The Salvation Army
215 Main Road, Westfield
(413) 562-0905
840 Boston Road, Springfield
(413) 782-3012
665 Liberty St., Springfield
(413) 732-9259
204 Dickinson St., Springfield
(413) 739-4897
59 Service Center Road, Northampton
(413) 586-2493
56 Hope St., Greenfield
(413) 773-3649
Goodwill Industries
473 Sumner Avenue, Springfield
(413) 785-1579
1201 Parker St., Springfield
(413) 796-3379
355 Front St., Chicopee
(413) 594-5354
91 Main St., Ware
(413) 967-6045
The Hospice Shop
18 Bridge St., Northampton, MA 01060
(413) 586-0193
Church Caboose Thrift Shop
Second Congregational Church
1080 Pleasant St., Palmer, MA 01069
(413) 283-6958
Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday
9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Savers
1277 Liberty St.
Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 746-2242
Bridge of Hope Thrift Shop
Community Survival Center
1323 Worcester St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
(413) 543-3930
P.O.S.H.
(Professional Outfits for Student Hirees)
O'Leary Hall, Elms College
291 Springfield St., Chicopee, MA 01013
(413) 594-2761
Open to the public. Proceeds benefit a scholarship.
Amherst Survival Center
1200 North Pleasant St.
North Amherst, MA 01059
(413) 549-3968
Take the clothes you want for free!
Northampton Survival Center
265 Prospect St.
Northampton, MA 01060
(413) 586-6564
Free clothing, toys, books and household items.
Lorraine's Soup Kitchen
35 Center St., Chicopee, MA 01013
(413) 592-9528
A small selection of used clothes for free.
St. Jude’s Clothing Center
56 Cabot St., Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 536-9109
Open Tuesday and Thursday
12:30-2:30 p.m.
Clothing and small household items
provided for nominal cost to anyone in need.
St. Jude’s Used Furniture Store
51 Hamilton St., Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 536-9109
By appointment.
Williamsburg Thrift & Gift
35 Main St., Williamsburg, MA 01096
(413) 268-7134
Alliance for Injured Workers
640 Page Blvd, Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 731-0760
Come to one of our monthly support group
meetings. If you are isolated and scared, or
just want some additional information, the
group is a great place to meet people in
similar circumstances. We often accompany
each other to hearings and medical
examinations.
National Alliance for the Mentally Ill
717 ˝ Main Street, Agawam, MA 01001
(413) 786-9139
Support for families of the mentally ill.
Employee Assistance Program
Your employer may have an Employee
Assistance Program that offers free
counseling.
Chronic pain support group
Mercy Hospital/Weldon Center for
Rehabilitation, Room 224
233 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 748-6800
Meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays
of each month from 1-2:30 p.m.
The meetings are facilitated by a
psychologist who specializes in treating
individuals with chronic pain.
Child and Families Disability
Resources Program
367 Pine St., Springfield, MA 01105
(413) 788-9695
Information, referrals, support groups and
recreational activities for the disabled.
Crisis Intervention
Emergency Services
Northampton
(413) 582-2974, (800) 322-0424
Mount Tom Mental Health Center
Crisis Line and Respite Center
40 Bobala Drive, Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 536-2251
The crisis line is an emergency hotline to
call if you are suicidal or need to talk to
someone. The respite center is an alternative
to being hospitalized. You must first call the
crisis line to be admitted to the Respite Center.
You can request to stay in the respite center,
but the crisis staff makes the decision after an
evaluation. If they believe that you are in immediate
danger of committing suicide, they will want to
hospitalize you. If it appears that you can control
suicidal impulses, you will most likely be allowed
to stay in the respite center. The center is voluntary --
you can leave whenever you want. In a hospital,
even if you are considered a voluntary patient, you
may not be able to leave for several days. The respite
center has a TV area and a kitchen where patients make
their own meals. After 24 hours, you can receive
"passes" to leave for short periods of time. Tell them
before you are admitted about any physical
accommodations you might need.
Voices of (dis)Ability
Contact Susan McWha, (413) 731-6755
A creative writing workshop for women
with physical disabilities or chronic pain.
Freedom Center
P.O. Box 623, Northampton, MA 01061
(413) 582-9948
This group offers peer support, advocacy
and activism for people who have been
labeled with "mental illness." It was founded
and is run by people labeled "mentally ill."
www.MindFreedom.org
"Defending the human rights of people in
the psychiatric system since 1987."
Published by the Support Coalition
International.
American Chronic Pain
Association
P.O. Box 850, Rocklin, CA 95677
(800) 533-3231
www.theacpa.org
National Chronic Pain Outreach Association
P.O. Box 274, Millboro, VA 24460
(540) 862-9437
NOT DEAD YET
www.notdeadyet.org
Anti-euthanasia group that advocates giving
the disabled the help they need to live.
"Americans with Disabilities don't want
your pity or your lethal mercy. We want
freedom. We want LIFE."
Obtaining benefits through the federal
system can be very difficult. Only a handful
of lawyers will take federal cases! This is
because of the fee structure and the
complicated nature of the law.
Alliance for Injured Workers
640 Page Blvd., Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 731-0760
Referrals to attorneys who handle
federal workers compensation cases.
Hurt on the Job:
A Guide to the Massachusetts Workers’
Compensation System
Published by Western MassCOSH
(413) 731-0760
A complete guide to handling workers compensation
claims. Contains a comprehensive look
at federal workers compensation.
