Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Massachusetts

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, no-fluff guide to help you cut travel costs, get rides when you need them, and keep your car and license in good standing. Every section starts with the action you should take first, and ends with a Plan B if that doesn’t work. Save or screenshot the “Quick Help Box,” the “Cheat Sheet,” and the “Application Checklist.”

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Apply for MBTA’s new low‑income reduced fare right now: It cuts most MBTA fares about 50% and also discounts The RIDE; apply online in minutes through the official portal at MBTA Income‑Eligible Reduced Fares, get in‑person help at ABCD MBTA Reduced Fare Support, or check statewide support sites via MASSCAP Community Action Agencies. (mbta.com)
• If you have MassHealth and need a ride to medical care this week: Ask your provider to submit a PT‑1 transportation request, then schedule rides with your assigned broker (MART or GATRA) through MassHealth PT‑1 instructions, call MART Brokerage at 1-866-834-9991, or call GATRA Brokerage at 1-800-431-1713. (mass.gov)
• Getting TAFDC and commuting to work, school, or child care: Make sure you’re receiving DTA’s automatic $80/month transportation support on your EBT for approved activities; confirm in your DTA Connect messages and see DTA Get Child Care and Transportation Help, check general program rules at TAFDC overview, and read “supports while getting TAFDC” at While Getting TAFDC. (mass.gov)

Quick Help Box — Key Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• MassHealth rides (PT‑1) and member help: Call 1-800-841-2900 or TTY 711 at MassHealth Member Customer Service; ride scheduling info at Get a ride to MassHealth appointments; broker contacts at MART/GATRA booking. (mass.gov)
• Mass 211 statewide resource line (24/7): Dial 2‑1‑1 or see Mass 211 Transportation; emergency information at Call 2‑1‑1 (MEMA); general portal at Mass 211 home. (mass211.org)
• MBTA reduced fares and The RIDE: See MBTA Income‑Eligible Reduced Fares; The RIDE fares at RIDE fares page; how to apply for The RIDE at Apply for The RIDE. (mbta.com)
• MBTA fare‑free routes in Boston: Routes 23, 28, and 29 are free through March 2026; details at Boston Free Route Program, policy note at MBTA project page, and Mayor’s update at Boston.gov news. (boston.gov)
• Disability placards and accommodations at RMV: Apply at RMV Disability Placard/Plate; replace a placard at Replace disability placard; find eligibility rules at Placard eligibility. (mass.gov)

How to Cut Your Transit Costs Today

MBTA low‑income reduced fares — half‑price travel on almost everything

Start here if you live or travel in the MBTA area. The MBTA’s new income‑eligible program cuts most MBTA fares roughly 50% for ages 18–64, including bus, subway, Commuter Rail, ferry, and The RIDE; apply at MBTA Income‑Eligible Reduced Fares, get help at ABCD Reduced Fare Support, or review program background at MBTA news release. Seniors get matching discounts on The RIDE standard and premium trips, and Youth Pass participants were migrated when the program launched on September 4, 2024. (mbta.com)

• What you’ll save: A subway one‑way is $2.40fullfarebut$1.10 with a reduced card; see fares at MBTA Subway Fares, The RIDE standard is $3.35($1.70 reduced), and premium is $5.60($2.80 reduced) on RIDE fares; research and cost projections are summarized in MBTA board approval update. (mbta.com)
• Who qualifies fast: If you are on SNAP, TAFDC, EAEDC, or many MassHealth plans, you can verify eligibility easily; check the full list at MBTA eligibility page, apply online in multiple languages via MBTA application portal, or get help in person through MASSCAP community agencies. (mbta.com)
• Timeline: Online approvals are often quick, but allow a few business days; in‑person sites can issue on the spot in many cases; read the launch details at MBTA program launch, and note current enforcement of fare payment with $50 first‑offense fines beginning September 8, 2025 on Axios Boston coverage. (mbta.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Try free routes where they exist like Boston Routes 23/28/29, ask your city for a former Youth Pass referral if you’re 18–25, or use a Community Action Agency navigator from MASSCAP to troubleshoot. (boston.gov)

Ride free or cheap on Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs) across Massachusetts

