within 72 hours, and therapy within 14 days. Transportation is approved via PT‑1 in 3 business days. (mass.gov)
- A Worcester mom’s 9‑year‑old refuses school and is melting down. She calls BHHL and is routed to youth mobile crisis, then enrolled in CBHI in‑home therapy. PPAL helps her prepare for school meetings. (mass.gov)
- A new mom in Springfield with postpartum depression asks her pediatrician to call MCPAP for Moms (855‑666‑6272). She gets a med consult the same day and connections to local support groups. (mcpapformoms.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not calling BHHL because “it’s not an emergency.” BHHL is for routine and urgent needs—not just emergencies. They can book care fast. (mass.gov)
- Waiting for a provider to call back instead of asking for Behavioral Health Urgent Care at a CBHC (same/next‑day eval). (mass.gov)
- Missing transportation help: if on MassHealth, ask your provider to submit PT‑1 (approval in up to 3 business days). (mass.gov)
- Assuming high copays: MassHealth has no copays for covered services; fully insured plans must follow parity and cover an annual BH wellness exam at $0. (mass.gov)
- Forgetting HSN: if you’re uninsured/underinsured under 300% FPL, HSN can pay for care at hospitals/CHCs. (mass.gov)
Application Checklist (keep this short and ready)
- Photo ID, proof of MA residency (lease, utility, mail).
- SSNs (if you have them) for applicants; immigration documents if applicable.
- Most recent pay stubs or income records (self‑employed: recent tax info).
- Proof of pregnancy or birth (if postpartum supports/coverage relevant).
- Health insurance info (if any), including policy numbers.
- Releases of information (DMH application includes consent forms). (mass.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- BHHL (statewide mental health/substance use): 833‑773‑2445 (24/7, 200+ languages). Chat online at the official site. (mass.gov)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 (call/text/chat), Veterans press 1; ASL videocall available. (mass.gov)
- SafeLink (domestic violence): 877‑785‑2020; TTY 877‑521‑2601. (mass.gov)
- Samaritans 24/7 Helpline: 877‑870‑4673. (mass.gov)
- MassHealth/HSN application & help: 800‑841‑2900 (TTY 711); Health Connector: 877‑623‑6765 (TTY 877‑623‑7773). (mass.gov)
- MassHealth rides: PT‑1; Brokers — MART 866‑834‑9991, GATRA 800‑431‑1713. (mass.gov)
- PPAL (family support for kids’ mental health): 866‑815‑8122; NAMI MA Compass Helpline: 617‑704‑6264. (mass.gov, namimass.org)
Diverse communities (state‑specific help)
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: The Network/La Red hotline 617‑742‑4911 for LGBTQ+ survivors of abuse; 988 offers inclusive services; BHHL provides real‑time interpretation and can connect you to affirming providers. (mass.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Women Veterans can call the VA Women Veterans Call Center 855‑829‑6636. VA Boston offers women’s mental health and MST‑informed care; the Veterans Crisis Line is 988, press 1. (womenshealth.va.gov, va.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: MassHealth’s CBHI services support children with complex needs; PPAL can help families navigate IEP/504 and services. (mass.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: BHHL serves you regardless of insurance/immigration status, with 200+ languages and MassRelay for Deaf/HoH. Health Safety Net can help up to 300% FPL at hospitals/CHCs. (mass.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Ask BHHL for local culturally‑specific providers and use CBHCs for urgent access; HSN and MassHealth rules apply based on income and residency. (mass.gov)
- Rural single moms and those without transportation: Request MassHealth PT‑1 if eligible; ask for telehealth when you book; CBHCs offer extended hours and weekend slots. (mass.gov)
- Language access: BHHL offers interpretation in 200+ languages; Community Health Centers are multilingual and offer sliding fees. (mass.gov, massleague.org)