Federal Workers'
Compensation Guide
($19.95), (800) 989-3363
www.federaldaily.com
National Association
of Federal Injured Workers
2701 Coed Place, Grants Pass, OR 97527
(541) 472-8940
National Association
of Retired Federal Employees
606 North Washington St.
Alexandria, VA, 22314-1914
(703) 838-7760; (800) 627-3394.
Food Stamps
Contact Project Bread, (800) 645-8333
The project will determine your eligibility
for food stamps.
Valley Opportunity Council
300 High St., Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 552-1559
This agency can help you apply for food
stamps.
WIC (Women, Infants and Children)
Springfield: (413) 737-5142
Amherst: (413) 549-6825
Northampton: (413) 584-3591
Ware: (413) 967-2163
This program provides food vouchers to
pregnant women or mothers of young
children who meet income guidelines.
Assets are not considered.
SERVE New England
Toll-free at: (888) 742-7363
Perform two hours of volunteer work a
month and buy a package of food for $16 in
cash or food stamps. The food includes fresh
fruits and vegetables. (You can perform the
volunteer work for the Alliance for Injured
Workers.)
Meals on Wheels
(800) 243-4636
Provides nutritious meals to all seniors 60
years or older regardless of income.
Price Rite
633 Boston Road, Springfield, MA 01119
(413) 796-2934
Discount grocery store.
Save-A-Lot Food Stores
459 Main St., Indian Orchard, MA 01151
(413) 543-0200
655 Liberty St., Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 732-4405
Discount grocery store.
The Barn
95 River St., Greenfield, MA 01301
(413) 774-5599
Discount grocery store.
Free Groceries/Free Meals
Meals are usually served on a walk-in basis
no questions asked. You may need proof of
income or a referral for groceries.
Amherst
Amherst Survival Center
1200 North Pleasant St., (413) 549-3968
Meals served Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
and Friday noon-1 p.m.
Groceries. Monday, Tuesday, Friday 11
a.m.-3 p.m.; Thursday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Fresh
produce distribution at 11 a.m. Service
limited to residents of Amherst and
communities without food pantries. The
service can be used
once a month. Free used clothing.
Food Pantry
First Baptist Church
434 North Pleasant St., (413) 549-3596
Groceries. Wednesday 2-5 p.m. Limited to
residents of Amherst and nearby
communities.
Not Bread Alone
First Congregational Church
165 Main St., (413) 256-0128
Meals and Groceries. Saturday and Sunday
10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Meals also served on Easter, Thanksgiving
and Christmas.
Belchertown
Note: The three Belchertown food pantries
coordinate their efforts. If you are receiving
food from one of them, you cannot receive
food from the other two.
First Congregational Church
of Belchertown
18 Park St., (413) 323-7442
Groceries. By appointment only. Call the
office Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. A
one-week supply of food is given each
month.
Provisions Pantry
Dwight Chapel, 885 Federal St.
(413) 256-8059
Groceries. By appointment. Food provided
three or four times. Limited to Belchertown
residents. Exceptions occasionally made for
residents of nearby towns.
St. Francis Food Pantry
20 Park St., (413) 323-6272
Groceries. By appointment. Groceries
delivered to your home to protect your
privacy. Limited to Belchertown residents.
Service can be used once a month.
Chicopee
Lord's Pantry
First Central Baptist Church
50 Broadway St., (413) 592-5353
Groceries every Tuesday 9-11 a.m. except
for the second Tuesday of every month in
which the time will be 6:15-8 p.m. Chicopee
residents only. Bring 2 forms of proof that
you are a Chicopee resident. The service can
be used once a month.
Lorraine's Soup Kitchen
35 Center St., (413) 592-9528
Meals served Monday-Friday 5-6:15 p.m.
Groceries. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10
a.m.-2 p.m. Bring photo ID, rent receipt
(proof of residence), proof of children and
proof of income such as MassHealth card.
Limited to Chicopee residents. Service can
be used every two months.
Easthampton
Community Care
Easthampton Community Center
12 Clark St., (413) 527-5240
Meals are served on the second and fourth
Tuesday of each month 5-6 p.m.
Groceries. Main food distribution is 10
a.m.-noon on the first Monday of each
month. Supplemental bags provided 10 a.m.
-noon the third Monday after that.
Emergencies are handled as they arise.
Bring a recent utility bill for proof of
residence, photo identification, and proof of
income. Limited to residents of
Easthampton, Southampton and
Westhampton.
Food Cupboard
Easthampton Congregational Church
112 Main St., (413) 527-4790
Groceries. The 2nd Wednesday of each
month in the months of November-May and
on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month
in the months of June-October. No
eligibility requirements or area limitations.
Calvary Baptist Church
413 Main St., (413) 527-6252
Groceries. By appointment. Limited to
Easthampton and Southampton. Services
can be used once a month.
Florence
Human Resources Unlimited
Star Light Center
251 Nonotuck St., (413) 586-8255
Groceries. Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.;
Thursdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Limited to the
Florence Area and Hampshire. No eligibility
requirements.
Holyoke
Kate's Kitchen
51 Hamilton St., (413) 532-0233
Meals served daily, noon-1 p.m.
Free bread. Saturday 2 p.m.
No questions asked. No referral necessary.
Margaret's Pantry
56 Cabot St., (413) 538-8026
Groceries. Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-3:30
p.m. Must have a referral from the
Department of Transitional Assistance.
