December can be an exciting month—winter holidays and the end of the calendar year encourage us to reflect and find joy from the past year. However, this busy time can also bring stress. Saving money can be difficult when it seems like everyone is generously spending more than usual. However, it is possible to celebrate on a budget. There are a number of resources available across Massachusetts that may help you, your family, or your neighbors to relieve a bit of stress this season. Read on for both statewide and local resources you may find helpful.
Statewide
The Salvation Army has chapters across Massachusetts that can offer assistance if needed this holiday season. Registration is not yet open, but it should be soon. Find your local chapter by searching the map on the website. There, you will find details on what kind of assistance is offered near you and information on ow to apply.
Mass 2-1-1 is an online directory that can help you find information for many services. You can find resources for food, help paying your rent, heating, and utility bills, mental health counseling, health and safety services, child care referrals, job resources, and more. On the front page, you will see a box titled “Resources – Search Now.” Type in “holiday” to find specific resources in your area for the holiday season.
Eastern Massachusetts (Boston and surrounding areas)
Eliot Family Resource Center in Everett has multiple holiday events for families every year. Get connected on their website and look out for flyers or other messaging about their events.
My Brother’s Keeper has a Christmas assistance program that serves families all over eastern Massachusetts, including Boston and Cape Cod. The program does not serve Framingham or points west. According to their website, all requests are processed by phone. Call 508–238–2562 to make requests. Gifts can be delivered directly to doorsteps between December 1-24.
The Kennedy Center Community Resource Center in Charlestown provides seasonal gifts and hosts local events. For more information about how to request assistance, contact Crystal Galvin, the Director of Community Services, at 617-241-8866 ext. 1352, or at cgalvin@kennedycenter.org.
Citizens for Citizens Operation Christmas in the Fall River and Taunton areas distributes toys and clothing to families. You can apply for Operation Christmas at the Fall River Office on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Hurry in because applications are due by December 6. If you have questions, please contact either Fall River at (508) 675-2157 ext. 601 or Taunton at (508) 823-6346.
Cape Cod and Islands
Through the Cape Cod Council of Churches, the Cape Cod Times Neighbors Fund provides gift card assistance for families with infants and toddlers to cover the cost of holiday items, groceries, clothing, and infant needs. More information is available on the website to find out how to connect with this program.
Community Action Committee of Cape & Islands is open to families who live in Barnstable with children or teens. Toys, clothing, and gift cards are available depending on the child’s age. To register for their seasonal programs, call 508-771-1727 ext. 117.
Central Massachusetts
Catholic Charities of Worcester County offers special holiday meals for those who have transportation to their site or meal deliveries for those who cannot leave their homes during the holidays. They additionally offer assistance to families with children throughout the county. Contact the appropriate phone number for your area on their website.
Toys for Tots is a nationwide organization that provides toys for families with children who request them. The Worcester County chapter partners with many local organizations that can help you and your family make the holiday magical without the stress.
Western Massachusetts
413 Cares has gathered a list of multiple holiday resources for folks living in Western Massachusetts. This will be updated throughout the holiday season. Notably, assistance for Franklin County residents is available by calling 413-773-3154 and scheduling an appointment.
DTA Cares!
The holiday season can be both exciting and stressful. There are more community resources beyond this list, and reaching out to DTA can always be a helpful place to start. The SNAP Outreach Partners may be able to direct you, your friends, and your family to find the help and guidance you need this time of year.
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