Outside the MBTA, many RTAs are fare‑free or very low cost right now. Check your local agency’s site before you pay. Use MassMobility “Find a ride”, scan the free‑fare grant news at MassDOT RTA grants, and confirm agency pages like MeVa Transit (Merrimack Valley). (mass.gov)

• Where rides are free now: Worcester’s WRTA shows “Currently Fare‑Free through June 2026,” MeVa in the Merrimack Valley is “100% FARE FREE” permanently, and SRTA has extended fare‑free through June 2026; see WRTA homepage, MeVa advisory board decision, and SRTA updates. (therta.com)
• Where fares are low but not free: PVTA bus is typically $1.50withpassesavailable,BRTAlocalfareis$1.55–$1.75dependingonpayment,andGATRAis$1.50 full‑fare with half‑fare options; check PVTA fares, BRTA fares, and GATRA fares. (pvta.com)
• Cape Cod is free on fixed routes: All CCRTA fixed routes are free daily; verify at CCRTA Fares & Passes and see ADA/DART details at CCRTA payment page and reduced fare eligibility. (capecodrta.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the state’s trip tool Ride Match, call MassOptions (Aging/Disability resource) at 1-800-243-4636 for local senior or disability shuttles, or check your Council on Aging via MassMobility for town‑run rides. (mass.gov)

Need a medical ride quickly with MassHealth? Use PT‑1 correctly

Ask your provider’s office to file an online PT‑1 right away if you have no other ride to a covered appointment; see MassHealth “Get a ride” page, clinical instructions at PT‑1 for providers, and broker scheduling directions at MART/GATRA PT‑1. (mass.gov)

• Booking and hold times: Schedule at least three days in advance when possible; phone lines are busiest Monday mornings and midday; exact guidance is posted at MassHealth NEMT info, and general member contacts are at MassHealth Customer Service. (mass.gov)
• Complaints or a missed ride: File with your broker so they can fix it within 24 hours; procedures and contacts are listed on “Get a ride” complaint steps with emails and phone numbers for HST Office if needed. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your plan about One Care/SCO/PACE transport if you’re enrolled, call Mass 211 for volunteer drivers near you, or contact your clinic’s social worker for taxi vouchers funded by grants. (mass211.org)

Already getting TAFDC? Turn on your monthly $80 transportation support

DTA adds $80/month to help you get to work, school, training, or child care when you’re in an approved activity; confirm in DTA Get Child Care & Transportation Help, check your case via While Getting TAFDC, and review how to apply at TAFDC application page. (mass.gov)

• Good to know: If you’re working while on TAFDC, your cash may not drop for six months if household income stays under 200% FPL; see thresholds in the While Getting TAFDC chart and ask your worker about child care referrals at DTA Pathways to Work. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Join a SNAP Path to Work program to unlock transport help if you’re SNAP‑only; provider claims and reimbursements run through DTA PATH portal, and outreach partners that can help you apply for SNAP or SNAP E&T are listed at SNAP Outreach partners. (mass.gov)

If you drive — cut costs and protect your ability to drive

• Use commuter benefits if your employer offers them: Massachusetts excludes up to $325/monthin2025fortransitorvanpooland$325 for parking from taxable income; details are at Massachusetts Commuter Tax Exclusion and general fringe guidance at Employee Fringe Benefits; save receipts and passes as suggested on DOF commuter guidance. (mass.gov)
• If your license is at risk or suspended: Check what you owe and how to reinstate at Reinstate your driver’s license, ask about hardship license eligibility at RMV hardship license, and learn about non‑motor suspensions like child support at Non‑motor vehicle suspensions. (mass.gov)
• Auto insurance problems or cancellations: The state can help resolve denials or sudden non‑renewals; call Division of Insurance Consumer Services, file a complaint at Insurance Complaint, and read consumer rights at DOI Consumer Services. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For towing, bus, or moving complaints, try DPU consumer division contacts, or ask a legal aid referral through Massachusetts Legal Resource Finder which lists Attorney General and consumer hotlines. (mass.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

