Weymouth Social Services Guide Here to Help!

Transcription

Weymouth Social
Services Guide
Susan M. Kay
Mayor
Published February 2014
75 Middle Street
Weymouth, MA 02189
Here to Help!
www.weymouth.ma.us
The Town of Weymouth is dedicated to assisting individuals and families build their lives
with access to the services and security they need to be successful. Alongside both the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts and local community organizations, Weymouth offers a
variety of social services that reduce costs and provide aid for many residents, especially
income-qualified families, persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and veterans. We
encourage residents to utilize these services and to refer any family members, friends, or
neighbors who may be eligible to make use of them.
This publication summarizes many services that are available to qualifying individuals and
families in Weymouth. For assistance in making informed decisions, residents are invited to
call Weymouth Youth & Family Services at (781) 331-1719 if under age 60 or Weymouth
Elder Services at (781) 682-6140 if age 60+ to ask questions. Calls are confidential.
Additional copies of this publication may be found online at the Town’s home webpage:
www.weymouth.ma.us. If you would like a printed copy, please contact Constituent
Services at (781) 340-5012 or email constituentservices@weymouth.ma.us. Please include
your name, address, and phone number in any correspondence.
Service Areas
Child Care & Early Education
2
Disability
2
Employment
3
Energy
3
Food & Nutrition
4
Emergency & Supplemental Food, Home Meals & Nutrition, Student Meals, SNAP/Food Stamps
Health
6
Benefits Enrollment & Counseling, Community Programs, Medical Services & Equipment, Medication
Disposal, Mental Health, Oral Health, Physical Education & Exercise, Substance Abuse
Housing
10
Emergency Shelter, First-Time Home Purchases, Mortgage Assistance, Permanent Housing
Safety
13
Anti-Discrimination, Domestic Violence, Home Living
Taxes & Finances
14
Billing Discounts & Tax Exemptions, Estate & Financial Planning, Tax Preparation
Transportation
15
Veterans
16
Youths
16
Symbol indicates that the service provider is located within 0.25 miles of a MBTA stop.
Child Care & Early Education
Quincy Community Action Programs: Community Care for Kids
1509 Hancock Street 3rd Floor, Quincy
(617) 657-5305 / (800) 637-2011 / www.communitycareforkids.net
Community Care for Kids provides subsidies to help income-eligible families pay for the cost
of child care. It also provides families of all income levels with customized lists of child care
and early education providers based on their needs.
Community Care for Kids is
Weymouth’s designated Child Care Resource and Referral agency under the Massachusetts
Department of Early Education and Care.
Quincy Community Action Programs: Head Start Early Learning Center
22 Pray Street, Quincy
(617) 249-2000 / www.qcap.org
Head Start provides comprehensive early education and family services that promote school
readiness in pre-school age children. This federally-funded program is open to children age
birth to five (0-5) from income-qualified households. Learning centers are operated in
Quincy and South Weymouth.
Weymouth Public Schools: Child Family Community Center
Johnson Early Childhood Center, 70 Pearl Street, North Weymouth
Ask to speak with Weymouth’s CFCE Coordinator.
(781) 340-6098 / www.weymouthschools.org/johnson_sub.aspx?id=1473
The Child Family Community Center provides education, play, and referral resources to
Weymouth families with children age birth to eight (0-8). No-cost services include child
development screenings and provider referrals to assist families with making informed
decisions about their children’s care and early education. Play groups are offered Monday
through Friday year round for a $50 annual registration fee. Other services available to
registered families include parent workshops, story times, and special play activities at
community locations (e.g., libraries and parks). The Center is funded by the Massachusetts
Department of Early Education and Care under the Commonwealth’s Coordinated Family
and Community Engagement (CFCE) Program.
Disability
ARC of the South Shore
371 River Street, North Weymouth
(781) 335-3023 / www.arcsouthshore.org
The ARC of the South Shore provides a continuum of services to children and adults with
cognitive, physical, and other developmental and intellectual disabilities. Services are
designed to fully integrate individuals into the life of the community, be responsive to
personal and family needs, and incorporate effective systems of family support.
Boston Center for Independent Living
60 Temple Place, Boston
(617) 338-6665 / www.bostoncil.org
The Boston Center for Independent Living provides peer mentoring, skills training, and
comprehensive information and referrals services to persons with disabilities.
It is
Weymouth’s designated service provider under the Commonwealth’s network of
Independent Living Centers.
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Social Services Guide 2 | P a g e
Weymouth Commission on Disabilities
Weymouth Town Hall, 75 Middle Street, East Weymouth
Ask to speak with Weymouth’s ADA Coordinator.