Limited to Holyoke and South Hadley
residents. Exceptions considered in cases of
dire need.
Salvation Army Citadel
271 Appleton St., (413) 532-6312
Meals served Monday-Friday 3-4 p.m.
Groceries. No referral needed. Bring photo
identification. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon.
Limited to Holyoke, South Hadley, Granby
and Chicopee residents. The service can be
used every month.
Pioneer Valley Assembly of God
63 Old Chester Road, (413) 667-3196
Groceries. Tuesday and Thursday 10 a.m
- 6 p.m. An individual assessment is made in
each case. Written referral needed from
Salvation Army, your Church or a non-profit
organization. Bring photo identification and
proof of income. No restrictions on how
often the service can be used. Limited to the
Hilltown area, but exceptions occasionally
made.
Monson
Monson Open Pantry
First Church of Monson
5 High St., (413) 267-4837
Supported by donations from townspeople
and local businesses. Space provided by
First Church.
Groceries. The Thursday after the third
Sunday of each month (when food stamps
and assistance checks may be running out),
9-11 a.m., 4-5 p.m. Food available at other
times in an emergency. Limited to Monson
residents. The service can be used once a
month. Food also provided to make a dinner
at Christmas, Thanksgiving and Easter.
Northampton
Northampton Survival Center
265 Prospect St., (413) 586-6564
Groceries. Monday, Wednesday, Friday 11
a.m.-2 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday 4-7 p.m.
Limited to residents of Chesterfield,
Cummington, Easthampton, Goshen,
Hadley, Hatfield, Haydenville,
Northampton, Leeds, Southampton, South
Hadley, Westhampton, Williamsburg, and
Worthington. Fresh produce (in season) and
bakery goods are available. The service can
be used once a month. A selection of free
clothes, household items, and books are also
available.
Manna
St. John's Episcopal Church
48 Elm St., (413) 584-1757
Meals served Sunday 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Edwards Church, 297 Main St.
(413) 584-5500
Meals served Wednesday 6:30 p.m.;
Saturday 11: 30 a.m.-12: 30 p.m.
Palmer
Food Share, Inc.
39 Walnut St., (413) 283-3614
Food pantry. Tuesday and Friday, 10-11:30
a.m. Limited to residents of Palmer
(including Three Rivers, Thorndike and
Bondsville), Brimfield, Holland, Wales,
Warren and West Warren. You will be asked
to fill out an application on your first visit.
Bring ID and proof of
number of dependents. The service can be used every
three months.
Springfield
Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen
287 State St., (413) 731-5668
Meals served Monday-Friday 12 and 5 at
Christ Church Cathedral
35 Chestnut St.
Meals also served Saturday 12 and 5 and
Sunday 1 and 5 at Old First Church
Court Square
Community Survival Center
1323 Worcester St., Indian Orchard
(413) 543-3930
Groceries. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday,
Friday 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; Thursday 9:30
a.m.-5 p.m. Bring proof of income, current
address, rent receipt and family size.
Limited to residents of Ludlow, Indian
Orchard, Wilbraham, Hampden, and the
Sixteen Acres section of Springfield (ZIP
codes 01119, 01118, 01129, 01128).
The service can be used six times a year.
Greater Love Church
65 Newland St., (413) 782-3342
Groceries. Last Saturday of each month,
10 a.m.-noon. Bring identification. No
restrictions on cities or towns that can use
the service.
Martin Luther King Jr.
Community Center
3 Rutland St., (413) 746-4254
Groceries. Friday 10 a.m.-noon. (In an
emergency, they will give you food at other
times if you have a written referral from an
agency.) Bring two sets of identification.
Limited to residents of Springfield. The
service can be used once a month.
Open Pantry
Old First Church, Court Square
(413) 737-5353
Food pantry. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday,
Friday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Meals served Saturday noon and 5 p.m.
Sunday 1 and 5 p.m.
Meals also served Monday-Friday noon and
5 p.m. at Christ Church Cathedral
35 Chestnut St.
Salvation Army Citadel
170 Pearl St., (413) 733-1518
Groceries. Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-noon.
Bring picture ID, Social Security card or
MassHealth card for all family members,
proof of income and proof of address.
Groceries not provided to residents of
Holyoke, Westfield or Southampton because
they have their own Salvation Army's. The
service can be used once every four months.
Springfield Rescue Mission
19 Bliss St., (413) 732-0808
Breakfast served Monday-Saturday 7-7:45 a.m.
Friend's Place
St. John's Congregational Church
643 Union St., (413) 734-2283
Meals served Wednesdays at 5 p.m.
Groceries. Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Bring photo ID and a written referral. The
amount of food is based on family size.
Bring proof of number of dependents. No
residency restrictions. The service can be
used once a month.
Ware
Jubilee Cupboard
Trinity Episcopal Church
20 Park St., (413) 967-3274
Groceries. Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10
a.m.-noon. Limited to Ware residents.
West Springfield
West Springfield/Agawam
Parish Cupboard
1023 Main St., (413) 734-7969.
Lunch, Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Groceries: Monday-Friday 9-11:30 a.m.
Bring photo identification, and proof of
residence (piece of official mail received
within the last 30 days). Limited to residents
of West Springfield, Feeding Hills and
Agawam. The service can be used once a
month.