MBTA, RTA, and Medical Ride Details You’ll Actually Use

MBTA fares and passes you’ll see most

• Subway and bus fares: Full subway one‑way $2.40;reduced$1.10; see MBTA Subway Fares; the reduced card also halves The RIDE standard ($3.35\to$1.70) and premium ($5.60\to$2.80) per RIDE fares; use your card when asked on reduced fare policies. (mbta.com)
• Fare enforcement is increasing: As of September 8, 2025, the MBTA began warnings and fines for unpaid fares, with $50 first‑offense citations; coverage and dates are at Axios Boston; discounted options are still emphasized in MBTA reduced fare news; keep proof of eligibility handy. (axios.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you were using Youth Pass, switch to the new income‑eligible card through MBTA’s portal; if you qualify by disability or age, a TAP/Statewide Access Pass or MBTA Senior can also halve fares; ask for help at ABCD application centers. (capecodrta.org)

MassHealth medical rides without the back‑and‑forth

• One form per location: Your provider must submit a separate PT‑1 for each clinic or service; see the step‑by‑step at PT‑1 process and the provider portal info at Request transportation; if you’re in One Care/SCO/PACE, call your plan directly as listed on PT‑1 extra help. (mass.gov)
• Brokers and apps: Most of MA uses MART, some use GATRA; call centers and apps are linked from MassHealth NEMT; for problems booking or no‑shows, follow the complaint steps on “Get a ride” page and escalate to the HST Office if needed. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic for social work transport funds, call MassOptions for local wheelchair or chair‑car options, or browse Ride Match for private and nonprofit providers. (massoptions.org)

Car seats and child passenger safety — free installs and checks

You can book a free car‑seat inspection statewide with a certified tech; search locations at Mass car seat inspection sites, schedule with Boston EMS seat checks, or call the Massachusetts State Police at 774‑462‑3766 listed in car seat inspection list. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatrician for a referral to a Child Passenger Safety Technician, email the statewide trainer at Baystate shown on Mass.gov inspection page, or call your town’s police or fire department listings on Mass car seat sites. (mass.gov)

Tables You Can Scan Fast

MBTA and The RIDE — the amounts that matter

Where bus rides are free (or cheap) in 2025

Funding for fare‑free pilots and service in 2025 came through the state budget’s RTA grant program; see the Administration’s announcement at MassDOT news and House budget coverage at AP News. (mass.gov)

MassHealth PT‑1 — what to expect after approval

TAFDC & DTA supports that reduce travel cost

Car‑seat safety — where to get help quickly

How to Get and Use a Disability Placard or The RIDE if you have a disability

Start with eligibility: Review disability placard rules at RMV Placard Eligibility, download the application on Apply for a Placard/Plate, and keep the plastic privacy sleeve if you want it as described on eligibility details. (mass.gov)

• Processing time: Plan for about 30 business days; RMV lists timelines and no fee for a replacement on Replace a placard; call RMV Medical Affairs at 857‑368‑8020 if needed (TTY via MassRelay 711). (mass.gov)
• Apply for The RIDE: If a disability prevents you from using fixed‑route transit, schedule an in‑person eligibility interview at Apply for The RIDE; ask about RIDE Flex (Uber/Lyft option) on The RIDE info page; and link your reduced fare status to get half‑price RIDE trips per MBTA reduced fare launch. TTY services are available via 711, and you can request large‑print application materials when you call. (mbta.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call MassOptions for travel training or local paratransit alternatives, ask MassAbility about adaptive driving aids, or contact your city’s Council on Aging listed via MassMobility for door‑to‑door rides. (massoptions.org)

Local Organizations, Charities, and Faith Groups That Sometimes Help with Rides

Funding is limited and changes fast. Always call first to confirm availability.

• Community Action Agencies (CAA): Find your local CAA at MASSCAP Agencies Map; they often distribute bus passes during job programs or give small, one‑time fuel or repair assistance; see statewide role at MASSCAP home and energy help examples at ABCD Fuel Assistance. (masscap.org)
• Catholic Charities Boston: Basic needs assistance varies by county; contact locations listed at Living Assistance, see general services at Basic Needs, and dial Mass 211 for similar local charities if a site is out of funds. (ccab.org)
• United Way of Massachusetts Bay: Their emergency United Response grants flow through local partners; see United Response Fund, regional information at United Way MA Bay, or call 2‑1‑1 at Mass 211 to be routed. (unitedwaymassbay.org)
• Good News Garage — Massachusetts programs: Some donated vehicles are awarded through partner referrals; see Good News Garage Massachusetts, how their awards work at All Programs, and contact info at GNG Contact. (goodnewsgarage.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your social worker to search Ride Match, check Mass 211 Transportation, or connect with MassHire career centers about supportive services for training participants. (mass.gov)