(781) 682-3595 / adacoordinator@weymouth.ma.us / www.weymouth.ma.us
The Weymouth Commission on Disabilities provides assistance and referral services to
persons with disabilities in order to facilitate their full participation in all municipal activities,
programs, and services. It is the policy of the Town of Weymouth to make reasonable
modifications to its procedures and programs as necessary to accommodate the needs of an
otherwise qualified person with a disability. Residents are invited to contact Weymouth’s
ADA Coordinator to request any reasonable modifications or auxiliary aids and services that
are required to accommodate participation (e.g., sign language interpreters and assistive
listening devices). Surcharges will not be assessed for any costs related to the participation
of persons with disabilities.
Employment
Interfaith Social Services: Career Closet
105 Adams Street, Quincy
(617) 773-6203 / info@interfaithsocialservices.org / www.interfaithsocialservices.org
The Career Closet provides free professional attire to income-qualified job seekers.
Volunteers assist clients in choosing outfits that are suitable for either interviews or
employment from a large selection of gently worn clothing.
Quincy Career Center
152 Parkingway, Quincy
(617) 745-4000 / www.quincycareercenter.org
The Quincy Career Center is Weymouth’s local provider under the Commonwealth's network
of One-Stop Career Centers for all employment and training services. It provides no-cost
access to career counseling, job listings, needs assessments, and skills workshops to match
any job seeker with the work he or she desires. A priority of service is given to veterans
and eligible spouses under the Jobs for Veterans Act. For persons claiming unemployment
insurance, the Quincy Career Center provides access to self-service computers for the online
application and management of benefits through the Commonwealth’s web-based claim
system: www.mass.gov/lwd/unemployment-insur/claimants/.
Energy
Quincy Community Action Programs: Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP)
1509 Hancock Street 4th Floor, Quincy
(617) 479-8181 / www.qcap.org
Quincy Community Action is Weymouth’s local provider of Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) through
the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development. This program
helps income-qualified households cover heating expenses from November to April.
Households that qualify for Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) may also receive energy service
discounts up to 30% from National Grid or NSTAR. Quincy Community Action can assist
with notifying these providers.
Salvation Army: Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund
25 Shawmut Road, Canton
(800) 334-3047 / Canton Service Center: (339) 502-5900 / www.magoodneighbor.org
The Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund offers energy-cost aid to income-eligible
families who do not qualify for Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) from the Commonwealth but still
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cannot meet a month’s energy expenses due to temporary financial difficulties. Requests
for aid are processed through designated Salvation Army Service Centers across the state.
Private donations and a variety of giving programs sponsored by Massachusetts energy
companies are used to sustain the Fund.
Weymouth Elder Services
Whipple Senior Center, 182 Green Street, North Weymouth
(781) 682-6140 / www.weymouth.ma.us
Weymouth Elder Services provides help to seniors age 60+ with enrollment in Fuel
Assistance (LIHEAP) under the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community
Development. This program helps income-qualified households cover heating expenses
from November to April and is administered locally by the Quincy Community Action
Programs. Outreach Workers at the Whipple Senior Center are available at no cost to guide
seniors through the application process.
Weymouth Youth & Family Services
Teen Center, 1393 Pleasant Street, East Weymouth
Weymouth Youth & Family Services offers emergency energy-cost assistance to residents
and families in need. Financial help is capped at $100 per year for electricity and $200 per
year for oil, propane, and natural gas.
Food & Nutrition
Emergency & Supplemental Food
Quincy Community Action Programs: Emergency Food Center
Southwest Community Center, 1 Copeland Street, Quincy
(617) 471-0796 / www.qcap.org
The Emergency Food Center provides fresh and non-perishable foods once a month to
Weymouth households in need. It has a large walk-in refrigerator and freezer on site and
stocks many food products that people require for good nutrition.
Weymouth Food Pantry
Former Immaculate Conception School, 1189 Commercial Street, East Weymouth
(781) 331-7682 / info@WeymouthFoodPantry.org / www.weymouthfoodpantry.org
The Weymouth Food Pantry offers emergency and supplemental food supplies to residents
in need. Residents typically receive a 3-4 day food supply per month and are invited to
select groceries from a standard list that best fit their household needs.
Weymouth Elder Services offers emergency food boxes to seniors age 60+ when their
primary food pantry is not available. Outreach Workers are also on staff to assist seniors
with finding additional resources for food and nutrition.
Weymouth Youth & Family Services
Weymouth Youth & Family Services offers emergency non-perishable foods to residents and
families who cannot access their primary food pantry.
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Home Meals & Nutrition
Quincy WIC Nutrition Program
Pilgrim Congregational Church, 24 Athens Street, North Weymouth
(617) 337-5920 / www.quincywic.org
WIC provides nutrition education and food-costs assistance to income-eligible families with
a child under age five (5), including mothers, fathers, foster parents, grandparents, and
legal guardians. Services include but are not limited to breastfeeding support, nutrition
consultations, and redeemable checks to purchase healthy food at your local grocery store
or the Weymouth Farmer’s Market.