Westfield
Emergency Food Pantry
101 Meadow St., (413) 572-0802
Groceries. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday,
Friday 10 a.m.-noon. Thursday, 5:30 to
7:30 p.m. You need a referral from the
Salvation Army, a church or social service
agency. Limited to residents of Westfield,
Russell, Blandford. Bread available weekly;
full grocery orders once a month.
New England Farm Workers Council
1628 Main St.,
Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 272-2001
Fuel assistance for Springfield residents.
Valley Opportunity Council
300 High St., Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 552-1548
Fuel assistance for residents of Hampden
County outside of Springfield.
Franklin Community Action Corp.
393 Main St., Greenfield, MA 01301
(413) 773-3421
Fuel assistance for residents of Hampshire
and Franklin counties.
Call your electric company
Many companies and municipalities offer
discounts to low-income customers.
Heatline
(800) 632-8175
Referrals to agencies providing fuel assistance.
Fuel Assistance
Massachusetts Department of
Telecommunications & Energy
(800) 392-6066
State law and DTE regulations may prevent
shut-offs in cases of financial hardship.
Massachusetts Energy
Consumers Alliance
670 Centre St.,
Boston, MA 02130
www.massenergy.com
(800) 287-3950
Join to save on the cost of oil.
Harold Seewald Emergency
Fuel Bank (Amherst)
(800) 339-7779
Emergency assistance for low-income people.
Citizens Energy Corporation
(877) 563-4645
The Citizens Energy Oil Heat Program
offers half-price heating oil to low-income
families and the elderly.
Verizon
(800) 870-9999
The phone company will reduce your
connection charge and monthly bill if you
are receiving assistance from one of the
following programs: Transitional Assistance
to Families with Dependent Children,
Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and
Children; SSI; MassHealth, food stamps;
fuel assistance.
Western MassCOSH (Coalition for
Occupational Safety and Health)
640 Page Boulevard, Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 731-0760
Information, resources, and training for
workplace health and safety issues.
Department of Labor
and Workforce Development
165 Liberty St., Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 747-7192
Enforces lead and asbestos regulations and
provides some apprentice training.
HEALTHY PEOPLE,
HEALTHY PLACES
24 South Prospect St.
Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 367-9638
This organization offers counseling
regarding environmental health issues and
advocates for environmentally safe housing,
workplaces and schools.
Massachusetts Association
for the Chemically Injured
P.O. Box 754, Andover, MA 01810
(978) 681-5117
This non-profit statewide organization offers
support, education and referral.
Environmental Health Coalition
of Western Massachusetts
P.O. Box 187, Northampton, MA 01061
Support, resources and referrals for people
who have been chemically injured,
particularly people with Multiple Chemical
Sensitivity (MCS). Extensive library.
www.coem.com
This site has information about chemical and
environmentally triggered injuries.
Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA)
1441 Main St., Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 785-0123; www.OSHA.gov
OSHA handles workplace health and
safety hazards and violations.
National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health
Hubert H. Humphrey Bldg.
200 Independence Ave., SW., Room 715H
Washington, DC 20201
(800) 35-NIOSH; www.NIOSH.gov
The research arm of OSHA provides
information on occupational safety hazards.
www.ergoweb.com
This site connects to many ergonomic
resources and case studies.
Indoor Air Quality Hotline
P.O. Box 37133, Washington D.C., 20013
(800) 438-4318
www.epa.gov/iaq/iaqinfo.html
The Environmental Protection Agency runs
this hotline.
ANTI-MICROBIAL HOTLINE
(to deal with mold)
(703) 308-0127
MassHealth (Medicaid)
333 Bridge St., Springfield, MA 01103
(800) 332-5545; TTY (800) 596-1276
If you lose your health insurance, you may
be able to get coverage through MassHealth.
Income, not assets, is used to determine your
eligibility, so you will not be denied
coverage because you own a home or have
savings. MassHealth coverage includes
prescriptions. They have several plans and
eligibility rules are complicated. If you
exceed their income limit, for example, you
may still be eligible if you are a disabled
adult working at least ten hours a week.
MassHealth may place a lien on your
workers comp benefits. Discuss with your
attorney the ramifications of getting on
MassHealth.
Medicare
Social Security Office, 70 Bond St.
Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 785-5725
If you receive SSDI, you will be eligible for
Medicare after two years. MassHealth may
cover the costs that Medicare does not.
Massachusetts League of Community
Health Centers
(800) 475-8455; www.massleague.org
If you have no health insurance, you can
turn to these centers for primary and
preventative health care, including dental
and mental health. They also take insurance.
BEWARE: Don't assume that you will not
be billed because you are uninsured.
Let them know you want to apply for free care.
Brightwood Health Center
380 Plainfield St., Springfield, 01107
(413) 794-4458
Caring Health Center
1038-50 Main St., Springfield, 01103
(413) 739-1100
Community Health Center
of Franklin County
338 Montague City Road
Turners Falls, 01376
(413) 772-3748
Holyoke Health Center
230 Maple St., Holyoke, 01040
(413) 420-2200
Huntington Health Center
73 Russell Road, Huntington, 01050
(413) 667-3009
Mason Square Health Center
11 Wilbraham Road, Springfield, 01109
(413) 784-3710
Worthington Health Center
58 Old North Road, Worthington, 01098
(413) 238-5511
COBRA
You may be able to extend your health
insurance through your job for 18-36 months
through COBRA coverage. COBRA can be
expensive, however, as your employer no
longer pays part of the premium.
MassHealth may pay the premium.
Pioneer Valley Free Health Services
281 Maple St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
(413) 525-3866
Open Wednesdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
This is for the uninsured or underinsured.
