Housing, Health, Hunger & Help: Healthcare
Information on shelters, food, medical and legal assistance for the homeless and housing insecure in the Greater Boston area.
Testing
Credit: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
All community health centers and hospitals in Boston offer STI testing. To find a clinic in your neighborhood, click on the image above to visit the CDC's Get Tested Website or call the Mayor's Health Line at 617.534.5050 (Toll-Free: 800.847.0710)
Health Insurance
Questions about navigating the health care system? Health Care For All offers a HelpLine at 1-800-272-4232. This resource is free and available to all who call with questions about health coverage in Massachusetts.
Credit: Boston Public Health Commission
MA Health Navigators are trained and certified staff from the Health Connector and MassHealth. Navigators can assist the public with health insurance applications, the enrollment process, navigating health options, and answer any questions you may have.
Phone: 617.534.5050
E-mail: mayorshealthline@bphc.org
**Please provide your name, phone number, best day(s) to reach you, best time(s) to reach you.
Massachusetts Medicaid (MassHealth) pays for health care for certain low and medium income people living in Massachusetts. MassHealth offers health-care benefits directly or by paying part or all of your health-insurance premiums. To apply for MassHealth, click here or call MassHealth Customer Service at 1-800-841-2900.
HelpSteps
A partnership between the Boston Public Health Commission and Boston Children's Hospital, HelpSteps is a free and confidential tool to help patrons locate health and human services throughout Massachusetts based on customized, personal needs and access. Over 11,000 listings and available in over 100 languages.
Related Research Guides
Mayor's Health Line
617.534.5050 / Toll-Free: (800) 847.0710
Staff at the Mayor's Health Line (MHL) help residents of Boston gain access to health and wellness resources and services including, questions about health insurance enrollment and eligibility, finding primary care physicians, locating social services, free clinics, child care services, community health centers, and much more.
MHL is free, confidential, multilingual information and referral service. All residents welcomed regardless of immigration status.
Operating hours are: Monday - Friday, 9 am - 5 pm
1010 Mass Ave Boston, MA 02118 2nd Floor
Healthcare in Boston
The following lists outline health resources in and around the city of Boston, Massachusetts. These resources have been compiled by librarians and library staff at the Boston Public Library from community partners and online sources. Links are verified and fact-checked on a semi-annual basis. However, they may change at any time. Please contact the organizations you are interested in directly to verify that they are the right fit for you or your loved one.
The tabbed box includes more detailed information about resources pertaining to behavioral health, dental services, eye care, family services, HIV care, LGBTQ+ services, medical respite care, pharmacy, primary care, sexual health, and substance use disorder services.
**The City of Boston and the Massachusetts Bureau of Substance Abuse Services offer a wide array of resources pertaining to prevention, treatment, and recovery support services. This page outlines some of those services, but for a more complete listing of substance use and recovery services, visit the Boston Public Library's Addiction Recovery Resources Guide.**
Local Health Organizations
- Boston Health Care for the Homeless (BHCHP)
BHCHP meets people where they are: on the streets, in its shelter-based clinics, hospitals, and housing to provide regular, consistent care. Services include: adult primary care, behaviorial health, family services, oral health and specialized services. - Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC)
BPHC is committed to public health and equitable access to quality health care for all residents of Boston, particularly those who are most vulnerable. The Commission is divided into more than 40 programs that are grouped into six bureaus: Child, Adolescent & Family Health; Community Health Initiatives; Homeless Services; Infectious Disease; Recovery Services; and Emergency Medical Services. - Community Health Center Finder
Enter your address, preferred distance, and type of health care service or center you are seeking. This resource is offered by the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers. - Massachusetts Department of Public Health
Organizations and areas of health care services include: Office of Health Equity, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services, Bureau of Community Health & Prevention, and many more. - Health Care Without Walls
Offers free, walk-in health care to nearly 2,500 homeless women and their children in eight shelters, safe houses, and transitional family housing sites throughout the Greater Boston Area.Provides gender-specific health care and care coordination to homeless and marginally-housed women and families. Women’s shelter locations include Rosie’s Place and Women’s Lunch Place. Family shelter locations include the three facilities and safe houses of Casa Myrna, which house victims of domestic abuse; Mary’s House in Waltham, operated by the Middlesex Human Service Agency, and our newest family shelter clinic in Framingham.
Health Services
What is behavioral health?
Behavioral health is a discipline that includes mental health services like psychiatric care, marriage and family counseling, and treatment for addictions. Services are provided by mental health professionals including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, neurologists, counselors, and physicians. Disorders treated include anxiety disorder, mood disorders, impulse-control disorders, and substance abuse disorders.[1]
Approximately one in five adults in the United States will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime; virtually everyone is affected by mental illness through family and friends.[2] The resources listed below offer free and low-cost behavioral healthcare in and around Boston.