Weymouth Elder Services provides help to seniors age 60+ with enrollment in the Meals on
Wheels Program administered through South Shore Elder Services. This program delivers
nutritious meals to qualifying seniors based on their needs, both short and long term.
Program participants may also choose to have their meals prepared and served three (3)
days a week (with one week advance notice) at the Cozy Corner Café located inside the
Whipple Senior Center.
Student Meals
Project Bread: Summer Food Service Program
Lakeview Manor Community Center, 77 Memorial Drive, East Weymouth
Pleasantville Community Center, Garafalo Road – Off Pleasant Street, East Weymouth
(800) 645-8333 / www.meals4kids.org/sfsp
The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) provides free nutritious meals to children ages
18 and under when school is not in session. Weymouth hosts two SFSP meal sites available
Monday through Friday 12:00 pm – 12:30 pm throughout the summer. No registration is
required for Weymouth children to participate. SFSP is federally funded and administered
by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education in cooperation
with Project Bread.
Weymouth Public Schools: National School Lunch Program
111 Middle Street, East Weymouth
Ask to speak with Weymouth’s Food Service Director.
(781) 337-8430 / www.weymouthschools.org/foodservice.aspx
Weymouth Public Schools provide nutritionally balanced, free or reduced-price meals to
students from income-eligible families, including those who are homeless or caring for foster
children. The National School Lunch Program is federally funded and administered by the
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Parents and legal
guardians should complete only one application for all school-age children in their
household. Applications are available online (see link above). Take-home copies are also
provided to students at the beginning of each school year. Completed applications should
be returned to the school which your youngest child attends.
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SNAP/Food Stamps
Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistant (DTA)
(866) 950-3663 / www.mass.gov/snap
DTA offers a Virtual Gateway to help Massachusetts residents enroll in SNAP (formerly the
Food Stamps Program).
This online site is entirely self-service with an anonymous
screening tool and a “My Accounts” page for managing your SNAP benefits.
Quincy Community Action Programs: DTA Outpost & Emergency Food Center
Appointment Services: Southwest Community Center, 1 Copeland Street, Quincy
Walk-In (WI) Services: 1509 Hancock Street 4th Floor, Quincy
WI Services available Mondays & Thursdays 8:30 am – 4:30 pm; days & times are subject to change.
(617) 471-0796 / www.qcap.org
Quincy Community Action provides both appointment and walk-in services to assist
residents with enrollment in SNAP (formerly the Food Stamps Program). Staff members use
the Commonwealth’s online Virtual Gateway to prepare and submit your application. SNAP
benefits are federally funded and administered by the Massachusetts Department of
Transitional Assistance.
Health
Benefits Enrollment & Counseling
Manet Community Health Center
110 West Squantum Street, North Quincy
Additional offices located in Hough’s Neck, Hull, Quincy Medical Center, and Snug Harbor.
(617) 376-3000 / www.manetchc.org
Manet Community Health Center (MCHC) offers assistance to individuals and families with
both enrollment in health insurance and the navigation of benefits. Services are available for
a variety of qualified health plans, including but not limited to ConnectorCare, MassHealth,
Medicare, and any plan offered through the Massachusetts Health Connector. Residents are
encouraged to contact MCHC to schedule an appointment with an Outreach & Enrollment
Specialist at a convenient community location (e.g., the Weymouth Food Pantry in East
Weymouth or Quincy WIC in North Weymouth). Interpreter services are available in
several languages.
Quincy Community Action Programs
Southwest Community Center, 1 Copeland Street, Quincy
(617) 471-0796 / www.qcap.org
Quincy Community Action provides help to residents with the preparation and submission of
applications for ConnectorCare and MassHealth, the Commonwealth’s publically-subsidized
health insurance plans. Residents must contact Quincy Community Action at the Southwest
Community Center to schedule an appointment.
Weymouth Elder Services provides help to seniors age 60+ with enrollment in health
insurance and the navigation of benefits. Services are available for all qualified health
plans, including but not limited to Medicare and MassHealth. A certified SHINE Counselor
(Serving Health Information Needs of Elders) is available by appointment to provide
accurate and unbiased information about seniors’ benefits and care options.
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Community Programs
South Shore Hospital: Community Benefits Programs
55 Fogg Road, South Weymouth
(781) 624-8000 / Physician Referrals: (781) 624-6673 / www.southshorehospital.org
For Complete Telephone Directory Information: www.southshorehospital.org/contact-us
For Directions & Parking Information: www.southshorehospital.org/directions-and-parking
Community Benefits Programs are designed to serve the health and wellness needs of
Weymouth’s most vulnerable populations, including seniors, youths, low-income
households, and persons with disabilities or chronic and terminal illnesses. These programs
are generously provided by South Shore Hospital and incorporate a wide variety of services.
