Eviction prevention programs in Massachusetts.
Find how to stop an eviction in Massachusetts or to locate a place to live - known as rehousing. Low income families that are facing eviction can get help from Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), non-profit or government funded programs. There is also assistance for the homeless, and that can include rehousing, shelter, or assistance for paying a security deposit. Find help for people getting eviction in MA as well as rehousing programs.
Residents with an eviction notice, and that are in imminent risk of homelessness, may be able to receive emergency financial help and stabilization services to stop or delay an eviction. Resources are limited, and are generally offered on a first come and served basis to those that qualify. In general, tenants facing eviction in MA will be given priority for emergency help with their rent or other needs.
Programs to stop or delay an eviction in MA
Non-profits, or the government, in Massachusetts may offer funds to pay back rent, if it will stop an eviction. Or if that is not an option, then case managers will work with the client on finding them a new, low income home or apartment to live in. As there is rehousing into a new home or apartment for tenants that have been evicted.
Whenever possible, ESG grants or a non-profit will provide financial assistance or cash grants to prevent homelessness. In some cases, low interest loans are issued for paying housing expenses, including rental arrears or a security deposit. Another key focus is on self-sufficiency and case management. The goal is to help the participant maintain their housing over the long term, and DTA may assist with that. Read more on Massachusetts DTA.
Whether seeking one emergency rental assistance or help for paying other bills (such as utility or a deposit fee), all funding is limited and comes with conditions. Most of the financial aid or grants paid out is the result of an annual federal government grant process, and the money will run out each year. However, the various non-profit organizations and charities in Massachusetts will do their best to help as many people as possible. If they can't meet someone's needs, then referrals may be provided to other resources. Or even find other grants for solving housing hardships.
There are several other government social services available to stop an eviction. Non-profits and local government partner together on this. As many other agencies also work to stop evictions and even home foreclosures for that matter. Some other possibilities are below.
- Free legal aid and representation from pro-bono law firms. Get information on the state of Massachusetts rules and regulations when it comes to evictions.
- Mediation services for landlords and tenants.
- Eviction prevention for people in section 8 apartments in Massachusetts, including for deposits and locate $0 deposit section 8 apartment.
- Financial assistance for paying other expenses that could lead to homelessness if they were unpaid, such as utility, water, or heating bills.
- Veterans and the disabled that are facing evictions also have other HUD programs available to them (such as SSVF) and case managers can advise on these.
- Foreclosure counseling may be offered to those faced with losing their home. Some of the organizations are HUD certified and can direct homeowners to mortgage programs. There are many free mortgage and foreclosure assistance programs in Massachusetts.
- Other options include public housing, section 8 vouchers, and low income, privately owned apartments.
Rapid rehousing in MA for previously evicted people
Any resident that is currently homeless may also qualify for assistance. The Massachusetts rapid re-housing program may be able to help those who lack the financial resources and support networks they need. This also includes for immigrants, Latinos and newcomers to Massachusetts.
 As part of this process, clients may be placed into short term, transitional housing. There are units available for the disabled, single parents, seniors, or veteran. Government funding, including from Continuum of Care and ESG, are used to pay for many of the shelter facilities. Those who stay at the housing units in Massachusetts will also receive ongoing case management. There are also inexpensive, or affordable homes for the elderly too, and locate inexpensive housing for seniors.
After clients of a transitional facility gain stability (such as employment and a stronger financial footing) Massachusetts may be able to help them pay first month's rent, a utility hookup fee, or a portion of a security deposit. The home or apartment selected most be low income and affordable over the long term.
Another potential solution for the homeless is an emergency shelter. This will get someone off the streets. They will be provided free meals, case management, and then information on longer term solutions, such as rehousing. So if the individual is facing a crisis and needs immediate assistance, there are shelters across Massachusetts. Many of those centers are also funded by Emergency Solutions Grant.
Local non-profits and government homeless prevention services
Agencies, ranging from law firms to social service organizations and non-profits, support low income tenants. Based on merit, assistance including grants for a deposit or rent, a legal review of a vacate notice, and other services are provided in Massachusetts. Find the main counties are cities below, and there are additional homeless prevention and rapid rehousing programs all listed below.
There are other Massachusetts agencies to contact for eviction help and rehousing. There are multiple agencies for low-income families facing eviction, the homeless, and others to turn to for assistance. Homeless people will also get support, whether access to rehousing, free hotel vouchers or security deposit money. The programs are regional by nature.
Eastern MA, statewide programs and Boston area
- Father Bill's/MainSpring, Inc., Plymouth/Bristol, Brockton and Quincy - phone (508) 427-6448 or 617.770.3314.
- MHSA/HomeStart, Boston, telephone 617-542-0338
- Housing Assistance Corporation (HAC), Cape/Islands, 508-771-5400
- Catholic Charities of Fall River, Attleboro, and New Bedford. Dial (508) 674-4681
- MHA of Greater Springfield, Tri-City Western. They focus on tenants with a mental illness who are facing eviction or that are homeless. Call 413 734-5376
- Berkshire Housing Development, Pittsfield/Berks, call 413-499-1630
- The Brookline Center for Community Mental Health, Brookline Lolita Gonsalves-Alston, call 617-277-8107
- Valley Opportunity Council - Community Action Franklin/Hamp/NQ, Tri-County, 413-552-1554
City of Quincy
- Quincy Community Action offers eviction prevention, rent grants and more to tenants. Call 617-479-8181.
New Bedford
- Catholic Social Services of New Bedford Massachusetts. The main number is (508) 997-7337.
- New Bedford Women's Center (NBWC) helps the homeless and low-income tenants. Call (508) 996-3343.
- People Acting in Community Endeavers (PACE). Call 508-999-9920.
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