Appointment is necessary. Limits on new patients.
Springfield Technical Community College
(STCC) Dental Clinic
One Armory Square
Springfield, MA 01105
(413) 781-7822
Teeth cleaning, exam and x-rays for $30.
SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance
Needs of the Elderly)
Hampden: (413) 827-7649
Franklin/Hampshire: (800) 498-4232
Berkshire: (800) 957-3557
Information about health insurance and
prescription drug programs. Not only for the elderly.
www.healthconsult.com
A patient-oriented medical website.
Health Care for All
30 Winter St. 10th Floor, Boston, MA 02108
(800) 272-4232
www.hcfama.org
This is a helpline for those who need
information about health insurance or access
to health care. Health Care for All is also an
advocacy organization that campaigns to
expand health insurance in Massachusetts.
Health Law Advocates
30 Winter St. Suite 1004
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 338-5241
www.hla-inc.org
This is a non-profit law firm that offers free
advice and representation to individuals who
have been denied access to health care.
Services available only to individuals whose
household income does not exceed 300%
($28,710 a year for a one person family) of
the federal poverty level. They assist
individuals who have been denied coverage
by private health insurers or government
programs, such as MassHealth, or who have
been denied free care at hospitals or
community health centers.
www.pharmasave.com
Medical site/natural health supplement guide.
Hampshire Health Access
56 Vernon St., Northampton, MA 01060
(413) 582-4230
This is a program for people who do not
have health insurance and cannot afford
medical care. It links participants with
medical providers who offer services at
reduced fees. The program also provides
information about health care resources,
including MassHealth, community health
centers and prescription programs.
www.massmedboard.org
Massachusetts Board of
Registration in Medicine
560 Harrison Ave., Suite G4
Boston, 02118, MA
(617) 654-9800
Look up information about your doctor!
Search profiles of Massachusetts physicians,
including their history of malpractice or
discipline by a hospital or the board.
A complaint form is available on this site.
Joint Commission on Accreditation
of Healthcare Organizations
(800) 994-6610; www.jcaho.org
Office of Quality Monitoring
One Renaissance Boulevard
Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
Many hospitals are accredited by this
commission. Contact them regarding a complaint.
www.webmd.com
Provides a number of online services
including providing quality health
information and a directory for finding
doctors in your local area.
www.coem.com
Information about chemical and
environmentally triggered injuries.
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
Fort Point Place, Suite 600
27-43 Wormwood St., Boston, MA 02210
(800) 245-6543
The home care assistance program provides
homemaker services to eligible disabled
adults. Services are light housekeeping,
laundry, grocery shopping, meal preparation
and medication pickup.
Massachusetts Client
Assistance Program
One Ashburton Place, Rm 1305
Boston, MA 02108
(800) 322-2020
CAP will attempt to resolve disputes with
the Massachusetts Rehabilitation
Commission over home care services.
Stavros Center for Independent Living
691 South East St., Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 256-0473
Stavros provides personal care assistance
that may include help with bathing, dressing,
preparing meals, cleaning, doing laundry,
shopping and picking up medication.
Personal care assistance is available only to
MassHealth recipients. Your doctor's
diagnosis and an evaluation by a nurse from
Stavros will determine your eligibility.
An advocate can work with you to get home
modifications, such as the construction of a
ramp. Stavros also loans wheelchairs and
other equipment. The housing specialist will
help you to find accessible or subsidized housing.
Tutor Service Dogs Inc.
P.O. Box 687
Greenfield, MA 01302-0687
(413) 775-0553
Email: tutorsdg@shaysnet.com
For a fee, this organization helps disabled
people find and train dogs that can assist
with daily living. A dog can be trained to
pick up objects, for example. Tutor Service
Dogs Inc. also advocates for the
rights of the disabled and provides training sessions.
Many injured workers worry about keeping
a roof over their heads. Several forms of
assistance are available. It is a good idea to
get your name on the waiting lists when you
first go out of work even if you expect to
return to work. Keep in mind that many
injured workers with long-term disabilities
expected to recover and return to work.
Housing Authorities
Each community provides subsidized
housing for the elderly and disabled.
You can put your name on more than one waiting
list. Your rent will be 30 percent of your
income, including heat and electricity.
The disabled must fall within certain income
guidelines to be eligible, but assets are not
counted. While there are many advantages
to this type of housing, some injured
workers have had negative experiences.
Usually, only a handful of slots are set aside
for the disabled, and some of the elderly are
cold to their younger, disabled neighbors.
The Housing Authority may have a hard
time evicting disruptive tenants, which can
be a problem if you live next to someone
who is disturbing your peace.
Section 8
HAP, The Region’s Housing Partnership
322 Main St., Springfield, MA 01105
(800) 332-9667; (413) 233-1500
Call this private, nonprofit corporation to get
your name on the waiting list for a Section 8
voucher that can be used anywhere in the
country to pay for part of your rent.
The waiting list is several years, so sign up now.
HAP also provides information about
subsidized housing, first-time homebuyer
education and financial assistance, landlord
education, lead-based paint abatement,
housing rehabilitation and homeless shelters.
The Homestead Act
This act may protect your home from some
creditors. You must file paperwork first.
A discount on the fee is available to the
disabled. Go to the Registry of Deeds in
your county or call (800) 392-6090.