Among these are chronic disease self-management programs; community exercise classes;
flu vaccines and prevention resources; an online health information library; women and
family educational classes; a smoking cessation program; and numerous support groups for
persons coping with bereavement, cancer care, or other health-related concerns. While
many Community Benefits Programs are free of charge, registration is often required to
assure space, and residents are encouraged to contact South Shore Hospital or visit its
webpage of classes and events for more information: www.southshorehospital.org/classesand-events.
Medical Services & Equipment
Manet Community Health Center
110 West Squantum Street, North Quincy
Additional offices are located in Hough’s Neck, Hull, Quincy Medical Center, and Snug Harbor.
(617) 376-3000 / www.manetchc.org
Manet Community Health Center is Weymouth’s dominate federally qualified health center,
offering comprehensive, affordable medical services with fees based on a sliding income
scale. Medical practices include but are not limited to family medicine, chronic disease
management, internal medicine, and prenatal care. Health Benefits Counselors provide
expert help to patients with navigating their insurance plans so as to best cover their test
and treatment costs. Free testing for Hepatitis C, HIV, and sexually transmitted infections
is also available. Interpreter services are available in several languages.
South Shore Hospital
55 Fogg Road, South Weymouth
(781) 624-8000 / Physician Referrals: (781) 624-6673 / www.southshorehospital.org
For Complete Telephone Directory Information: www.southshorehospital.org/contact-us
For Directions & Parking Information: www.southshorehospital.org/directions-and-parking
South Shore Hospital (SSH) is Weymouth’s largest, not-for-profit medical care facility and
the region’s leading provider of care in the following areas: cardiac, emergency, home
health, hospice, maternity, oncology, outpatient, pediatric, and surgical. Over the years,
SSH has partnered with a number of premier medical centers within the Greater Boston
Metropolitan Area to share the services and expertise of their physicians. Among these are
Boston Children’s Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Dana-Farber/Brigham
and Women’s Cancer Center. For referrals to physicians and community health services,
residents are invited to contact SSH’s 24-hour information line at (781) 624-MORE/6673.
Weymouth Elder Services: Medical Equipment Loan Closet
Weymouth Elder Services lends free medical equipment (shower chairs, walkers, wheel
chairs, etc.) to seniors age 60+. It also hosts regular blood pressure clinics on the first and
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third Wednesday of every month, and additional clinics and/or screenings are offered
throughout the year for foot care, hearing, nutrition, and vision. Seniors are invited to
contact Weymouth Elder Services for information about upcoming clinics as well as health
education lectures and wellness programs.
Weymouth Health Department
The Weymouth Health Department offers an assortment of community clinics throughout
the year, providing residents with access to immunizations, vitamin injections, screenings,
and tests.
Residents are invited to contact the Weymouth Health Department for
information about upcoming clinics as well as current health and wellness programs. For
residents who are homebound or cannot travel without substantial difficulty, services may
be delivered to homes based on individual needs.
Medication Disposal
Weymouth Department of Public Works: Needle Disposal Kiosk
120 Winter Street 2nd Floor, East Weymouth
The Weymouth Department of Public Works (DPW) provides a self-service Needle Disposal
Kiosk for residents to safely dispose of hypodermic needles. Residents may access the
Kiosk Monday through Friday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. All needles must be deposited using a
rigid, puncture-resistant plastic container (13” x 8” max. size) with a secure cap. After
visiting the Kiosk, residents are encouraged to ask a DPW employee for a free disposal
container to be used in the future. The needle collection unit was donated by Manet
Community Health Center with funding from the Massachusetts Department of Public
Health.
Weymouth Police Department: MedReturn Drug Collection Kiosk
140 Winter Street, East Weymouth
The Weymouth Police Department provides a self-service MedReturn Drug Collection Kiosk
for residents to safely dispose of unwanted prescription and non-prescription medications.
Residents may access the Kiosk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Medications must be
deposited using a clear, re-sealable plastic bag or the medication’s original container with
the person’s name and prescription number masked. The Kiosk cannot be used to dispose
of aerosols, needles, thermometers, or bloody/infectious waste. The medication collection
unit was donated by Impact Quincy, a program of Bay State Community Services, with
funding from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Substance Abuse
Services.
Mental Health
South Bay Mental Health: Weymouth Clinic
Stetson Medical Center, 541 Main Street Suite 303, South Weymouth
(781) 331-7866 / www.southbaymentalhealth.com
South Bay Mental Health offers comprehensive behavioral health services for children,
adults and families. Its certified clinicians take a community-based approach to satisfying
treatment needs by delivering services “at our place or yours” and by assisting clients with
navigating their health insurance plans to best cover treatment costs.