If you are in crisis, and need immediate support or intervention, call, or go the website of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Trained crisis workers are available to talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your confidential and toll-free call goes to the nearest crisis center in the Lifeline national network. These centers provide crisis counseling and mental health referrals. If the situation is potentially life-threatening, call 911 or go to a hospital emergency room.
[1] Rhonda Cloos, "Behavioral Health," Gale Encyclopedia of Public Health, edited by Gale. Gale, 2013.
[2] Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, “May is Mental Health Month 2017,” Mass.gov, 2017.
Online Resources
- Massachusetts Clubhouse CoalitionThe Massachusetts Clubhouse Coalition (MCC) is a non-profit organization committed to helping people with long term mental illness find and secure employment, housing, education, services and support in the community. MCC membership includes over 15,000 Massachusetts residents who have mental illness and the 20+ quality accredited recovery and rehabilitation centers called "clubhouses" that help to sustain them.
- NAMI MassachusettsNAMI Mass. is a state resource for individuals and families facing the challenges of mental illness, providing free mental health family-based education, family and peer support and grassroots advocacy. Note that the "Local NAMIs" tab offers a list of local affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) Behavioral Health Treatment Services LocatorThe Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator is a confidential and anonymous source of information for persons seeking treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. Territories for substance abuse/addiction and/or mental health problems. You can also call SAMHSA’s National Helpline:
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
1-800-487-4889 (TDD) - BPHC Trauma Response Resource DirectoryThe Trauma Response Resource Directory provides a single, regularly updated source of information for residents and advocates seeking violence and trauma-related services. The Boston Public Health Commission published this directory with the belief that improving access to services for victims of violence and trauma will improve their quality of life and also decrease the potential for violence for the individuals, families and communities of Boston. The document also includes resources outside of Boston.
Find Care in Boston
- Boston Area Rape Crisis CenterBARCC offers free, confidential support services to survivors of sexual violence ages 12 and older, their friends and families, and professionals. They work with survivors regardless of when the violence occurred, and their goal is to empower survivors to heal. BARCC welcomes survivors of all genders, including men and transgender people; races; religions; incomes; languages; abilities; ethnicities; and sexual orientations. BARCC serves survivors regardless of immigration status.
24-hour hotline: 800-841-8371 - Cambridge Health AllianceHealth services include: adult medicine, behavioral health and substance abuse services, cancer care, clinical pharmacy, dermatology, domestic violence counseling and support, dental care, emergency care, eye care, family services, geriatric care, Hepatitis C treatment, HIV services, nutrition, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatric and adolescent health, podiatry, and women's health services. Multicultural Affairs and Patient Services regularly provides interpreter services in more than sixty languages to all CHA sites. Interpreter services also handle requests for the deaf or hard of hearing, including American Sign Language and CDI services.
- Casa EsperanzaCasa Esperanza is a bilingual/bicultural behavioral health facility that specializes in serving the Latino community in Massachusetts. Patients must be part of CasaCare to receive services. HIV testing available.
617-445-1123 - Fenway HealthOffers health care to adults in the LGBTQIA community, including youth. Health Services include behavioral health, dental services, eye care, family services, HIV care, LGBTQIA services, obstetrics and gynecology, pharmacy, primary care, sexual health, transgender health, and substance abuse disorder services, among others. See also: Fenway: South End and the Sidney Borum Jr. Health Center.
617-267-0900 - Jean Yawkey PlaceUnder the umbrella of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), Jean Yawkey Place provides health care for homeless men and women. Located on the campus of Boston Medical Center, Jean Yawkey Place includes a dental clinic, a behavioral health team, a pharmacy, the Barbara McInnis House (a medical and recuperative services center with 102 beds), and a 14-room primary care clinic which includes an HIV Team, a Transgender Clinic, a Suboxone Clinic, and the Women's Health Initiative.
857-654-1600 - Kingston HouseThe Kingston House clinic offers substance use disorders services, behavioral health, and primary care. This clinic is only available to Kingston House guests in a program, including the Stay In Bed Progam (SIBP) and guests who come for meals between 3 pm and 5 pm.
617-338-9000 - Lindemann Mental Health CenterThe Lindemann Mental Health Center offers substance use disorders services, behavioral health, and primary care.
617-626-8500 - New England Center and Home for Homeless VeteransNECHV provides services to any Veteran of the United States military regardless of branch, length of service, or other circumstance. The Center is available to serve any Veteran, 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. Emergency shelter is available on a temporary basis. Health services include substance use disorders services, behavioral health, HIV care, and primary care.