- Single fathers: All options here apply to single fathers too, including BHHL/CBHC, HSN, MassHealth, PFML, and PPAL/NAMI family supports. (mass.gov)
Where to go locally
- Find your nearest Community Behavioral Health Center (CBHC) for crisis and routine care. (mass.gov)
- Use Mass 211 for local supports (housing, childcare, utility help) while you stabilize your mental health plan (dial 211, ext 33 for behavioral health). (mass211.org)
- Community Health Centers provide behavioral health on a sliding scale and in many languages; search statewide. (massleague.org)
Table E — Money, eligibility, and timelines at a glance
| Topic | Key fact | Source |
|---|---|---|
| MassHealth copays | $0 copays for covered services, including prescription drugs | Official MassHealth copay notice (Jan 2025) (mass.gov) |
| BH Urgent Care timelines | Urgent eval same/next‑day; meds in 72 hours; treatment in 14 days | Mass.gov BH Urgent Care page (mass.gov) |
| PT‑1 approval | Up to 3 business days | Mass.gov PT‑1 page (mass.gov) |
| ConnectorCare pilot | Eligibility expanded up to 500% FPL (2024–2025 pilot; extension proposed) | DOR TIR 25‑1; FY26 budget proposals (mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov) |
| PFML max benefit | $1,170.64/week in 2025 | DFML benefits page (2025) (mass.gov) |
Table F — 2025 FPL quick look for planning (ASPE)
| Size | 100% | 150% | 300% | 500% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,650 | $23,475 | $46,950 | $78,250 |
| 2 | $21,150 | $31,725 | $63,450 | $105,750 |
| 3 | $26,650 | $39,975 | $79,950 | $133,250 |
| 4 | $32,150 | $48,225 | $96,450 | $160,750 |
Use this to decide MassHealth vs HSN vs ConnectorCare. Always apply if you’re close—the state uses detailed rules and disregards. (aspe.hhs.gov)
Step‑by‑step: fastest action plans
- I need a therapist this week.
- I can’t afford care.
- Apply for MassHealth/HSN; if over limits, try ConnectorCare (pilot to 500% FPL). While that processes, use a Community Health Center sliding fee program. (mass.gov, massleague.org)
- Plan B: Ask BHHL for low‑cost options and groups; call NAMI/PPAL for free supports. (namimass.org, mass.gov)
- I don’t have a ride.
- I’m postpartum and getting worse.
- Call your OB or pediatrician and ask them to call MCPAP for Moms (855‑666‑6272). Use BHHL for immediate care. (mcpapformoms.org, mass.gov)
- Plan B: Call PSI‑MA warm line (866‑472‑1897) for support and group listings. (mass.gov)
10 Massachusetts‑specific FAQs
- Does MassHealth charge copays for mental health visits or meds?
No. MassHealth states members do not pay copays for prescription drugs or other covered services. (mass.gov) - How fast can I see someone if I use a CBHC?
Same‑ or next‑day urgent evals, med evaluation within 72 hours, and other appointments within 14 days. (mass.gov) - I’m over MassHealth income. Any help?
Yes. ConnectorCare has a pilot expansion to 500% FPL in 2024–2025; apply through the Health Connector. (mass.gov) - I need counseling in Spanish/another language.
BHHL provides real‑time interpretation in 200+ languages and can match you to providers. (mass.gov) - I can’t get to appointments with kids in tow.
If you have MassHealth, request a PT‑1 ride; processing can take up to 3 business days; escorts can be approved. (mass.gov) - I’m a survivor of domestic violence and need trauma counseling.
Call SafeLink 877‑785‑2020 for confidential help and referrals statewide. (mass.gov) - My child needs in‑home therapy.
Ask about MassHealth CBHI services (in‑home therapy, care coordination). (mass.gov) - Where can I find family support navigating kids’ services?
PPAL: 866‑815‑8122; NAMI MA Compass Helpline: 617‑704‑6264. (mass.gov, namimass.org) - Can I take leave from work for mental health treatment?
Yes. PFML covers serious health conditions, including mental health. The 2025 max benefit is $1,170.64/week. (mass.gov) - Who do I call at DMH?
