Housing
Ask about it
Tell us more about what you need. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Programs in Massachusetts
Massachusetts programs for this kind of help. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities
RAFT
Also: State Public Housing and Rental Vouchers
RAFT provides short-term financial help to eligible households facing housing instability.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities
Emergency Assistance Family Shelter
Also: HomeBASE
Emergency Assistance provides eligible families with shelter and related support when they have no safe place to stay.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhoneIn person
Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency
MassHousing homebuyer and housing programs
MassHousing offers financing programs that support affordable homeownership and housing in Massachusetts.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhone
Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities
Home Energy Assistance Program
In Massachusetts, LIHEAP is called HEAP.
HEAP helps eligible households pay heating bills and manage energy costs.
Ways to apply:OnlineIn person
Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities
Weatherization Assistance Program
Weatherization provides eligible households with home energy improvements to reduce energy use.
Ways to apply:OnlineIn person
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal programs
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
Help paying rent in a home you choose, for families with very low income, older adults and people with disabilities. Local housing authorities run it, and many have waiting lists.
Apply through your local public housing authority. HUD lists every housing authority by state.
Federal Communications Commission
Lifeline phone and internet discount
A monthly discount on phone or internet service for households with low income or who get benefits like SNAP, Medicaid or SSI.
Check if you qualify and apply on the National Verifier, then pick a phone or internet company that offers Lifeline.
Federal Emergency Management Agency
FEMA disaster assistance
Help with a place to stay, repairs and other needs after a disaster the President has declared in your area.
Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by phone, or in person at a Disaster Recovery Center.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Talk to a person
- Mass 211
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988