617-371-1800 - South Cove Community Health CenterSouth Cove provides medical and behavioral health services and youth and family programs for approximately 32,000 clients at four locations in the greater Boston area. Their mission is to improve the health and well being of all medically underserved in Massachusetts, with a special focus on Asian Americans. Health services include: behavioral health, dental care, eye care, family services, health education, obstetrics/gynecology, pediatric care, and more.
617-482-7555 - TransitionsThe goal of Transitions to offer a safe and therapeutic environment that support clients in their recovery. Transitions focuses on relapse prevention, behavior modification, interpersonal skill development, and re-socialization skills. Health services include substance use disorders services, behavioral health, HIV care, and primary care.
617-534-9150 - Whittier Street Health CenterHealth services include: adult medicine, behavioral health and substance abuse services, cancer care, clinical pharmacy, dermatology, domestic violence counseling and support, dental care, eye care, family services, geriatric care, Hepatitis C treatment, HIV services, LGBTQ services, men's health, nutrition, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatric and adolescent health, podiatry, urgent care, and women's health services. Services offered in English, Spanish, Swahili, Arabic, Bosnian, Krio, Portuguese, Yoruba, Russian, Farsi, Somali, Urdu, Haitian Creole
617-427-1000
Online Resources
- Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)Millions of children and teens qualify for free or low-cost health and dental coverage through Medicaid & the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
- Give Kids A SmileIf you need dental care for your child, the ADA Foundation's Give Kids A Smile program may be able to help. You can call their toll-free number to find out whether there is a GKAS program in your area: 1-844-490-GKAS. Through GKAS, children who may not have access to dental health services can receive free dental health education, screenings, preventive care, and/or dental treatment from volunteer dentists and dental team members.
Find Care in Boston
- Cambridge Health AllianceHealth services include: adult medicine, behavioral health and substance abuse services, cancer care, clinical pharmacy, dermatology, domestic violence counseling and support, dental care, emergency care, eye care, family services, geriatric care, Hepatitis C treatment, HIV services, nutrition, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatric and adolescent health, podiatry, and women's health services. Multicultural Affairs and Patient Services regularly provides interpreter services in more than sixty languages to all CHA sites. Interpreter services also handle requests for the deaf or hard of hearing, including American Sign Language and CDI services.
617-665-1305 - Codman Square Health CenterProvides urgent dental care and all aspects of general dentistry. Eye Care department is staffed by four Optometrists, including a Pediatric specialist and a consultant Ophthalmologist.
- DotHouse Health Eye & Dental CareOffers an array of general dentistry services, comprehensive primary eye care, secondary care consultation and optical services in a clean and modern facility.
- Fenway HealthOffers health care to adults in the LGBTQIA community, including youth. Health Services include behavioral health, dental services, eye care, family services, HIV care, LGBTQIA services, obstetrics and gynecology, pharmacy, primary care, sexual health, transgender health, and substance abuse disorder services, among others. See also: Fenway: South End and the Sidney Borum Jr. Health Center.
617-267-0900 - Jean Yawkey PlaceUnder the umbrella of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), Jean Yawkey Place provides health care for homeless men and women. Located on the campus of Boston Medical Center, Jean Yawkey Place includes a dental clinic, a behavioral health team, a pharmacy, the Barbara McInnis House (a medical and recuperative services center with 102 beds), and a 14-room primary care clinic which includes an HIV Team, a Transgender Clinic, a Suboxone Clinic, and the Women's Health Initiative.
857-654-1600 - South Boston Community Health CenterEye Care Department delivers care to children and adults of all ages. Pediatric and adult dental care departments offer a wide range of services ranging from basic and preventive dental work, including cleanings, sealants and fillings, to dentures, root canals and crowns/bridges
- South Cove Community Health CenterSouth Cove provides medical and behavioral health services and youth and family programs for approximately 32,000 clients at four locations in the greater Boston area. Their mission is to improve the health and well being of all medically underserved in Massachusetts, with a special focus on Asian Americans. Health services include: behavioral health, dental care, eye care, family services, health education, obstetrics/gynecology, pediatric care, and more.
617-482-7555 - Uphams Corner Health CenterDental care and education plus comprehensive primary eye care, secondary care consultation and optical services.
