Agencies

Offer support, shelter, counseling, and resources for survivors, children, and families affected by domestic violence. Located in Northampton.

SHINE is a state health insurance assistance program that provides free health insurance information, counseling and assistance to Massachusetts elders and individuals with disabilities in understanding their Medicare and MassHealth benefits and other health insurance options. SHINE counselors are available throughout the state at local Council on aging, senior centers, elder service agencies, hospitals and other community based agencies. Call 800-243-4636, then press 3 to contact your local SHINE Program Office

The Shelter Committee helps people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover and regain control of their future.

SSDI is based on your work history (having paid in to Social Security) and not on your income or asset level. Two years after being approved for SSDI you will receive Medicare, government funded health care for people who are elders or who have a disability

We prepare and assist eligible South Carolinians with disabilities to achieve and maintain competitive employment.

Assists individuals to define their employment objectives and help them with career exploration, training, education, counseling and job placement. Serves Greater Boston, Southeastern, North Shore, and Central Massachusetts

The Division of Rehabilitation Services (DHS) can help individuals with disabilities to obtain or maintain employment, economic self-sufficiency, personal independence and full inclusion into society.

The philosophy of independent living maintains that individuals with disabilities have the right to choose services and make decisions for themselves. ultimately individuals with disabilities have the right to live the life they choose.

Programs funded by the Social Security Administration to provide income to people who are unable to work due to a disability. Both programs have the same definition of disability: you must be totally unable to work for a year or more, or your condition must be expected to result in death. (Note: Children with a disability are also eligible for SSI, but instead of inability to work they are awarded benefits on their inability to do all the same social, educational, and developmental activities of other kids their age.) Keep in mind: Most people who apply for SSI/SSDI are turned down the first time. If you get denied initially, it is important to resubmit your application.

The Department of Rehabilitation Services provides a wide range of services to individuals with disabilities who need assistance in maintaining or achieving their full potential for self-direction, self-reliance and independent living. The primary customers of the agency are individuals with disabilities, and in our employment-based programs we also have business/employers as a dual customer.