Resources by Region — Who to call and where to ride

• Greater Boston: Use MBTA reduced fares, check free Routes 23/28/29 through March 2026, and apply for The RIDE via mobility center; call Mass 211 for local agencies. (mbta.com)
• Merrimack Valley (Lawrence, Haverhill, Newburyport): Ride free on MeVa Transit, confirm schedules at MeVa alerts, and seek help via MASSCAP Agencies. (mevatransit.com)
• Worcester/Central MA: Take WRTA fare‑free, reach the Montachusett region shuttle/taxi program MART Connects, and use MassHealth broker MART. (therta.com)
• South Coast (Fall River/New Bedford): SRTA is fare‑free through June 2026; use Mass 211 for non‑profits near you; MBTA’s reduced fare applies if you travel into the T. (frmedia.org)
• Pioneer Valley (Springfield/Holyoke/Amherst): Fares at PVTA; check seniors’ options at PVTA Seniors; find car‑seat help via statewide inspections. (pvta.com)
• Berkshires: BRTA fares; note past fare‑free periods via BRTA announcements at BRTA news; use MASSCAP for local CAAs. (berkshirerta.gov)
• Cape Cod & Islands: CCRTA fixed‑route free, ADA/DART fares at CCRTA payment, and reduced fare programs. (capecodrta.org)
• MetroWest (Framingham/Natick/Marlborough): MWRTA fare‑free, demand‑response rides via MWRTA Dial‑A‑Ride, and 2‑1‑1 at Mass 211. (mwrta.com)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not applying for the MBTA reduced fare because you “only use bus sometimes”: The 50% discount applies on almost every MBTA mode and can also slash The RIDE fares; apply at MBTA reduced fares, and get in‑person help at ABCD sites; benefits are expected to serve 60,000+ riders based on MBTA forecasts. (mbta.com)
• Waiting too late to book PT‑1 rides: Brokers ask for three business days when possible; schedule via MART/GATRA; if denied, re‑check eligibility at MassHealth ride page; call to confirm availability before your appointment day. (mass.gov)
• Missing the TAFDC $80/month transportation support: It’s automatic while you’re in an approved activity; verify with DTA or DTA Child Care & Transportation and TAFDC page. (mass.gov)
• Ignoring local RTA freebies: Many systems are fare‑free right now; check WRTA, MeVa, and SRTA updates. (therta.com)

Reality Check — Things That Slow Applications Down

• MBTA reduced fare card backlogs: During big pushes, in‑person lines and mail time can stretch; use the online process at MBTA reduced fares, visit an ABCD help site early morning, and keep a screenshot of approval. According to MBTA announcements in 2024–2025, they expected tens of thousands of new enrollees. (mbta.com)
• PT‑1 trip windows: Mondays and 9–11 a.m. are peak hold times; book mid‑week or via the app if your broker offers it; details are posted on NEMT page and Get a Ride. (mass.gov)
• Funding shortages for small grants: Charity funds can run dry. Try Mass 211 to find backups, check MASSCAP agencies, and ask your town’s social services via MassOptions if you have a disability or are a senior. (mass211.org)

Application Checklist — Screenshot‑Friendly

• MBTA reduced fare: Photo ID; proof of program enrollment (SNAP, TAFDC, MassHealth, EAEDC, MASSGrant); apply at MBTA reduced fares; in‑person help ABCD. (mbta.com)
• The RIDE (ADA): Medical info about disability for eligibility interview; schedule at Apply for The RIDE; fare info at RIDE fares. (mbta.com)
• PT‑1 rides (MassHealth): MassHealth ID; your provider submits the request at PT‑1 provider portal; you book with your broker via NEMT page. (mass.gov)
• TAFDC transportation: Confirm you’re in an approved activity; message your worker in DTA Connect; policy posted at DTA Child Care & Transportation Help and TAFDC page. (mass.gov)
• Car seat safety: Car seat manual, vehicle manual, child height/weight; schedule at Find a car seat site or Boston EMS checks. (mass.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied — Troubleshooting