- Whittier Street Health CenterHealth services include: adult medicine, behavioral health and substance abuse services, cancer care, clinical pharmacy, dermatology, domestic violence counseling and support, dental care, eye care, family services, geriatric care, Hepatitis C treatment, HIV services, LGBTQ services, men's health, nutrition, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatric and adolescent health, podiatry, urgent care, and women's health services. Services offered in English, Spanish, Swahili, Arabic, Bosnian, Krio, Portuguese, Yoruba, Russian, Farsi, Somali, Urdu, Haitian Creole
617-427-1000
Find Care in Boston
- Boston Area Rape Crisis CenterBARCC offers free, confidential support services to survivors of sexual violence ages 12 and older, their friends and families, and professionals. They work with survivors regardless of when the violence occurred, and their goal is to empower survivors to heal. BARCC welcomes survivors of all genders, including men and transgender people; races; religions; incomes; languages; abilities; ethnicities; and sexual orientations. BARCC serves survivors regardless of immigration status.
24-hour hotline: 800-841-8371 - Boston HealthNet Community Health CentersAffiliated with Boston Medical Center, including 14 Community Health Centers that provide outreach, prevention, primary care and specialty care and dental services at sites located throughout Boston's neighborhoods.
- Cambridge Health AllianceHealth services include: adult medicine, behavioral health and substance abuse services, cancer care, clinical pharmacy, dermatology, domestic violence counseling and support, dental care, emergency care, eye care, family services, geriatric care, Hepatitis C treatment, HIV services, nutrition, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatric and adolescent health, podiatry, and women's health services. Multicultural Affairs and Patient Services regularly provides interpreter services in more than sixty languages to all CHA sites. Interpreter services also handle requests for the deaf or hard of hearing, including American Sign Language and CDI services.
617-665-1305 - Fenway HealthOffers health care to adults in the LGBTQIA community, including youth. Health Services include behavioral health, dental services, eye care, family services, HIV care, LGBTQIA services, obstetrics and gynecology, pharmacy, primary care, sexual health, transgender health, and substance abuse disorder services, among others. See also: Fenway: South End and the Sidney Borum Jr. Health Center.
617-267-0900 - Jean Yawkey PlaceUnder the umbrella of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), Jean Yawkey Place provides health care for homeless men and women. Located on the campus of Boston Medical Center, Jean Yawkey Place includes a dental clinic, a behavioral health team, a pharmacy, the Barbara McInnis House (a medical and recuperative services center with 102 beds), and a 14-room primary care clinic which includes an HIV Team, a Transgender Clinic, a Suboxone Clinic, and the Women's Health Initiative.
857-654-1600 - Partners Healthcare Community Health CentersTwenty Community health centers operated by Partners hospitals, or affiliated with Partners hospitals, including: Mattapan Community Health Center, East Boston Community Health Center, and Codman Square Health Center.
- Whittier Street Health CenterHealth services include: adult medicine, behavioral health and substance abuse services, cancer care, clinical pharmacy, dermatology, domestic violence counseling and support, dental care, eye care, family services, geriatric care, Hepatitis C treatment, HIV services, LGBTQ services, men's health, nutrition, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatric and adolescent health, podiatry, urgent care, and women's health services. Services offered in English, Spanish, Swahili, Arabic, Bosnian, Krio, Portuguese, Yoruba, Russian, Farsi, Somali, Urdu, Haitian Creole
617-427-1000
Online Resources
- Greater Than AIDSGreater Than AIDS is a public information campaign offering HIV/AIDS information, advice, and support, emphasizing hope, unity and personal empowerment.
Find Care in Boston
- AIDS Action CommitteeAIDS Action Committee (AAC) of Massachusetts is a not-for-profit, community-based health organization offering the following services and programs: behavioral health counseling, client advocacy and case management, community outreach and education, HIV and STD testing and counseling, housing and residential programs, legal services, needle exchange, nutritional services, peer support, rental and utility assistance, transgender programs, and youth services.
617-437-6200 - Boston HIV Adolescent Provider and Peer Education Network for Services (HAPPENS)Located in Boston Children's Hospital, Boston HAPPENS provides services to youth, 13-24 years old, who are HIV positive or at risk for the disease and other STDs.
617-355-2735 - Boston Living CenterVictory Programs’ Boston Living Center (BLC) is a nonprofit community and resource center that offers education, treatment information and support services. Members must provide proof of HIV Status with verification letters signed by a doctor or nurse on a hospital/clinic letterhead, income verification, and a photo ID. Health services include meals and nutrition programs, haircuts, and holistic care.
617-236-1012
TTY 617-267-7059 - Cambridge Health AllianceHealth services include: adult medicine, behavioral health and substance abuse services, cancer care, clinical pharmacy, dermatology, domestic violence counseling and support, dental care, emergency care, eye care, family services, geriatric care, Hepatitis C treatment, HIV services, nutrition, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatric and adolescent health, podiatry, and women's health services. Multicultural Affairs and Patient Services regularly provides interpreter services in more than sixty languages to all CHA sites. Interpreter services also handle requests for the deaf or hard of hearing, including American Sign Language and CDI services.
