Statewide Homelessness Prevention Programs

Housing Consumer Education Centers

Housing Consumer Education Centers (HCEC) can answer a wide range of questions about all types of housing problems. Each of the nine member agencies of the statewide Massachusetts Nonprofit Housing Association acts as the Housing Consumer Education Center for its region. These agencies offer housing assistance, services, and information to low- and moderate-income residents of Massachusetts. Click here for more information.

Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT)

RAFT, is a state-funded homelessness prevention program. If you and your family are at risk of becoming homeless or are experiencing homelessness, RAFT may be able to help you avoid or exit homelessness. The program provides up to $3,000 to eligible families to help with such needs as first month’s rent, security deposits, and back utility bills.

The RAFT program is administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) through the network of regional nonprofit housing agencies' Housing Consumer Education Centers (HCECs).

For more information on RAFT and how to access these resources please click on the links below

• Summary of the RAFT program and benefits provided
• Department of Housing and Community Development's RAFT program guidelines
• RAFT income guidelines
• Who to contact for assistance

For more information or to get involved, call the Coalition at (781) 595-7570