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Oral Health
Polished Teeth & Quincy WIC Nutrition Program
Pilgrim Congregational Church, 24 Athens Street, North Weymouth
(617) 337-5920 / www.quincywic.org
Polished Teeth is a portable oral health program open to all children, adults and families. It
provides preventive dental care, including professional cleanings and fluoride varnish
applications at no cost to participants. Services are provided by appointment, typically on
the third Thursday of every month 9:30 am – 2:30 pm at Quincy WIC in North Weymouth.
Physical Education & Exercise
Weymouth Elder Services offers both wellness education workshops and low-cost weekly
fitness classes to seniors age 60+. A current schedule of classes can be found in the
Division’s monthly newsletter, “Weymouth Elder Horizons.” This newsletter is available for
viewing
online:
www.weymouth.ma.us/index.php/departments/elder-services-division.
Printed copies are also available at Weymouth Town Hall, the Whipple Senior Center, and
various community locations around Weymouth, including banks, churches, grocery stores,
housing complexes, libraries, pharmacies, and post offices.
Weymouth Health Department: Healthy Wey Mass-In-Motion
Ask to speak with Weymouth’s Wellness Coordinator.
(781) 340-5008 / www.weymouth.ma.us/index.php/healthy-wey
Healthy Wey is the Town’s Mass-In-Motion Program, creating opportunities for all residents
to eat healthy and move more. The program offers community fitness classes every
Monday and Wednesday afternoon 4:45 pm – 5:30 pm for a nominal drop-in fee at the
Whipple Senior Center in North Weymouth (182 Green Street). Classes are designed for
adults ages 13 and older, incorporating low-impact workouts to support weight loss and
overall strength conditioning.
Substance Abuse
Alcoholics Anonymous
(617) 426-9444 / www.aaboston.org
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers a worldwide network of peer-lead support groups to help
any person who suffers from alcoholism to stay sober. Members are encouraged to stay
away from alcohol one day at a time and are guided through the process of building their
lives by the examples and friendships of recovered alcoholics, as well as AA’s “Twelve
Steps” to recovery. There are no dues or fees associated with AA membership, and groups
are available at numerous locations and times throughout Weymouth. Persons who wish to
achieve sobriety and find a local support group are encouraged to call (617) 426-9444 or
search the online locator provided by the AA Central Service Committee of Eastern
Massachusetts: www.aabosmeetings.org/search.aspx.
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Learn to Cope
Quincy Chapter: Eastern Nazarene College, 180 Old Colony Avenue, Quincy
Meeting Days & Times: Tuesdays 7:00 pm
Locations & times are subject to change.
(508) 738-5148 / www.learn2cope.org
Learn to Cope (LTC) offers a peer-lead support network to help the families and friends of
any person suffering from an opioid addiction (e.g., heroin or oxycodone). LTC Chapters
hold weekly group meetings during which participants are encouraged to share experiences,
resources, and strategies on motivating loved ones to seek treatment.
A private,
confidential forum is also available online. All LTC services are provided at no cost by peer
facilitators who have real world experience in coping with addiction in their own families.
Manet Community Health Center: Overdose Education & Narcan® Distribution
Warren Nicoli, Prevention Specialist
180 George Washington Boulevard, Hull
Additional offices are located in Hough’s Neck, North Quincy, Quincy Medical Center, and Snug Harbor.
(781) 925-4550 / Mobile: (857) 939-4108 / wnicoli@manetchc.org / www.manetchc.org
Manet Community Health Center (MCHC) provides overdose education and Narcan®
distribution to any resident who knows or cares for someone with an opioid addiction (e.g.,
heroin or oxycodone). Narcan® is a safe and effective antidote that reverses the lifethreatening effects of an opioid overdose. Families and friends of opioid users are strongly
encouraged to contact MCHC’s Prevention Specialist to receive a free overdose prevention
kit containing Narcan® and learn how to prevent, recognize and respond to an overdose.
Persons suffering from an opioid addiction, or any other substance abuse disorder, are also
strongly encouraged to contact MCHC’s Prevention Specialist at the phone number above to
arrange no-cost testing for Hepatitis C, HIV, and sexually transmitted infections. Calls are
confidential.
Weymouth Health Department: Substance Abuse Prevention Team
Ask to speak with Weymouth’s Drug-Free Community Coordinator.