617-665-1305 - Casa EsperanzaCasa Esperanza is a bilingual/bicultural behavioral health facility that specializes in serving the Latino community in Massachusetts. Patients must be part of CasaCare to receive services. HIV testing available.
617-445-1123 - Fenway HealthOffers health care to adults in the LGBTQIA community, including youth. Health Services include behavioral health, dental services, eye care, family services, HIV care, LGBTQIA services, obstetrics and gynecology, pharmacy, primary care, sexual health, transgender health, and substance abuse disorder services, among others. See also: Fenway: South End and the Sidney Borum Jr. Health Center.
617-267-0900 - Jean Yawkey PlaceUnder the umbrella of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), Jean Yawkey Place provides health care for homeless men and women. Located on the campus of Boston Medical Center, Jean Yawkey Place includes a dental clinic, a behavioral health team, a pharmacy, the Barbara McInnis House (a medical and recuperative services center with 102 beds), and a 14-room primary care clinic which includes an HIV Team, a Transgender Clinic, a Suboxone Clinic, and the Women's Health Initiative.
857-654-1600 - Massachusetts General HospitalBoston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP) at MGH provides access to care for homeless men, women, and children in metropolitan Boston, Charlestown, Chelsea, and Revere. Multidisciplinary teams at BHCHP deliver direct care services in more than 78 sites, including a site located within MGH.
617-726-2707 - New England Center and Home for Homeless VeteransNECHV provides services to any Veteran of the United States military regardless of branch, length of service, or other circumstance. The Center is available to serve any Veteran, 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. Emergency shelter is available on a temporary basis. Health services include substance use disorders services, behavioral health, HIV care, and primary care.
617-371-1800 - Project SOARProject SOAR, which stands for Stability, Opportunity, Achievement, and Recovery, has 20 beds for homeless adults. Eligibility: homeless; 18 years or older; employed, receiving benefits, or enrolled in or awaiting enrollment in an educational or job training program; have a desire to transition into permanent housing; willing to participate and contribute to community living; show commitment to ongoing personal recovery; minimum of 30 days of sobriety
617-534-6101 - Safe HarborThe Safe Harbor Program serves 20 homeless adults who are HIV positive and recovering from substance abuse. This program also provides meals to clients.
Eligibility: homeless; HIV positive with physician documentation; 18 years of age or older; able to perform activities of daily living independently; willing to address substance abuse; willing to participate in and contribute to educational/support groups.
617-534-6128 - TransitionsThe goal of Transitions to offer a safe and therapeutic environment that support clients in their recovery. Transitions focuses on relapse prevention, behavior modification, interpersonal skill development, and re-socialization skills. Health services include substance use disorders services, behavioral health, HIV care, and primary care.
617-534-9150 - Victory ProgramsVictory Programs is a Boston-based nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals and families who are homeless and may have substance use disorders, often accompanied by chronic health issues like HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, and mental illness.
- Whittier Street Health CenterHealth services include: adult medicine, behavioral health and substance abuse services, cancer care, clinical pharmacy, dermatology, domestic violence counseling and support, dental care, eye care, family services, geriatric care, Hepatitis C treatment, HIV services, LGBTQ services, men's health, nutrition, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatric and adolescent health, podiatry, urgent care, and women's health services. Services offered in English, Spanish, Swahili, Arabic, Bosnian, Krio, Portuguese, Yoruba, Russian, Farsi, Somali, Urdu, Haitian Creole
617-427-1000
Intro to LGBT Health
"The LGBT community is diverse. While L, G, B, and T are usually tied together as an acronym that suggests homogeneity, each letter represents a wide range of people of different races, ethnicities, ages, socioeconomic statuses and identities. What binds them together as social and gender minorities are common experiences of stigma and discrimination, the struggle of living at the intersection of many cultural backgrounds and trying to be a part of each, and, specifically with respect to health care, a long history of discrimination and lack of awareness of health needs by health professionals. As a result, LGBT people face a common set of challenges in accessing culturally competent health services and achieving the highest possible level of health."
-from the National LGBT Health Education Center
Online Resources
- GLMA Provider DirectoryAre you lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender and looking for a healthcare professional you can trust? GLMA’s online Provider Directory can help. Search for primary care providers, specialists, therapists, dentists and other health professionals in your area.
