Miscellaneous

Note: this is a huge set of resources; we will break it down into separate posts, and categorized, over the summer of 2010 as we get volunteers able to to that.


UMASS Pension Action Center, providing assistance to individuals having trouble understanding or obtaining their pension benefits.

Massachusetts Do Not Call Registry

Federal Do Not Call Registry

Catalog Choice, eliminate unwanted catalogs you receive in the mail

Federal Trade Commission, Unsolicited Mail, Telemarketing and Email: Where to Go to “Just Say No”:

MISSING PERSONS ASSISTANCE :

Missing Persons Support; resources for people searching for loved ones with mental illness who are missing persons:

National Center for Missing Adults

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

Salvation Army USA, Missing Persons – guidelines and procedures, etc.:

MULTICULTURAL :

NAMI Multicultural Action Center

The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) has created a Spanish-language website to help Spanish-speaking individuals with depression and bipolar disorder and their caregivers. The website fosters an environment of understanding about the impact and management of these life-threatening illnesses by providing up-to-date, scientifically-based tools and information:

U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, The Office of Minority Health Resource Center (OMHRC) is the nation's largest repository of information on health issues specific to African Americans, American Indians/Alaska Natives, Asian Americans, Hispanics, Native Hawaiians, and other Pacific Islanders.

Healthfinder.gov, Encuentre aquí en el healthfinder.gov español las últimas informaciones y respuestas a las preguntas hechas con más frecuencia. Selecione una letra de la lista alfabética inferior para empezar a hojear los temas de salud:

Regional Office for Minority Health:

Center for Multicultural Mental Health Research, their mission is to generate innovative mental health services research that helps shape policy, practice and service delivery to reduce disparities and improve the well-being of multicultural populations:

Center for Multicultural Mental Health, Behavioral Health Disaster Response Training Program:

SAMHSA's Culturally Specific Mental Health Resources:

National Alliance for Hispanic Health, their goal is to improve health for all by using the Hispanic experience as a way to design a better system for health prevention and care. Activities: consumer and provider education, community programs, technology resources, help lines, teen theatre, policy development, advocacy, and research.

La Alianza Hispana, Inc., a hub of social service delivery, advocacy, and education in the Dudley Square area:

Sociedad Latina, viene trabajando con los jóvenes latinos como una manera de contribuir al desarrollo de la nueva generación de líderes:

"Su Familia" National Hispanic Family Health Helpline: 866-783-2645

Health brochures and booklets sent directly to you, (most available in Spanish):

Association canadienne pour la santé mentale, Le contenu de ce site est basé sur les commentaires de parents qui ont vécu cette situation et sur l'expertise de professionnels de la santé mentale et du domaine de l'éducation :

Los grupos enumerados en el directorio de las organizaciones de las inhabilidades y de los grupos de la información son una fuente de información inestimable:

ONLINE SOCIAL COMMUNITIES:

True Acceptance, a online social community that provides opportunities for adults over the age of 18 to meet other adults with mental illness:


No Longer Lonely, online dating designed exclusively for adults with serious mental illness. Membership is reserved solely for those with a diagnosis of schizophrenia , + schizoaffective disorder ,
bipolar disorder , depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder , anxiety, personality disorder , post-traumatic disorder, or disassociative disorder , or eating disorder:


ONLINE SUPPORT GROUPS:

An Online Support Group is the place to share your experiences, your feelings and wisdom.
A comfort zone for people dealing with the same health challenges.

MDJunction.com , people helping people:


Daily Strength, Free anonymous support from people like you:


Find the Light, Focusing on Mood Disorders , Anxiety, and Substance Abuse


GriefNet.org is an Internet community of persons dealing with grief, death, and major loss


Forums at Psych Central


Google Directory, Support Groups - Mental Health

ORGANIZATIONS LED by PEOPLE IN RECOVERY :

NAMI Greater Boston Consumer Advocacy/Affiliate Network, is a grassroots organization primarily consisting of mental health consumers:

Transformation Center: We are peers in all stages of recovering our mental health wellness and freedom from addictions and trauma:

M-Power, an organization of mental health consumers and current and former psychiatric patients. They advocate for political and social change within the mental health system:

Independent Living Centers of Massachusetts, Information and Referral, Skills Training and Peer Mentoring are the backbone of Direct Services:

Mental Health America , (formerly known as the National Mental Health Association) is a nonprofit dedicated to helping ALL people live mentally healthier lives:

National Empowerment Center , Recovery is real and this website is filled with practical information that will help you recover if you have been labeled with a mental illness:

Consumer Quality Initiatives (CQI) is a mental health consumer operated research, evaluation and quality improvement organization based in Massachusetts . A primary activity of CQI is to conduct personal interviews and focus groups with people with disabilities and/or their family members using semi-structured surveys and interview guides, leading to in-depth data-driven reports :

Active Minds, is a peer-to-peer organization dedicated to raising awareness about mental health among college students. The organization serves as the young adult voice in mental health advocacy on over one hundred college campuses nationwide:

ORGANIZING SERVICES :