(781) 340-5008 / www.weymouth.ma.us/index.php/did-you-know
The Substance Abuse Prevention Team (SAPT) offers information and referral services to
individuals and families touched by addiction. Residents are invited to contact Weymouth’s
Drug-Free Community Coordinator to determine what local prevention and/or treatment
programs might fit your needs or the needs of a loved one. Residents are also encouraged
to participate in SAPT’s monthly meetings to learn about current substance abuse
prevention programs within the community and share ideas for improving access to
addiction education, prevention, and treatment. SAPT meets the first Monday of every
month 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at the Teen Center in East Weymouth (1393 Pleasant Street).
Housing
Emergency Shelter
Father Bill’s & MainSpring *Individual Shelter*
Father Bill’s House (FB), 38 Broad Street, Quincy
MainSpring House (MS), 54 North Main Street, Brockton
FB: (617) 770-3314 / MS: (508) 587-5441 / www.helpfbms.org
Father Bill’s & MainSpring provide emergency shelter in Quincy and Brockton for individuals
ages 18 and older experiencing homelessness.
Stays may be limited to three (3)
consecutive nights. However, individuals who can verify employment, family presence,
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former residence, or school attendance in a South Shore community may be permitted to
stay longer and receive case management services.
Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) *Family Shelter*
75 Commercial Street, Brockton
(508) 895-7000
The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) provides emergency help to
income-eligible families with children, as well as pregnant women, who have no safe place
to live or sleep. Qualified families are typically referred by a DTA Homeless Coordinator to a
family shelter or a motel for temporary housing. Most family shelters require a referral from
DTA before they will accept guests. If your family has no safe place to live or sleep and you
are unable to access DTA due to hours or transportation restrictions, please visit Weymouth
Youth & Family Services at 1393 Pleasant Street during weekdays or the Weymouth Police
Department at 140 Winter Street during nights and weekends for emergency help.
First-Time Home Purchases
NeighborWorks Southern Mass: Home Ownership Center
Formerly known as Neighborhood Housing Services
422 Washington Street, Quincy
(617) 770-2227 / www.neighborhoodhousing.org
NeighborWorks Southern Mass offers low-cost education workshops for first-time home
buyers across the South Shore. Workshop participants receive coaching and information
from a variety of housing professionals. They are also given the opportunity to be prequalified by at least one lender. After completing a workshop, eligible participants may
apply to receive need-based financial aid for down payments and closing costs. They may
also qualify for one or more affordable home loans through either MassHousing or the
Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP). NeighborWorks Southern Mass is an approved
Housing Counseling Agency by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development,
and funding for financial aid is provided by the Commonwealth’s Department of Housing and
Community Development.
South Shore HOME Consortium: First-Time Home Buyers Program
Ask to speak with Weymouth’s Housing Coordinator.
(781) 340-5015 / www.weymouth.ma.us/index.php/departments/department-of-planningand-community-development/
The South Shore HOME Consortium provides help to income-eligible persons and families
who intend to purchase a first home in Weymouth. The program has two separate
components: (1) financial aid for down payments and closing costs and (2) access to a
SoftSecond Mortgage with interest-only payments for 10 years. Interested first-time home
buyers are encouraged to contact Weymouth’s Housing Coordinator for an initial
consultation. Additional information, including the program’s application, is available online:
www.quincyma.gov/CityOfQuincy_Content/documents/FTHB%20Program%20Application%2
0updated%20%203-15-2013-Q.pdf.
The South Shore HOME Consortium represents a
partnership between five continuous south shore communities and is supported by the
federal HOME Program under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
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Mortgage Assistance
NeighborWorks Southern Mass: Foreclosure Counseling Center
68 Legion Parkway, Brockton
NeighborWorks Southern Mass provides free one-on-one counseling to homeowners
currently facing, or at risk of facing, a home foreclosure. Professional housing counselors
not only mediate with lenders and loan servicers but also guide their clients through the
mortgage modification process to best resolve foreclosure issues. Residents who are
experiencing difficulties in satisfying their mortgage payments are encouraged to contact
NeighborWorks Southern Mass to schedule an intake appointment. A list of documents
required for intake can be found online: www.neighborhoodhousing.org/ProgramsForeclosure-Assistance.asp.
NeighborWorks Southern Mass is an approved Housing
Counseling Agency by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Permanent Housing
NeighborWorks Southern Mass: Home Rehabilitation & Improvement Program
422 Washington Street, Quincy
NeighborWorks Southern Mass offers financial aid for housing rehabilitation and
improvements to income-eligible homeowners in Weymouth. Emergency grants up to
$3,000 are available for small repairs (e.g., furnaces, hot water heaters, and insulated
windows) while larger rehabilitation or improvement projects are funded through loans with
varying rates and terms to meet specific homeowner needs. Most projects are required to
resolve incipient code violations and/or advance energy conservation. Funding is provided
in part by the Town of Weymouth through the federal Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) Program.