- LGBT National Help CenterThe Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) National Help Center provides peer-support, community connections and resource information to people with questions regarding sexual orientation and/or gender identity. They operate volunteer one-to-one online chat, helping youth and adults with coming-out issues, safer-sex information, school bullying, family concerns, relationship problems and a lot more. They also operate the following hotlines:
LGBT National Hotline 1-888-843-4564 | Youth Talkline 1-800-246-7743 | SAGE LGBT Elder Hotline 1-888-234-7243 - The National LGBT Health Education CenterThe National LGBT Health Education Center provides educational programs, resources, and consultation to health care organizations with the goal of optimizing quality, cost-effective health care for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people. The Education Center is a part of The Fenway Institute, the research, training, and health policy division of Fenway Health, a Federally Qualified Health Center, and one of the world’s largest LGBT-focused health centers.
Find Care in Boston
- AIDS Action CommitteeAIDS Action Committee (AAC) of Massachusetts is a not-for-profit, community-based health organization offering the following services and programs: behavioral health counseling, client advocacy and case management, community outreach and education, HIV and STD testing and counseling, housing and residential programs, legal services, needle exchange, nutritional services, peer support, rental and utility assistance, transgender programs, and youth services.
617-437-6200 - Boston Area Rape Crisis CenterBARCC offers free, confidential support services to survivors of sexual violence ages 12 and older, their friends and families, and professionals. They work with survivors regardless of when the violence occurred, and their goal is to empower survivors to heal. BARCC welcomes survivors of all genders, including men and transgender people; races; religions; incomes; languages; abilities; ethnicities; and sexual orientations. BARCC serves survivors regardless of immigration status.
24-hour hotline: 800-841-8371 - Fenway HealthOffers health care to adults in the LGBTQIA community, including youth. Health Services include behavioral health, dental services, eye care, family services, HIV care, LGBTQIA services, obstetrics and gynecology, pharmacy, primary care, sexual health, transgender health, and substance abuse disorder services, among others. See also: Fenway: South End and the Sidney Borum Jr. Health Center.
617-267-0900 - Jean Yawkey PlaceUnder the umbrella of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), Jean Yawkey Place provides health care for homeless men and women. Located on the campus of Boston Medical Center, Jean Yawkey Place includes a dental clinic, a behavioral health team, a pharmacy, the Barbara McInnis House (a medical and recuperative services center with 102 beds), and a 14-room primary care clinic which includes an HIV Team, a Transgender Clinic, a Suboxone Clinic, and the Women's Health Initiative.
857-654-1600 - The Meeting PointThe Meeting Point is a collective of mental health practitioners committed to meeting the needs of underserved populations, including GLBTQ identified individuals, youth, and families, people who have experienced trauma, and those with physical and/or emotional disabilities.
1-877-207-8479 - Sidney Borum Jr Health CenterThe Borum offers healthcare to LGBTQ youth ages 12-29. Health services include behavioral health, HIV care, LGBTGIA services, primary care, sexual health, substance abuse disorder services, transgender care, as well as other services.
617-457-8140 - Whittier Street Health CenterHealth services include: adult medicine, behavioral health and substance abuse services, cancer care, clinical pharmacy, dermatology, domestic violence counseling and support, dental care, eye care, family services, geriatric care, Hepatitis C treatment, HIV services, LGBTQ services, men's health, nutrition, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatric and adolescent health, podiatry, urgent care, and women's health services. Services offered in English, Spanish, Swahili, Arabic, Bosnian, Krio, Portuguese, Yoruba, Russian, Farsi, Somali, Urdu, Haitian Creole
617-427-1000
What is medical respite care?
Medical respite care refers to short-term medical and recuperative services for homeless people who are too sick for life in shelters or on the streets, but who are not sick enough to occupy a costly hospital bed (Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, 2014).
Find Care in Boston
- Barbara McInnis HouseBoston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP) provides "medical respite care," short-term medical and recuperative services, for homeless people who are far too sick for life in shelters but not sick enough to occupy a costly acute care hospital bed. The Barbara McInnis House is BHCHP's 104-bed medical respite facility located in Jean Yawkey Place on the campus of Boston Medical Center.
857-654-1760 or 857-654-1840 - Stacy Kirkpatrick HouseThe Stacy Kirkpatrick House is a step-down respite facility, welcoming patients previously recovering from surgeries, long-term treatments, and other ailments at the Barbara McInnis House. The Stacy Kirkpatrick House offers 20 medical respite beds and is run by Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Program nurses and operations staff. BHCHP’s step down model allows for medically frail patients to transition from round-the-clock care at the Barbara McInnis House to low-risk care at the Stacy Kirkpatrick House to long term housing facilitated by our case managers on staff.
857-654-1550
What is sexual health?
The World Health Organization defines sexual health as a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.
Online Resources
- BPHC Sexual HealthThe Boston Public Health Commission's Infectious Disease bureau works closely with local youth and community-based organizations to raise awareness about preventing and treating STIs, infections that spread from one person to another through sexual contact. Use the resources on this site to learn more about protecting yourself against STIs and where to find confidential testing.