Housing Discrimination Project
57 Suffolk St., Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 539-9796; (800) 675-7309
Call the project if you think a landlord has
discriminated against you. It is a private,
nonprofit fair housing organization that
provides education, counseling and free
legal services to anyone who has been
illegally denied housing. The brochures it
publishes include Fair Housing for
Individuals with Physical Disabilities, Fair
Housing for Individuals Receiving Public
Assistance or Housing Assistance, and
Discrimination Against Families with
Children. If you are in a wheelchair, and
need a ramp, an advocate will contact your
landlord about installing one. The agency's
help is available to residents of Hampden,
Hampshire, Franklin, Berkshire and
Worcester counties.
Hampshire Community
Action Commission
56 Vernon St., Northampton, MA 01060
(800) 339-7779; (413) 582-4230
Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless
8 Winter St., Suite 402 Boston, MA 02108
(781) 595-7570
www.mahomeless.org
For Massachusetts residents only.
Department of Transitional Assistance
100 Front St., Holyoke
(413) 552-5400
95 Liberty St., Springfield
(413) 858-1000
310 State St., Springfield
(413) 858-1300
75 S. Church St., Pittsfield
(413) 236-2000
One Arch Place, Greenfield
(413) 772-3400; 774-3728, TTY
Berkshire Plaza, 37 Main St., North Adams
(413) 663-1100, TTY
Sometimes the department will pay back
rent to prevent eviction.
Rebuilding Together
with Christmas in April
(413) 750-0958
Limited to the city of Springfield.
Volunteers from local businesses will do
home repairs and renovations. Your income
must be less than $25,000. Preference given
to the elderly and disabled. Property must be
free of tax liens. Previous projects include
adding ramps, rebuilding porches, yard
work, removing a shed, and painting.
The number of applications approved is based on
the type of work needed and the number of
volunteers available.
Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency
(617) 854-1000
Broderick House
56 Cabot St., Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 534-7610
Emergency shelter for homeless families
with children. You will need a referral from
the Department of Transitional Assistance.
Loreto House
51 Hamilton Place, Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 533-5909
Shelter for homeless men. Agency referral
needed. Application must be filled out either
by calling and requesting one or by going
directly to the office. Lunch and dinner are provided.
If everything goes well with your case, you
will be receiving workers compensation.
But the system is unfair, so here are other
possible sources of income. You may be
able to collect some of them in addition to
workers compensation.
Social Security Administration
70 Bond St., Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 785-5725
200 High St., Holyoke, MA 01060
(413) 536-3649
(800) 772-1213; www.ssa.gov
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
The criteria and process for determining
disability are the same as SSDI, but these
benefits are available to people who do not
have a long work history. You may be
disqualified if you have substantial assets.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
You may qualify for benefits if you have
worked for a number of years and are now
totally and permanently disabled. The Social Security Administration defines permanent,
total disability differently than does workers
compensation law. Social Security considers
you permanently, totally disabled if you
cannot perform gainful, substantial
employment for at least one year. You may
be eligible to collect both workers
compensation and Social Security disability.
More importantly, if you lose or settle your workers
compensation case, Social Security
disability may be the only income you have
to fall back on. You do not have to be out of
work for a year before you can apply; you
only have to have a doctor say that your
disability is expected to last that long.
Benefits are retroactive only one year prior
to the time of your application, so it is
important to apply early. The process may
take a long time, and you may be very
discouraged. If you are denied, APPEAL! It
is not unusual for people to be denied twice
and have to face a hearing before a judge.
You can collect SSDI even if you have
substantial assets, such as savings or a
house. SSDI recipients are allowed to earn a
certain amount of money each month, and
there are provisions in the law for trial work
months, but the rules are complicated. See
BenePlan in the retraining section for more information.
Disability insurance.
Find out if you are covered by disability
insurance through work. You may be able to
collect private disability in addition to
workers compensation or SSDI.
Accidental Disability Retirement
State Board of Retirement
(617) 367-7770
www.state.ma.us/treasury/srb.htm
If you have worked in the public sector for a
number of years, you may not be eligible for
SSDI. You may be able to obtain disability
benefits through the state, however.
Transitional Assistance Emergency Aid to
Elders, Disabled and Children (EAEDC)
100 Front St., Holyoke
(413) 552-5400
95 Liberty St., Springfield
(413) 858-1000
310 State St., Springfield
(413) 858-1300
75 S. Church St., Pittsfield
(413) 236-2000
One Arch Place, Greenfield
(413) 772-3400; 774-3728, TTY
Berkshire Plaza, 37 Main St., North Adams
(413) 663-1100, TTY
EAEDC is an emergency assistance program
for the elderly, the disabled, and for children
and their families who do not qualify for
TAFDC, SSI, or other similar programs. It is
for Massachusetts residents who are U.S.
citizens or eligible non-citizens. EAEDC is
for individuals and families with few
resources and low income. You may have
resources (cash, bank accounts, etc.) worth
up to $250 per individual or $500 per
family. The income limits depend on your
household size and living situation.
Transitional Aid to Families with
Dependent Children (TAFDC or Welfare)
TAFDC is an assistance program for
families with dependent children and for
pregnant women in the last four months of
pregnancy. To be eligible, you must be a
U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen and a
resident of Massachusetts. TAFDC is
for families whose incomes and assets are
not enough to meet the basic needs of their
children. Total countable assets
(cash, savings, etc.) cannot be greater than
$2500 per family. Income limits depend
on your family size, living situation,
and ability to work. You must work a
minimum of 20 hours per week to be
eligible for TAFDC. Some people, such as
the disabled, seniors, and women in the last
4 months of pregnancy, are exempt from this
requirement and do not have to work.