South Shore Housing
169 Summer Street, Kingston
(781) 422-4200 / www.southshorehousing.org
South Shore Housing (SSH) provides counseling, education, and financial aid to help
income-eligible families secure or retain permanent housing. Families who are homeless, or
at risk of becoming homeless, are encouraged to contact SSH for assistance. SSH Staff will
develop best responses to meet your family’s needs. Such responses may include multipurpose, short-term financial aid through the Commonwealth’s homeless prevention
program known as RAFT (Residential Assistance for Families in Transition).
SSH is
Weymouth’s regional administrator of the RAFT program under the Massachusetts
Department of Housing and Community Development. It also serves as Weymouth’s local
service provider under the Commonwealth’s network of Housing Consumer Education
Centers.
Weymouth Housing Authority
402 Essex Street, East Weymouth
(781) 331-2323 / www.weymouthha.com
The Weymouth Housing Authority provides subsidized state and federal housing to incomeeligible families and seniors, as well as persons with disabilities. Units are located within
five (5) housing complexes throughout the Town. The Weymouth Housing Authority also
administers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program; the Massachusetts Rental
Voucher Program; and the Massachusetts Alternative Housing Voucher Program.
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Weymouth Elder Services provides help to seniors age 60+ with information and referrals
for determining the best use of resources to satisfy their needs in any living situation. This
may include but is not limited to assisted living facilities, publically-subsidized housing,
skilled nursing facilities, and independent living at home.
Safety
Anti-Discrimination
Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD): GLAD Answers
(800) 455-4523 / www.gladanswers.org
GLAD Answers is a free legal rights information portal for any New England person who is
impacted by LGBTQ and HIV laws or discrimination. Trained volunteers provide one-on-one,
confidential help by phone, email, and online chat.
Information resources include
educational publications on LGBTQ-HIV topics, as well as referrals to experienced attorneys
and organizations for legal or other services.
Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination
One Ashburton Place 6th Floor Room 601, Boston
(617) 994-6000 / www.mass.gov/mcad
The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) investigates public
complaints of unlawful discrimination in the Commonwealth. Any person who experiences
discrimination may file a complaint with MCAD, either in person or in writing, within 300
days of the unlawful act. Although the complaint process is designed to allow individuals to
represent themselves without an attorney, state residents are encouraged to call MCAD in
advance to schedule an appointment and determine what information will be needed to
pursue their complaints.
Domestic Violence
Weymouth Police Department
Ask to speak with Gwen DeVasto, Weymouth’s Domestic Violence Advocate.
The Weymouth Police Department provides immediate assistance to any resident
experiencing domestic violence. If you find yourself in a domestic violence situation, you
have the right to request that a Weymouth Police Officer remain at your home until you can
safely exit with your children and that he or she assists you in locating and arriving at a
place of safety. If medical treatment is required, you may request that the officer drive you
to the nearest hospital or otherwise assist you in obtaining treatment. Residents in need
should not hesitate to contact Weymouth’s Domestic Violence Advocate for information on
your rights and local resources, as well as referrals to a justice of the Superior Court,
District Court, or Probate & Family Court. Calls are confidential. A list of additional
resources for any person experiencing domestic violence is available on the Department’s
website: www.weymouth.ma.us/index.php/departments/police-department/domestic-violence-info/.
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Home Living
Weymouth Elder Services offers home visits and needs assessments for seniors age 60+.
Home visits are conducted by Outreach Workers who connect seniors with the care and
resources they require to live safely and independently in their own homes. Weymouth
Elder Services also provides referrals for handyman repairs (at nominal costs) to help
seniors maintain the physical safety of their homes, as well as referrals for the installation
and/or replacement of smoke detectors with the assistance of Local Firefighter Union 1616.
Weymouth Health Department
The Weymouth Health Department provides housing inspections upon request from
residents and other municipal departments to assess the safety and sanitation of livings
spaces. Under certain conditions, Public Health Nurses may be asked to accompany the
inspectors in order to conduct medical checks, as well as administer immunizations or
vitamin injections, especially when there is a suspicion that an underlying medical condition
is contributing to a housing issue. Persons concerned with the health and/or home safety of
a family member, friend, or neighbor in the Town are invited to contact the Weymouth
Health Department for consideration of a housing inspection.
Taxes & Finances
Billing Discounts & Tax Exemptions
Weymouth Department of Public Works (DPW): Senior Citizen Discount Program
The Weymouth Department of Public Works provides discounts on water bills to seniors
ages 65 and older who are residential owner occupants. The program deducts $15 per bill
up to a $60 cap per year. To maintain enrollment in the program, seniors must submit a
completed Application for Senior Citizen Discount every year.
