PUBLIC HEALTH information
SNAP: Due to federal action, extra pandemic SNAP benefits are ending on March 2. This means that households in Massachusetts will start getting less SNAP starting in April. (Note: the monthly HIP amount will remain the same for all households.) The state has launched a website: Mass.gov/ ExtraCOVIDSNAP to help residents plan for the end of the temporary federal COVID-related SNAP benefits. DTA is also contacting clients via text message, mailed notices, website banners and DTA Connect app alerts. These messages direct clients to other resources, like HIP, that can help expand their food budget during this difficult time.
(The state has also proposed to provide a portion of these extra SNAP benefits for a certain period of time to lessen the impact of the abrupt end to the federal temporary program on MA families. This plan still needs to be approved by the state legislature. DTA will provide more information when available.)
DIAL 211: MA VACCINATION HOTLINE FOR SENIORS 75+
VACCINATION INFO HOTLINE: 413-449-5575
Resources for Cancer Patients
Resources for coping with Substance Addiction & PTSD:
- Treatment Options for PTSD and Addiction [americanaddictioncenters.org]: Information on the signs of PTSD, substance abuse and its connection to PTSD, and how to get help.
- Veterans’ Mental Health Issues [veteranaddiction.org]: Addresses a range of veteran health concerns such as depression, PTSD, anxiety, and substance abuse.
- Veteran Drug & Alcohol Rehab [americanaddictioncenters.org]: Additional support for veterans.
- Free virtual support and online addiction meetings [americanaddictioncenters.org]: Supports veterans in their recovery.
TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTERING (OR RE-ENTERING) MASSACHUSETTS
855-262-5465 between the hours of 7am and 7pm, 7 days/week. and/or the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) 24/7 Epidemiology line at (617) 983-6800.
RESOURCES FOR ADDRESSING CAREGIVER,
NURSING HOME ABUSE & DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Elizabeth Freeman Center: Domestic and Sexual Violence Response 866.401.2425
Report Child Abuse or Neglect to Mass DCF
Call 211 to reach the state call center for health information. Free & Multilingual.
Berkshire Medical Center toll-free hotline for questions/concerns: 855-BMC-LINK – or – 855-262-5465 (7 days/week, 7AM – 7PM)
Buoy Health Care Tool
Buoy Health’s online 24/7 tool is free for Massachusetts residents and uses current COVID-19 guidance from the CDC and Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Visit buoy.com/mass to learn more and use the tool.
Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH) is checking Voicemail and SignMail messages left on our main numbers: Voice (617) 740-1600 and Video Phone: (617) 326-7546, and will respond within one business day.
For interpreter/CART requests are being processed online, visit https://www.mcdhh.net/request/ to submit your request.
Text Alerts – Text “COVIDMA” to 888-777 to receive COVID-19 text message alerts straight to your phone and stay up to date with the latest news + updates from the Commonwealth.
Massachusetts Department of Public Health: 617-983-6800 (24-hour emergency hotline)
GENERAL RESOURCES TO SUPPORT VETERANS
MA Dept. of Public Health Resource for Veterans and Information about Their Rights
Affordable Mental Health Options for Veterans and their Families
Military and Veterans Mental Health Issues
Counseling, Crisis Help, & Suicide Prevention for the Military Community