What is the role of social services departments?

Social Services Departments in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is one of the 50 states in the country with the most developed, extensive social services programs. The Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS or HHS) is the governing body for most of the social service programs provided by the state.

In fact, the EOHHS is the largest administrative office in the Massachusetts state government, overseeing 12 different agencies, two soldiers’ homes, and the state public health program and insurance marketplace, MassHealth.

The EOHHS maintains that its services impact the lives of more than 1 in 4 residents of Massachusetts in some way. This is represented by the department’s mission statement:

HHS provides access to medical and behavioral health care, substance misuse treatment, long term services and support, and nutritional and financial benefits to those with low incomes. We connect elders, individuals with disabilities, and veterans with employment opportunities, housing, and supportive services. We steer troubled youth towards a more successful path and do everything possible to keep children in our child welfare system safe. We support individuals who are developmentally disabled, mentally ill, blind, deaf or hard of hearing.

What are the main social services programs offered by Massachusetts?

There are 12 agencies offering social services and social program to Massachusetts residents, along with a statewide public health program.

The main social services programs offered by Massachusetts include:

MassHealth - This program provides healthcare coverage for low-income individuals and families in Massachusetts.
Website: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/masshealth
Phone: (800) 841-2900

Elder Affairs - The Executive Office of Elder Affairs advocates and provides resources and programs towards the health, independence, and well-being of older people. 
Website: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-elder-affairs
Phone: (617) 727-7750

Transitional Assistance - The Department of Transitional Assistance offers social assistance to individuals and families so that they can meet their basic needs and help establish them for long term self-sufficiency.
Website: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-transitional-assistance
Phone: (877) 382-2363

Youth Services - This program’s efforts are towards creating positive outcomes for young people so that they can lead fulfilling and productive lives.
Website: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-youth-services
Phone: (617) 727-7575

Department of Mental Health - Residents of all ages can access programs from the DMH to get the mental health support they need to live and work.
Website: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-department-of-mental-health
Phone: (617) 626-8000
Info Line: (800) 221-0053
24/7 Support Line: (833) 773-2445

Veterans’ Services - This agency advocates on behalf of Massachusetts veterans to make sure they get the support and assistance they need and are entitled to.
Website: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-department-of-veterans-services
Phone: (617) 210-5480

Office for Refugees and Immigrants - The ORI offers social support services for refugees and immigrants to help with language learning, employment, and other needed education and support.
Phone: (617) 727-7888

Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission - This agency provides services focused on providing services for people with disabilities, including training and employment, community living, and disability determination for federal benefits.
Website: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-rehabilitation-commission
Phone: (617) 204-3600