Housing Assistance Resources in Massachusetts

Last updated September 5, 2026

Massachusetts offers a range of state and federally funded housing assistance programs for renters, homeowners, families experiencing homelessness, and individuals at risk of losing stable housing. Whether you're facing eviction, struggling to pay rent, or need emergency shelter, help is available — and knowing where to start can make a real difference.

Your fastest first step is often to call 2-1-1, Massachusetts's free, confidential information and referral helpline available 24/7. Trained specialists can connect you with local emergency shelter, rental assistance programs, utility help, and other supports based on your specific ZIP code and situation. You can also text your ZIP code to 898-211 or visit 211.org.

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) — formerly DHCD — oversees many of the state's core housing programs, including homelessness services and the state's rental voucher programs. For federally funded housing vouchers (Section 8), contact your regional Public Housing Authority (PHA), as waitlists and eligibility rules vary by area.

Key programs in Massachusetts

HUD Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) & Continuum of Care — Massachusetts

Funds emergency shelter, rapid re-housing, homelessness prevention, and street outreach across Massachusetts. Local Continuums of Care (CoCs) coordinate these services by region.

How to access: Call 2-1-1 to be connected to your regional CoC or local shelter network. You can also search HUD's CoC locator at hudexchange.info to find the lead agency for your area.

Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP)

A state-funded rental assistance voucher program administered by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) that helps low-income households afford private-market rentals.

How to access: Apply through your regional administering agency or local housing authority. Contact EOHLC at mass.gov/eohlc or call 2-1-1 to find the administering agency nearest you, as waitlists are managed locally.

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program — Massachusetts PHAs

Federally funded rental assistance that subsidizes rent for eligible low-income individuals and families in private housing. Administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) across Massachusetts.

How to access: Contact your local PHA directly — waitlists open and close independently. Find your PHA at hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8 or call 2-1-1 for local referrals.

RAFT (Residential Assistance for Families in Transition)

A Massachusetts state program providing short-term financial assistance to low-income families facing housing instability — including help with rent arrears, utilities, and other costs to prevent homelessness or shelter entry.

How to access: Apply through a regional administering agency (such as a regional non-profit housing organization). Visit mass.gov/eohlc or call 2-1-1 to find your local RAFT administrator and current eligibility requirements.

VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) — Massachusetts

Combines HUD Housing Choice Vouchers with VA case management and supportive services for eligible homeless veterans and their families in Massachusetts.

How to access: Contact the nearest VA medical center in Massachusetts (locations in Boston, Bedford, Brockton, Leeds, and others) or call the VA's National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-424-3838.

Housing Assistance resources for Massachusetts

211 Housing & Shelter

Nationwide

Local shelter, rental, and housing assistance referrals. Dial 211.

211
Visit

HUD Housing Counseling

Nationwide

Free HUD-approved housing counseling on rent, foreclosure, homelessness, and fair housing.

1-800-569-4287
Visit

National Low Income Housing Coalition

Nationwide

Resources and local referrals for affordable housing and rental assistance.

Visit
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