Professional Organizers Web Ring, group of several organizers in Massachusetts :

New England Association of Professional Organizers

Christian Professional Organizers in Massachusetts

OTHER DISABILITIES SERVICES

Deaf, Late-Deafened, and Hard of Hearing services

Massachusetts Commission for the Blind

Massachusetts Dept. of Mental Retardation, DMR offices, housing, etc:

OTHER ORGANIZATIONS:

Institute for Community Inclusion, ICI, offers training, clinical, and employment services, conducts research, and provides assistance to organizations to promote inclusion of people with disabilities in school, work, and community activities:

National Center for Learning Disabilities


Lawyers with Depression


Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law

Parent/Professional Advocacy League, (PAL) advocates for supports, treatments and policies that enable families to live in their communities in an environment of stability and respect:

National Federation for Families for Children's Mental Health (FFCMH), a national family-run organization dedicated exclusively to helping children with mental health needs and their families achieve a better quality of life:

Families for Depression Awareness, helps families recognize and cope with depressive disorders to get people well and prevent suicides:

The Council for Exceptional Children, the voice and vision of special education:

National Organizations and Information Groups are an invaluable source of information:

Los grupos enumerados en el directorio de las organizaciones de las inhabilidades y de los grupos de la información son una fuente de información inestimable:

National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities

National Organization on Disability, it's ability not disability that counts:

SAMHSA's Guide to Evidenced-Based Practices (EPB) on the Web:

SAMHSA's Resource Center to Promote A cceptance, D ignity and S ocial Inclusion Associated with Mental Health (ADS Center):

Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Mental Health Work Group:

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Homelessness Resource Center (SAMHSA), sharing knowledge to prevent and end homelessness:

National Alliance to End Homelessness, they work collaboratively with the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to build state and local capacity, leading to stronger programs and policies that help homeless individuals and families make positive changes in their lives. They provide data and research to policymakers and elected officials in order to inform policy debates and educate the public and opinion leaders nationwide

United Jewish Communties (UJC), u nifying North American Jewry UJC represents and serves 155 Jewish federations and 400 independent Jewish communities across North America

National Council of Churches USA, The NCC's member faith groups — from a wide spectrum of Protestant, Anglican, Orthodox, Evangelical, historic African American and Living Peace churches :

Catholic Directory and Resources:

RECOVERY LEARNING COMMUNITIES


The Metro Suburban Recovery Learning Community is one of six regional Recovery Learning Communities funded by the Department of Mental Health. We collaborate with current peer run organizations and providers to create activities facilitated by people with mental health conditions


The Western Massachusetts Recovery Learning Community (RLC) supports individuals in finding their own paths to mental health recovery within the communities of their choice by offering trauma-sensitive peer supports and through the development of a regional peer network. The Western Mass RLC is entirely peer-run and is active in all four counties - Hampshire, Hampden, Berkshire, and Franklin - of Western Massachusetts :


The Metro Boston Recovery Learning Community (RLC) is an entirely peer-run organization which aims to connect individuals in recovery with existing peer-run organizations and individuals and to help create new opportunities for support whenever possible:

REFUGEE HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS :

Boston Center for Refugee Health and Human Rights, serves survivors of torture and related trauma, the BCRHHR firmly recognizes the importance of providing care to the whole person, ethnic community support groups and accept people with and without insurance:

International Institute of Boston , provides newcomers with direct and practical assistance in the form of English & literacy courses, Refugee Resettlement services, Citizenship Education , Economic Development, Employment Training & Placement, Legal Aid and Social Services (e.g. crisis intervention, mental health counseling, human trafficking prevention) through the Institute's three sites in Manchester NH, Lowell MA and Boston MA.

The Harvard Program in Refugee Trauma (HPRT) is a multi-disciplinary program that has been pioneering the health and mental health care of traumatized refugees and civilians in areas of conflict/post-conflict and natural disasters for over two decades.

RESEARCH :

NARSAD, supports scientific research to find better treatments and ultimately prevent severe mental illnesses:

National Institute of Mental Health , reducing the burden of mental illness and behavioral disorders through research on mind, brain and behavior:

Institute for Mental Health Research, offering Help and Hope to individuals and families living with mental health disorders:

SEARCHABLE WEB-BASED DATABASES :

DisabilityInfo.org is maintained by New England INDEX. Contained within this site is a wealth of information for people with disabilities, their friends, families and the people who serve them. Information within this site focuses on Massachusetts:

The Mental Health Information Network (MHIN) is provided as an educational service. Links to external websites are provided for educational purposes:

Healthfinder.gov has carefully selected information and Web sites from over 1,500 health-related organizations:

Disability and other resources in Massachusetts

Mass Resources, a free online resource for Massachusetts residents in need of housing, food, health care, and other basic services:

SMOKING CESSATION PROGRAMS


Visit the link below for information on an exciting new consumer run program called C.H.O.I.C.E.S (consumers helping others improve their condition by ending smoking)

The following link details "real life" stories of folks who have overcome their addiction to nicotine.