• MBTA reduced fare denial: Re‑apply with a clearer proof of benefit; acceptable proof is listed on MBTA’s reduced fare page; get in‑person help through ABCD centers; if you still can’t qualify, use free routes like 23/28/29 in Boston. (mbta.com)
• PT‑1 denied: Ask your provider to resubmit with medical need details per MassHealth PT‑1; if you need enhanced service (room‑to‑room), your provider must request it; escalate via HST Office contacts on NEMT page. (mass.gov)
• TAFDC $80 not showing: Message DTA or call 1‑877‑382‑2363; rules are posted at DTA Child Care & Transportation Help; consider SNAP Path to Work for transportation support listed on DTA PATH. (mass.gov)

Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for safe‑space travel training via MassMobility, use MBTA reduced fares to cut costs, and contact Mass 211 if you need LGBTQ‑friendly resources or late‑night rides to shelters or courts. (mass.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Apply for The RIDE, request large‑print or interpreter support via MBTA accessibility info, and check MassAbility transportation resources for adaptive driving or vehicle modification evaluations. TTY 711 is available everywhere in state systems. (mbta.com)
• Veteran single mothers: Use VA’s Beneficiary Travel and DAV network rides to VA appointments via VA Beneficiary Travel, schedule local DAV vans through DAV Massachusetts, and call the Veterans Families Transportation Call Center at 1‑855‑483‑8743 per Veterans’ transportation (Mass.gov). (va.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms (any status): Reduced MBTA fares do not ask about citizenship; apply at MBTA reduced fares, ask ABCD or MASSCAP for language support, and use Mass 211 for multilingual referrals; PT‑1 is based on MassHealth eligibility as outlined on MassHealth PT‑1. (mbta.com)
• Tribal members in Massachusetts: Connect with your tribal government transportation contacts and use MassMobility to locate regional options; MBTA and RTA discounts apply regardless of tribal status at MBTA reduced fares and RTA listings above; reach Veterans tribal liaisons via Massachusetts Women Veterans Network if applicable. (mass.gov)
• Rural single moms (limited service): Use Ride Match to find volunteer driver programs, call MassOptions for Council on Aging vans, and check BRTA or FRTA/MART region for local shuttles. (mass.gov)
• Single fathers raising kids: All programs in this guide apply regardless of gender; apply for MBTA reduced fares, request PT‑1 via MassHealth, and use Mass 211 to find parenting groups that can fund a one‑off ride. (mbta.com)
• Language access: Ask for interpreters at MassHealth Customer Service, get in‑person MBTA application help at ABCD sites, and call MassOptions for translation support on aging/disability rides. Request large‑print forms and TTY 711 where needed. (mass.gov)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Massachusetts Today

If paying the bus or gas to work means missing the light bill, call for shutoff protections now. File a hardship complaint with the Department of Public Utilities at DPU Consumer Division, read protections (infant, illness, heat season) at the Attorney General’s shutoff rights, and call the DPU hotline at 1‑877‑886‑5066 on the DPU complaint page for same‑day help. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local CAA for LIHEAP through ABCD Fuel Assistance, call Mass 211 to locate your fuel program, and request a payment plan from your utility using the rights listed at Know your rights as a utility consumer. (bostonabcd.org)

