5 Resources
State housing finance agency offering affordable mortgages, down payment assistance, rental assistance programs, and homebuyer education for Massachusetts residents. Mortgages are available through participating lenders statewide; income and purchase price limits apply. Homebuyer education classes are required for many programs and are offered online and in person through approved providers. Visit the website to compare programs and find a participating lender.
617-854-1000 · 1 Beacon St, Suite 3100, Boston, MA 02108
State Department of Housing and Community Development (now part of the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities) oversees public housing, Section 8, MRVP and other rental assistance, homelessness prevention (RAFT and ERMA), and community development across Massachusetts. Most benefits are accessed through local housing authorities and community action agencies; the state website lists the local office for every city and town.
617-573-1100 · 100 Cambridge St, Suite 300, Boston, MA 02114
Federal Housing and Urban Development office overseeing public housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, Fair Housing enforcement, and HUD-approved housing counseling in Massachusetts. Individual applications for Section 8 go through local housing authorities, not this office. Call 1-800-569-4287 for free HUD-approved housing counseling on budgeting, buying, foreclosure prevention, and rental issues; bring income info, lease or mortgage, and any notices.
617-994-8200 · 10 Causeway St, Room 301, Boston, MA 02222
Statewide policy organization providing housing resources, tenant guides, affordable housing search tools, and foreclosure prevention information for Massachusetts residents. Does not take individual tenant cases; instead publishes guides in English, Spanish, and other languages and connects renters and owners to HUD-approved housing counselors and local legal aid. Visit the website for free downloadable guides and a directory of MA housing counseling agencies.
617-742-0820 · 18 Tremont St, Suite 401, Boston, MA 02108
New England's largest homeless services provider, offering emergency shelter for men and women, permanent supportive housing, workforce development, and outreach to people sleeping rough in Greater Boston. Emergency shelter is accessible on a walk-in basis at the Harrison Ave campus; call ahead for current bed availability. No fee, no ID required for emergency shelter. Workforce and housing programs have application processes; call to learn about eligibility.
617-892-9100 · 444 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02118