Veteran Resources Resources in Massachusetts
Last updated September 15, 2026
Massachusetts is home to a strong network of federal, state, and community-based resources for veterans and their families. Whether you need help navigating VA benefits, finding stable housing, managing a mental health crisis, or covering everyday expenses, there are real programs available to you — and people whose job it is to help you access them.
The Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) is the primary state agency coordinating veteran support. DVS works alongside the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and local Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) stationed in every county — these officers provide free, one-on-one help applying for benefits and are often the best first call for any Massachusetts veteran who doesn't know where to start.
If you're unsure which program fits your situation, calling 2-1-1 Massachusetts connects you to a statewide helpline staffed by trained referral specialists who can identify local resources for housing, food, healthcare, financial assistance, and more — including veteran-specific programs in your area.
Key programs in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) & Local Veterans Service Officers (VSOs)
State agency overseeing veteran benefits in Massachusetts, including the Chapter 115 state benefit program, which provides financial assistance and medical assistance to income-eligible veterans and their dependents. Local VSOs provide free claims assistance for federal VA benefits, pensions, education, and more.
How to access: Find your local VSO through the DVS website at mass.gov/veterans or call DVS at (617) 210-5480. VSOs are located in every city and town clerk's office or veterans' services office.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) — VA New England Healthcare System
Provides comprehensive healthcare, mental health services, substance use treatment, disability compensation, pension, education benefits (GI Bill), home loan guarantees, and vocational rehabilitation to eligible veterans.
How to access: Enroll in VA healthcare at va.gov/health-care/apply or call 1-877-222-8387. Massachusetts is served by the VA Boston Healthcare System and the Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial VA Medical Center (Bedford). Walk-in eligibility assessments are available at VA medical centers.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Veterans Crisis Line
Confidential, 24/7 crisis support for veterans, service members, and their families experiencing emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or mental health emergencies. Staffed by responders experienced with military culture.
How to access: Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. You can also text 838255 or chat online at veteranscrisisline.net. No VA enrollment is required to use this service.
HUD-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH)
Combines HUD Housing Choice Vouchers with VA case management and clinical services to help homeless or at-risk veterans find and maintain stable permanent housing.
How to access: Contact your nearest VA Medical Center's homeless program coordinator, or call the VA at 1-877-424-3838. You can also reach out to your local Continuum of Care organization through 2-1-1 Massachusetts for referrals.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) — Massachusetts
Federally funded program that helps income-eligible households, including veterans and their families, pay heating and utility bills. In Massachusetts this program is administered as the Fuel Assistance Program through local community action agencies.
How to access: Apply through your local community action agency. Find yours by calling 2-1-1 Massachusetts or visiting mass.gov and searching 'Fuel Assistance.' Applications typically open in November for the heating season.
Veteran Resources resources for Massachusetts
Other resources in Massachusetts
- Housing Assistance in Massachusetts
- Food Assistance in Massachusetts
- Utility Assistance in Massachusetts
- Transportation Assistance in Massachusetts
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in Massachusetts
- Mental Health Resources in Massachusetts
- Domestic Violence Resources in Massachusetts
- Disability Resources in Massachusetts
- Child & Family Assistance in Massachusetts
- Senior Resources in Massachusetts