All children under 14 must attend school
regularly. Teen parents must also meet
school attendance requirements.
Unemployment Benefits
Toll-free (877) 626-6800
Some injured workers apply for
unemployment benefits out of desperation.
Unfortunately, unemployment benefits were
not designed for injured workers. The
application asks if you are able to work, and
you are required to be looking for work
while collecting. Some injured workers
apply for unemployment out of desperation
when they are having trouble getting
workers comp. This may be used against
them later. If you lose your case, and then
apply for unemployment benefits, you may
find you are ineligible because you have not
worked for a long time. Another Catch-22!
Veterans Administration
1985 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01101
(800) 827-1000
Massachusetts Department
of Veteran Services
600 Washington St.
Boston, MA 02111
(617) 727-3578
Call your local veterans agent to request a
publication called Veterans Benefits Book.
Consumer Credit Counseling Service
of Southern New England
(800) 208-2227, (888) 868-5138
If you fall behind on your bills, this
nonprofit organization may be able to help
you. The fee for a counseling session is $10,
but sometimes the fee can be waived. Their
counselors provide information about a
variety of financial issues, including
bankruptcy, fair debt collection practices,
debt management plans, housing counseling
plans. They can also work out a plan for
repaying your creditors.
Alliance for Injured Workers
640 Page Boulevard
Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 731-0760
Support and advocacy for people who have
been hurt on the job.
Hurt on the Job: A Guide to the
Massachusetts Workers’
Compensation System
Published by Western MassCOSH
(413) 731-0760.
A complete guide to handling workers
compensation claims.
Workers’ Comp: A Massachusetts Guide
By Robert M. Schwartz
Published (2002) by Work Rights Press
$6 for employees, unions, and nonprofits.
(800) 576-4552
ISBN number: 0-945902-12-3
www.workerscompensationinsurance.com
This is a national website created by an
injured worker.
www.afiw.org
Includes a listing of Massachusetts
legislatures in your area, and provides
information on workers compensation
and community programs.
It is ultimately your decision whether or not
to get a lawyer, but it won’t cost anything to
speak with someone well versed. Insurance
adjustors may treat you well in the early
stages of your claim, lulling you into
thinking this will not be an adversarial
process. Don’t be fooled! Your attorney will
be paid by the other side if he or she wins
your case. Most often, you will not incur any
initial costs, but you may end up paying the
cost of an appeal later. If your case is
settled, your attorney will take a percentage
of the lump sum settlement.
Alliance for Injured Workers
640 Page Boulevard
Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 731-0760
Legal referrals for workers compensation.
The Center for Public Representation
22 Green St., Northampton, MA 01060
(413) 586-6024
A nonprofit organization that provides legal
representation in cases concerning disability
claims, including applications for Social
Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
benefits.
Western Massachusetts Legal Services
127 State St., Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 781-7814
20 Hampton Ave., Suite 100
Northampton, MA 01060
(413) 584-4034
This agency provides legal assistance to
low-income people in civil cases, such as
denial or loss of benefits, evictions and
family law.
Massachusetts Justice Project
57 Suffolk St., Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 533-2660
The project provides legal services to low-
income individuals with cases such as
housing discrimination, public benefits,
disability and family law.
Housing Discrimination Project
57 Suffolk St., Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 539-9796, (800) 675-7309
Call the project if you think a landlord has
discriminated against you. It is a private,
non-profit, fair housing organization that
provides education, counseling and free
legal services to anyone who has been
illegally denied housing. The brochures it
publishes includeFair Housing for
Individuals with Physical Disabilities, Fair
Housing for Individuals Receiving Public
Assistance or Housing Assistance, and
Discrimination Against Families with
Children.If you are in a wheelchair and
need a ramp, an advocate will contact your
landlord about installing one. The agency's
help is available to residents of Hampden,
Hampshire, Franklin, Berkshire and
Worcester counties.
Hampshire County Bar Association
15 Gothic St., Northampton, MA 01060
(413) 586-8729
Hampden County Bar Association Massachusetts Commission
50 State St., Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 732-4648
Against Discrimination
436 Dwight St., Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 739-2145
The commission investigates claims of
discrimination. You may face discrimination
because of your injury when you re-enter the
workforce, or when you apply for housing.
Family and Medical Leave Act
Wage and Hour Bureau
U.S. Department of Labor
JFK Federal Bldg., Boston, MA 02203
(617) 624-6700
This law allows you to take up to 12 weeks
unpaid leave for medical problems without
fear of being fired. It may be a good idea to
protect your job with the Family and
Medical Leave Act while pursuing workers
compensation benefits.
Americans with Disabilities Act
Stavros Center for Independent Living
691 South East St., Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 256-0473
See also U.S. Department of Justice ADA
www.ada.gov
This law requires employers to offer
reasonable accommodations to employees
with disabilities. Court decisions, however,
have made it more difficult to qualify as disabled.
Office of Disability
Employment Policy
U.S. Department of Labor
Frances Perkins Building
200 Constitution Ave., NW
Washington, D.C., 20210
(866) 633-7365, TDD (877) 889-5627
www.dol.gov/odep
Office of Attorney General/
Division of Fair Labor
1350 Main St., Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 784-1240
The office enforces employment laws
regarding job safety, child labor,
nonpayment of wages, and wage rates.