Weymouth Municipal Finance Department
Weymouth Town Hall (Tax Office), 75 Middle Street, East Weymouth
The Town of Weymouth offers exemptions in real estate taxes to assist the following
homeowners: persons who are blind; veterans with service-related disabilities; surviving
spouses of any age; and seniors over age 70 who meet certain asset and income
requirements. An exemption from the Community Preservation Act surcharge is also
available to homeowners based on income qualifications. Additionally, homeowners over
age 65 who satisfy certain income requirements may choose to defer their real estate taxes
and thus postpone payment until home ownership is transferred. Residents who may be
eligible to make use of these exemptions are invited to contact the Weymouth Municipal
Finance Department for additional information and application instructions. Qualifying real
estate owners must apply for their exemptions every year.
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Estate & Financial Planning
Weymouth Elder Services offers help to seniors age 60+ with estate and financial planning
through access to free half-hour consultations with either a licensed attorney or financial
advisor. Each type of consultation is provided once or twice a month by appointment only.
Lectures are also offered throughout the year.
Tax Preparation
AARP Foundation: Tax-Aid Program
(888) 227-7669 / taxaide@aarp.org / www.aarp.org
The AARP Foundation Tax-Aid Program provides help to income-qualified persons across the
Commonwealth with the preparation of their federal and state tax returns. The program is
offered in cooperation with the IRS and runs each year from February 1st to the tax filing
deadline.
Trained volunteers prepare participant’s returns in one hour sessions by
appointment only. To locate a program site in or around Weymouth, residents are
encouraged to call (888) 227-7669 or visit the online AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Locator:
www.aarp.org/applications/VMISLocator/searchTaxAideLocations.action.
Weymouth Elder Services offers free on-site assistance with tax preparation to seniors age
60+ through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aid Program. Trained volunteers prepare seniors’
federal and state tax returns in one hour sessions by appointment only. The program is
offered in cooperation with the IRS and runs reach year from February 1st to April 15th.
Seniors are invited to contact Weymouth Elder Services for scheduling information and
appointment times.
Transportation
Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA): THE RIDE
Eligibility Center, 500 Rutherford Avenue 3rd Floor, Boston (Charlestown)
(617) 337-2727 / Manage Trips: (888) 920-7433 / www.mbta.com/fares_and_passes/ride
THE RIDE is operated by the MBTA in 60 Massachusetts cities and towns. It provides doorto-door paratransit (i.e., flexible rides) to eligible persons who cannot use other modes of
public transportation due to a cognitive, mental, or physical disability. Individuals must
interview with a Mobility Coordinator in person before they can become registered
passengers. Residents who may be eligible for THE RIDE should contact the Eligibility
Center at (617) 337-2727 to schedule an appointment. Registered passengers may call
(888) 920-7433 to schedule trips.
Ask to speak with Weymouth’s Transportation Coordinator.
Weymouth Elder Services provides scheduled transportation for seniors age 60+. Priority is
given to trips for medical purposes, but seniors may also request rides to grocery stores,
shopping centers, and some senior center events. Trips to medical facilities in or around
Boston are also available. Donations are appreciated, and a list of suggested amounts is
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available. Rides may be scheduled Monday through Friday 8:30 am – 2:00 pm. Seniors
should contact Weymouth’s Transportation Coordinator to schedule trips.
Veterans
Weymouth Veterans Services
Ask to speak with Weymouth’s Veterans Services Officer.
Weymouth Veterans Services provides comprehensive support to veterans, their spouses,
and their dependents. It serves as a one-stop resource for information and help relating to
all military service benefits, including career training, job placement, and enrollment in
public assistance programs. Veterans of any age, as well as their families, are encouraged
to contact Weymouth Veterans Services and ask how the Division can best serve your
needs.
Youths
Weymouth Youth & Family Services: Teen Center
The Teen Center offers a safe, professionally supervised environment for Weymouth
students (grades six through 12) to gather with their peers and spend their leisure time
during non-school hours. The Center is open year round, five days a week, Monday through
Thursday 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm and Friday 2:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Students have free access to
computers, fitness equipment, game tables, homework help, video consoles, and other
youth related resources. Special events and group trips are also scheduled throughout the
year at little or no cost to participants.
The Weymouth Social Services Guide was assembled using a variety of public information
sources as well as input from multiple municipal departments. It is not meant to be an
exhaustive directory of social service providers. Nor does the mention of any non-municipal
facility, organization, program, or service provider constitute an endorsement by the Town
of Weymouth. All information was determined to be accurate at the time of publication and
will be periodically updated. To report any errors in information or to request the inclusion
of a new reference, please contact Constituent Services at (781) 340-5012 or email
constituentservices@weymouth.ma.us. Please include your name, address, and phone
number in any correspondence.
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Weymouth Social Services Guide Here to Help!

Transcription

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