- Greater Than AIDSGreater Than AIDS is a public information campaign offering HIV/AIDS information, advice, and support, emphasizing hope, unity and personal empowerment.
- HIV/AIDS & STDs (CDC)The U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) offers information about sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS, including resources about prevention, testing, treatment, and care, in both English and Spanish.
- It's Your (Sex) LifeIt's Your (Sex) Life is MTV's public information campaign to support young people in making responsible decisions about their sexual health. IYSL offers a number of resources with a focus on reducing unintended pregnancy, preventing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV/AIDS, and open communication with partners and healthcare providers.
- Your Health BostonYour Health Boston offers info about locations and schedules for testing and counseling, as well as information on how HIV & STDs are transmitted and how to stay safe. YHB also lists up-to-date information on support groups, social and educational events, and research studies.
Find Care in Boston
- ABCD Health Services DepartmentOffers reproductive and sexual health as well as wellness education programs to reach youth and adults in their community who may not use—or trust—conventional sources of care and information
- AIDS Action CommitteeAIDS Action Committee (AAC) of Massachusetts is a not-for-profit, community-based health organization offering the following services and programs: behavioral health counseling, client advocacy and case management, community outreach and education, HIV and STD testing and counseling, housing and residential programs, legal services, needle exchange, nutritional services, peer support, rental and utility assistance, transgender programs, and youth services.
617-437-6200 - Boston Area Rape Crisis CenterBARCC offers free, confidential support services to survivors of sexual violence ages 12 and older, their friends and families, and professionals. They work with survivors regardless of when the violence occurred, and their goal is to empower survivors to heal. BARCC welcomes survivors of all genders, including men and transgender people; races; religions; incomes; languages; abilities; ethnicities; and sexual orientations. BARCC serves survivors regardless of immigration status.
24-hour hotline: 800-841-8371 - Boston HIV Adolescent Provider and Peer Education Network for Services (HAPPENS)Located in Boston Children's Hospital, Boston HAPPENS provides services to youth, 13-24 years old, who are HIV positive or at risk for the disease and other STDs.
617-355-2735 - Boston STD ClinicWalk-ins available on a first-come, first-served basis. Appointments strongly encouraged
To make an appointment call 617.414.2803
Please check website for clinic and walk-in hours.
Address: 725 Albany St, Suite 9C, Boston, MA 02118
Testing Offered: HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis and Hepatitis C. - Cambridge Health AllianceHealth services include: adult medicine, behavioral health and substance abuse services, cancer care, clinical pharmacy, dermatology, domestic violence counseling and support, dental care, emergency care, eye care, family services, geriatric care, Hepatitis C treatment, HIV services, nutrition, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatric and adolescent health, podiatry, and women's health services. Multicultural Affairs and Patient Services regularly provides interpreter services in more than sixty languages to all CHA sites. Interpreter services also handle requests for the deaf or hard of hearing, including American Sign Language and CDI services.
617-665-1305 - East Boston Neighborhood Health Center (Project SHINE)Address: 79 Paris Street, 1st Floor, Boston, MA 02128
Phone: 617-568-4490
Hours: Testing available by appointment or walk-in Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm; Evening walk-in screening services are available at the EBNHC Emergency Department, located on the first floor at 10 Gove Street, Monday through Friday 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm and Saturday 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Testing: HIV antigen/antibody testing, as well as gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis C, and syphilis
*Results are available within a few days of testing - Fenway HealthOffers health care to adults in the LGBTQIA community, including youth. Health Services include behavioral health, dental services, eye care, family services, HIV care, LGBTQIA services, obstetrics and gynecology, pharmacy, primary care, sexual health, transgender health, and substance abuse disorder services, among others. See also: Fenway: South End and the Sidney Borum Jr. Health Center.
617-267-0900 - Planned Parenthood - Greater Boston Health CenterPlanned Parenthood is a healthcare provider, educator, and advocate offering sexual and reproductive health care, sex education, and information to women, men, and young people. Medical services offered include abortion services, birth control, HIV and STD testing, treatment, and vaccines, LGBT services, men's health, morning after pill, pregnancy testing and care, and women's health care.
800-258-4448 - Project ProtectionProject Protection is located at Martha Eliot Health Center and serves any person aged 13 years and older. All STD/HIV testing and counseling services are free, confidential, and do not require identification documents. Clients do not need to be patients at Martha Eliot Health Center. Project Protection serves a diverse community of all ages. MEHC staff speaks English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole. An interpreter is also available for other languages.
617-355-7701 - Project TrustProject TRUST (Teaching, Referral, Understanding, Support, and Testing), is part of Boston Medical Center and provides multilingual and confidential screening for HIV, screening for clients with asymptomatic STDs (Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis), and screening for Hepatitis C. The staff provides educational information about HIV and refers clients to any additional services as needed, such as counseling, drug treatment, and health care.