Massachusetts Client
Assistance Program
One Ashburton Place, Rm 1305
Boston, MA (800) 322-2020
This agency provides advocacy to people
trying to get services from the
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission,
the Massachusetts Commission for the
Blind, and the Independent Living Centers.
If you have a problem with the services that
you are getting from these agencies, CAP
will try to resolve the issue.
Citizens Information Service
(800) 392-6090; (413) 784-1376
One Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108
Freecycle
www.freecycle.org
This is a Yahoo group that allows members
to post items that they are willing to give
away for free. Other members of group
request these items.
First Call for Help
United Way Helpline
Hampden County
(413) 737-2712
First Call for Help of
Hampshire Community Action
(413) 582-4237
(800) 339-7779
American Red Cross
Pioneer Valley Chapter
506 Cottage St., Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 737-4306
Springfield Council of Churches
39 Oakland St., Springfield, MA 01108
(413) 733-2149
Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA)
436 Dwight St., Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 784-1133
Contact person: Edward Baijger
The DIA's Vocational Rehabilitation
Department may be able to work out a
retraining plan for you with the insurance
company paying for your course work. Not
everyone is eligible. The rehabilitation plan
may be to find another job for you without
retraining.
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
One Federal St., Springfield, 01105
(413) 736-7296, (413) 784-0431 (TTY only)
187 High St., Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 536-8200
The commission may pay money toward
college courses or vocational training. The
commission may also pay for special equipment.
Massachusetts Client Assistance Program
One Ashburton Place, Room 1305
Boston, MA 02108
(800) 322-2020
If you are having a dispute with the
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
over your retraining plan, CAP will attempt
to resolve it.
BenePLAN, Resource Partnership
Career Point, 850 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 532-4900. Contact: Teri O'Shea
The rules concerning working while on
SSDI or SSI are complicated. This program
offers counseling on how work will affect
your benefits. The counselor is not
employed by the Social Security
Administration and will not inform them of
your work activities.
Kay Harvey Hairdressing Academy
11 Central St., West Springfield, MA 01089
(413) 732-7117
Cosmetology and salon services are
provided at reduced rates.
Creative Schools of Hairdressing
786 Enfield St., Enfield, CT 06082
(860) 741-5562
This school has a salon open to the public at
reduced rates.
DiGrigoli School of Cosmetology
1578 Riverdale St.,
W. Springfield, MA 01089
(413) 827-8888
Cosmetology and salon services provided at
reduced rates.
Mansfield Beauty Schools
266 Bridge St., Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 788-7575
This school has a salon that is open to the
public at reduced rates.
William J. Dean Technical High School
1045 Main St., Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 534-2071
The school's cosmetology department has a
hair salon that is open to the public. Call for
hours.
Springfield Technical Community College
One Armory Square
Springfield, MA 01105
(413) 781-7822
Services at a reduced rate are available from
the cosmetology, dental hygiene, and
massage therapy departments.
Holyoke Health Center
230 Maple Street
Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 420-2210
Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Must bring proof of income and proof of
Massachusetts residency to appointment.
Some of the dental services provided include
extractions, x-rays, exams, extractions and
oral surgery.
Caring Health Center Dental Clinic
532 Sumner Avenue
Springfield, MA 01118
(413) 739-1100
Agawam Family Cinemas
866 Suffield St
Agawam, MA 01001
(413) 786-8800
All movie tickets for any show time on any
day are $4.
Showcase Cinemas Eastfield Mall
1655 Boston Road
Springfield, MA 01129
(413) 543-6000
All day every Tuesday movie tickets for any
show time are $5.
Massachusetts Assistive Technology Partnership Center
Children's Hospital
1295 Boylston St., Suite 310
Boston, MA 02215
(617) 355-7820
The center helps disabled people acquire adaptive equipment or devices.
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
Fort Point Place, Suite 600
27-43 Wormwood St.
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 727-2183, (800) 393-9324
The commission will sometimes provide equipment to the disabled.
Through the Looking Glass
National Resource Center for Parents with Disabilities
2198 Sixth St. Suite 100
Berkeley, CA, 94710-2204
(800) 644-2666; www.lookingglass.org
This organization publishes Adaptive Parenting Equipment: Idea Book 1
Alliance for Injured Workers
640 Page Boulevard
Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 731-0760
If you have no transportation to our
meetings, we will try to arrange a ride for
you.
MassHealth/Medicaid Transportation
(800) 841-2900
Transportation provided to MassHealth-
covered services for qualifying individuals.
Stavros Center for Independent Living
691 South East St., Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 256-0473
Pioneer Valley Transit Authority
Special Van Services
(800) 752-1638
(413) 732-6248, ext. 205
Van service for people who are unable to
ride the bus due to a disability.
PVTA Information Center
1776 Main Street, Springfield
(413) 781-7882
Regular daily fares for the PVTA are $1 and
regular monthly passes are $36. The elderly
and disabled are able to pay reduced rates on
both daily fares and monthly passes. Daily
fares are reduced to 50 cents and monthly
passes are reduced to $18. You need a
PVTA ID card in order to receive these
reduced prices. Call the information center
Monday- Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. for details on
how to apply. The ID card costs $1, and $2
for a replacement ID card.
Massachusetts Network of Information
Providers for People with Disabilities
(800) 642-0249
Referrals and information. Statewide
database includes geographic list of services.