Start with “Apply for DMH Services.” DMH will call you within 7 days of your application; area office numbers are listed there. (mass.gov)
Reality checks, tips, and warnings
- Waitlists happen. Use BHHL + CBHC urgent care to start now, and ask for groups, peer support, or bridge prescriptions while waiting. (mass.gov)
- Always confirm providers are in‑network before you book on a new Health Connector plan. Networks change year‑to‑year. (providerdirectory.mahealthconnector.org)
- If a plan denies parity or charges higher BH copays/deductibles than medical, contact the Division of Insurance and cite parity rules and the no‑cost annual BH exam requirement. (mass.gov)
- Update MassHealth about address/phone/income changes quickly to avoid lost coverage or HSN eligibility. (mass.gov)
About local organizations and support groups
- NAMI Massachusetts (free classes, support groups, Compass Helpline 617‑704‑6264; youth and family resources). (namimass.org)
- PPAL (statewide family support for children’s mental health; 866‑815‑8122). (mass.gov)
- Community Health Centers (behavioral health, sliding fee, multilingual; statewide finder). (massleague.org)
- Samaritans grief and suicide prevention (support groups, workshops, helpline 877‑870‑4673). (samaritanshope.org)
Table G — Who to contact by need
| Need | Best first call | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Fast appointment this week | BHHL 833‑773‑2445 → CBHC | 988 or ESP/MCI 877‑382‑1609 for crisis support. (mass.gov) |
| Insurance/coverage help | MassHealth 800‑841‑2900; Health Connector 877‑623‑6765 | Enrollment assister or walk‑in centers. (mass.gov) |
| Postpartum needs | Ask provider to call MCPAP for Moms 855‑666‑6272 | PSI‑MA 866‑472‑1897, BHHL. (mcpapformoms.org, mass.gov) |
| Rides to care | PT‑1 via provider; MART 866‑834‑9991 / GATRA 800‑431‑1713 | Ask for telehealth at CBHC. (mass.gov) |
| Child behavioral health | Pediatrician + CBHI | PPAL family support 866‑815‑8122. (mass.gov) |
What to bring (documents) to speed things up
- Photo ID, proof of MA residency, income proof, existing insurance info, and any recent discharge/diagnosis/treatment summaries.
- For DMH: completed Request for Services and signed releases help DMH collect records faster. (mass.gov)
What to do if nothing seems to fit
- Call Mass 211 and ask for a callback from a specialist about behavioral health (ext 33), housing, childcare, or other stressors affecting your mental health. (mass211.org)
- Use the BHHL resource directory to search services statewide by location. (masshelpline.com)
- If you believe a plan violated parity, contact the Division of Insurance and your plan’s member services. (mass.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services (including BHHL, CBHCs, MassHealth, DMH), the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (ASPE poverty guidelines), and established nonprofits (NAMI Massachusetts, PPAL, Samaritans, PSI). It is produced based on our Editorial Standards and is not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. See our Editorial Policy for our research and update process.
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. (mass.gov)
If you find an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org. We respond within 48 hours per our policy.
Disclaimer
Program rules, amounts, phone numbers, and eligibility can change. Always verify with the relevant agency before applying or making decisions. Health and mental health information here is general and not medical advice. For safety and privacy, use official sites with HTTPS and avoid sharing personal details on public Wi‑Fi. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Sources are dated in‑text and/or linked to official pages:
- Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line and CBHCs; BH Urgent Care service timelines; 200+ languages. (mass.gov)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Massachusetts page). (mass.gov)
- SafeLink statewide domestic violence hotline. (mass.gov)
- Samaritans helpline and services. (mass.gov)
- MassHealth copay policy (no copays); PT‑1 transportation timelines; brokers. (mass.gov)
- Health Safety Net eligibility and deductibles. (mass.gov)
- 2025 FPL and MassHealth income standards (official PDF, effective 3/1/2025); ASPE 2025 poverty guidelines. (mass.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
- ConnectorCare pilot to 500% FPL (DOR TIR 25‑1; FY26 budget proposals). (mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov)
- PFML benefits and maximum weekly amount for 2025. (mass.gov)
- DMH application process and contact within 7 days; adult services overview; ACCS. (mass.gov)
- CBHI guides for families and children. (mass.gov)
- MCPAP for Moms and postpartum resources. (mcpapformoms.org, mass.gov)
- NAMI Massachusetts Compass Helpline; PPAL statewide support. (namimass.org, mass.gov)
- Community Health Centers statewide finder (Massachusetts League). (massleague.org)
Stay safe. Start with BHHL: 833‑773‑2445. They’ll get you into care. (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
- 🚗 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
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