617-414-4495
What is substance use disorder?
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| What is 311? |
Substance use disorder, also known as drug addiction, is a dependence on a legal or illegal drug or medication. People suffering from addiction are unable to control their drug use and may continue using the drug despite the harm it causes. Addiction can cause serious, long-term consequences, including problems with physical and mental health, relationships, employment, and the law (Mayo Clinic, 2004). If you or a loved one are suffering from substance use disorder, you may find help from your doctor, family, friends, support groups, or an organized treatment program. This page offers resources both online and in the Greater Boston area.
For more information on substance use and recovery services, visit the BPL's Addiction Recovery Resources Guide.
If you are experiencing a potentially life-threatening situation, please call 911 or go to a hospital emergency room.
Online Resources
- Addiction-aryWords matter, especially when they describe heavily stigmatized disorders such as substance abuse. The Addiction-ary is published by the Recovery Research Institute, a non-profit research institute of Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School.
- Massachusetts Substance Use Information and Education HelplineThe Massachusetts Department of Public Health offers a substance abuse program directory that allows individuals to search for licensed treatment programs by geographic location, type of treatment, population served, and other search parameters. You can also call their helpline directly at 1-800-327-5050.
- SMART Recovery Meeting FinderThis online support group and 12-step meeting locator can help you find recovery groups and SMART Recovery meetings in your area.This directory includes AA, NA, SA, SLA, OA, CA, SMART Recovery and other addiction recovery groups.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) Behavioral Health Treatment Services LocatorThe Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator is a confidential and anonymous source of information for people seeking treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. Territories for substance abuse/addiction and/or mental health problems. You can also call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or 1-800-487-4889 (TDD).
Find Care in Shelters
- Pilgrim ShelterAffiliated with the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), Pilgrim Shelter offers beds, primary care, and behavioral health to homeless men.
617-825-3300 - Pine Street Inn at ShattuckGuests receive two hot meals, showers, clothing, a clean bed, and support from counselors and nursing staff. Shattuck Shelter also provides assistance for men and women who are struggling with addiction, legal, financial, mental health and physical issues. Health services include behavioral health, HIV care, primary care, and substance use disorders services.
Phone: 617.892.9100 - Pine Street Inn Men's ClinicThe Men’s Inn provides emergency shelter services to homeless men. Guests typically receive a bed after meeting with a case manager, who will help them chart the next steps toward securing permanent or transitional housing, job training, substance abuse counseling or other needed services. The Men’s Inn offers guests two meals a day, shower and laundry facilities and a health clinic. Health services include behavioral health, eye care, HIV care, primary care, and substance use disorders services.
Phone: 617.892.9100 - Pine Street Inn Women's ClinicThe Women’s Inn is New England’s largest emergency shelter for women, providing a safe place to sleep for 120 women each night, as well as recovery programs, health care and housing. Health services include behavioral health, dental services, eye care, HIV care, primary care, and substance Phone: 617.892.9100
- Rosie's PlaceThe Wellness Center at Rosie's Place offers behavioral health and primary care services, as well as blood pressure and blood sugar checks, strep tests, HIV testing, physicals necessary to get a disability pass from the MBTA, or assistance with entering a detox program. Rosie's Place also welcomes regular visits from volunteer acupuncturists and chiropractors and host a weekly Alcoholics Anonymous group, as well as regular physical therapy sessions.
617-442-9322 - Southampton Street ShelterThis emergency shelter serves men only and beds are allotted on a first-come, first-served basis. Men looking for shelter for the evening should go to Southampton Street Shelter, where they will be searched, screened and given admission. The shelter is open 24 hours a day on a year-round basis. Boston Health Care for the Homeless Clinics are on-site; health services include behavioral health, HIV care, primary care, and substance use disorders services. Guests who feel they need help or counseling can either “walk-in” or make an appointment with social workers.
617-534-2881 - St. Francis HouseSt. Francis House helps homeless men and women meet their basic needs for food, clothing and shelter. SFH uses a holistic approach to understanding and addressing behavioral health, housing and employment needs. Health services include behavioral health, HIV care, primary care, and substance use disorders services.
617-542-4704 - Women's Lunch PlaceThrough a partnership with Health Care Without Walls, nurses and doctors offer our guests free on-site health care services for urgent and chronic health conditions, Monday through Friday. A psychiatrist and psychologist offer counseling, and community health centers and agencies present informational workshops on relevant topics. Women's Lunch Place trains and partners with LGBTQ groups to educate and offer services to a diverse community of women.
617-267-1722