10 FAQs Massachusetts Single Moms Ask Most

1. How long does the MBTA reduced fare approval take?
   Most online approvals are fast, especially if you verify with SNAP, TAFDC, or MassHealth. Apply at MBTA reduced fares, bring documents to ABCD help sites if you prefer in‑person, and review program details at MBTA news. Plan for a few business days. (mbta.com)
2. Can I use the discount on Commuter Rail?
   Yes, the income‑eligible card works on Commuter Rail and ferry as described in MBTA program info; standard subway fares are at Subway Fares; The RIDE fares are on RIDE fare page. (mbta.com)
3. How far ahead should I book a MassHealth ride?
   Book at least three business days in advance if possible; brokers try to fit late requests. Details and contact hours are at NEMT info and MassHealth ride page. (mass.gov)
4. Is Worcester still fare‑free?
   Yes—WRTA shows fare‑free through June 2026 on WRTA homepage; check service notices there and consider regional links from MassDOT RTA grants. (therta.com)
5. What if I was on Youth Pass?
   Youth Pass was phased into the new income‑eligible program; switch per MBTA announcements; for historic eligibility see Youth Pass page and get application help at ABCD. (mbta.com)
6. Do I need to re‑apply for The RIDE when my disability changes?
   RIDE customers recertify occasionally and can update their status with the Mobility Center; see Apply/eligibility, system overview at The RIDE, and discount linkage directions in MBTA reduced fare launch. (mbta.com)
7. How do I get a disability placard, and is there a fee?
   Apply via RMV Placard/Plate; replacement placards have no fee as shown on Replace a placard; eligibility guidance is at RMV eligibility page. (mass.gov)
8. Can I get a ride to the VA if I’m a veteran?
   Yes—DAV vans and VA Beneficiary Travel may help; see DAV Massachusetts rides, VA Beneficiary Travel, and Veterans’ Transportation (Mass.gov). (davma.org)
9. My car insurance was canceled—who can help?
   Call the Division of Insurance Consumer Services, file at Insurance Complaint, and read Consumer Services overview to learn your rights. (mass.gov)
10. I can’t afford both gas and the light bill—who do I call today?
    Call the DPU consumer hotline at 1‑877‑886‑5066 per DPU complaint page, check protections at AG shutoff rights, and ask Mass 211 for your nearest fuel assistance site. (mass.gov)

Quick Tips That Save Real Time

• Use apps where available: MART and GATRA enable app or portal booking for MassHealth rides; details and download tips are listed on NEMT info, and member service at MassHealth Customer Service can guide passwords. (mass.gov)
• Keep scanned documents on your phone: For MBTA reduced fare and PT‑1 calls, store PDFs or photos of SNAP/TAFDC letters and your MassHealth ID; application pages at MBTA reduced fares and MassHealth PT‑1 accept standard formats. (mbta.com)
• Know your free routes and days: Boston Routes 23/28/29 are fare‑free through March 2026 on Boston.gov program page; Cape fixed routes are free every day on CCRTA fares; Worcester and MeVa are fare‑free on WRTA and MeVa. (boston.gov)

Spanish summary — Resumen en español (traducido con herramientas de IA)

• Baje el costo del MBTA a la mitad: Solicite el programa de tarifas reducidas por ingresos en MBTA Tarifas Reducidas; ayuda en persona en ABCD y agencias de MASSCAP.
• Viajes médicos con MassHealth: Pida a su médico que envíe una solicitud PT‑1; programe con MART/GATRA; llame 1‑800‑841‑2900 si necesita apoyo.
• Apoyo de transporte con TAFDC: DTA deposita $80/mes cuando usted trabaja o estudia; detalles en DTA Cuidado Infantil y Transporte.
• Rutas gratis: Worcester (WRTA), Merrimack Valley (MeVa), SRTA y Cape Cod (CCRTA).
• Ayuda 24/7: Marque 2‑1‑1 o visite Mass 211 para referencias locales y asistencia.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team. This guide uses official sources including:

• MBTA official fares and news
• MassHealth PT‑1 transportation pages
• Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) transportation support
• MassDOT/MassMobility community transportation resources
• MASSCAP Community Action Agency directory

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. 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 information is for general guidance in Massachusetts only. Benefits, fares, and funding can change mid‑year. Always confirm current availability before applying by checking: MBTA reduced fares, MassHealth ride pages, and your local RTA sites like WRTA or MeVa. If you face a legal issue like license suspension, consult the RMV reinstatement page or an attorney referral listed at Consumer Affairs contacts. (mass.gov)

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Notes on timelines and sources: MBTA’s low‑income fare launched September 4, 2024 with ~50% discounts and RIDE inclusion, and MBTA increased fare‑evasion enforcement September 8, 2025, according to MBTA releases and recent coverage. RTAs expanded fare‑free service with FY2025 grants; WRTA shows fare‑free through June 2026, MeVa made fare‑free permanent in 2025, and SRTA extended fare‑free through June 2026. DTA lists $80/month transportation support for TAFDC in approved activities, and MassHealth PT‑1 rides must be booked through MART or GATRA with provider‑submitted requests. Program specifics can change; always call to confirm. (mbta.com)

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🏛️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
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• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
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• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
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• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
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• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
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• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery