Basic Needs Resources

 Please reach out to the FSAO office if the resource you are looking for is not listed here. FSAO will do its best to locate available resources. 

BU Resources 

Loans While Employed at BU https://www.bu.edu/hr/finances/supplemental-retirement-savings-plan/taking-loans-from-your-accounts/ 

Community Led Mutual Aid Food Pantry/Fridges  

https://www.facebook.com/abcommunityfridge/ 

https://boston.eater.com/maps/community-fridges-boston 

Community Support for Families with Children under 5 years 

Community based playgroups for families with children under 5 Boston Family Engagement Network 

MA Coordinated Family and Community Engagement Networks: search by town to see resources available.  

Emergency Housing Assistance 

The RAFT program (Rental Assistance for Families in Transition) provides emergency rental funds for eligible Massachusetts families.  See their website for eligibility guidelines. 

 ABCD Boston has housing search specialists to assist with locating rentals. Contact the neighborhood center closest to you to ask about this and other resources. 

Emergency shelter access information is found at the Mass.gov  

Food 

Search for Food Pantries near you at Greater Boston Food Bank 

Project Bread https://www.projectbread.org/get-help  or call 1-800-645-8333 

Sign up for WIC if you are pregnant and/or your child is under 5 years  

SNAP benefits at https://www.mass.gov/snap-benefits-formerly-food-stamps  

Utility Support 

Utility assistance: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/help-paying-your-utility-bill 

Home Heating Help: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-home-heating-and-energy-assistance 

National Grid Discount information: https://www.nationalgridus.com/MA-Home/Rates/Service-Rates 

Eversource Discount information:  https://www.eversource.com/content/ema-c/residential/account-billing/payment-assistance/discount-rate