Smoking Cessation Program for Veterans 1-800-Try-to- Stop ( 800-879-8678 )

www.makesmokinghistory.org/veterans

http://www.smokefree.org http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/tobacco/

SPECIAL EDUCATION RESOURCES


Massachusetts Yellow Pages for Kids with Disabilities,

Find educational consultants, psychologists, educational diagnosticians, health care providers, academic therapists, tutors, speech language therapists, occupational therapists, coaches, advocates, and attorneys for children with disabilities on the Yellow Pages for Kids for your state. You will also find special education schools, learning centers, treatment programs, parent groups, respite care, community centers, grassroots organizations, and government programs for children with disabilities :

Family Support Center on Disabilities: Knowledge & Involvement Network, a centralized resource on the full range of options available to individuals with disabilities and their families.

Respite Care for Children with Special Care Needs "Getting a Break: A Roadmap to Respite Care for Massachusetts Families of Children with Special Health Care Needs" brochure available for download on Massachusetts' Family Voices website . This brochure gives strategies for making the most of limited respite resources & Massachusetts publicly-funded respite services.


The Higher Education Support Toolkit, developed by the Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation, provides disability service staff and health care staff with a simple way to work with students who are experiencing challenges arising from their psychiatric disability. The toolkit is available as a free download at the Center's website.

Going to College, A resource for teens with disabilities:


SPED Child and Teen offers valuable information on Massachusetts Area
Special Needs workshops, seminars and more regarding financial help, legal help, and free or low cost family and support programs:

Parents, educators, advocates, and attorneys come to Wrightslaw for accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities:

10 Tips to End the School Year, other tips and parent resources:

SPECIAL NEEDS TRUSTS and THIRD PARTY SPECIAL NEEDS POOLED TRUSTS

NAMI's Special Needs Estate Planning Guidance System:

The Special Needs Alliance (SNA) is a national, not for profit organization of attorneys dedicated to the practice of disability and public benefits law:

ElderLawAnswers supports seniors, their families and their attorneys in achieving their goals by providing the following services: The best information on the Internet about crucial legal issues facing seniors; A network of highly qualified elder law attorneys nationwide; Online practice tools for elder law attorneys:

National Elder Law Foundation, Find a Certified Elder Law Attorney

PLAN (Planned Lifetime Assistance Network)

PLAN of Massachusetts

Combined Jewish Philanthropies Disabilities Trust

Massachusetts Pooled Trust

Berkshire County ARC Master Special Needs Pooled Trust

STRESS REDUCTION PROGRAMS :

The course schedule consists of eight weekly classes and one day-long class on a Saturday or Sunday. Morning or evening courses are available. This highly participatory, practical course includes: Guided instruction in mindfulness meditation practices; Gentle stretching and mindful yoga ; Group dialogue and discussions aimed at enhancing awareness in everyday life; Individually tailored instruction; Daily home assignments; Four home practice CDs and a home practice manual; The course is challenging and life-affirming:

Stress Reduction Program, the program consists of eight 2-hour classes and a half-day workshop held at Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton, MA, body scan meditation (a directed tour of attention through the body), gentle stretching and hatha yoga , and sitting medication, instruction in informal mindulness meditation:


Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a stress reduction technique that uses the mind's ability to be aware. The course consists of weekly group classes. Participants will be introduced to and will practice guided mindfulness meditation, relaxation techniques , gentle yoga stretches and self-inquiry exercises. It is beneficial for anyone who wants to cope with stress in a healthy manner, classes in Boston and Medford:


This course is modeled after the internationally recognized Stress Reduction Program established by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn at UMass Medical School in Worcester, MA. The course consists of weekly group classes. Participants will be introduced to and will practice guided mindfulness meditation, relaxation techniques, gentle yoga stretches and self-inquiry exercises.

Classes in Concord

SUICIDE PREVENTION PROGRAMS :


Samaritans of Boston goal is to reduce the risk of suicide and increase awareness about suicide prevention throughout Greater Boston and MetroWest. Samaritan's accomplish this through five suicide prevention programs: Befriending Service - 24 Hour Helpline; Samariteens; Grief Support Services; Community Outreach; and Lifeline - Suicide Prevention & Intervention:

As the nation's leading organization working to reduce emotional distress and prevent suicide among college students , The Jed Foundation is protecting the mental health of students across the country:


The Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention, mission is to support and develop effective suicide prevention initiatives by providing leadership and advocacy, promoting collaborations among organizations, developing and recommending policy and promoting research and development. Website also has lots of resources and useful links:

Question, Persuade, and Refer -- 3 simple steps that anyone can learn to help save a life from suicide. People trained in QPR learn how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, persuade and refer to someone to help. QPR can be learned in as little as an one hour:

SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES :

Massachusetts Substance Abuse Information and Education

SAMHSA Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator

Massachusetts Substance Abuse Treatment Centers

Recovery Community Organizations in Massachusetts

SUPPORT GROUPS :


Gateway to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Information: The PTSD Information Center has Fact Sheets and Videos to answer your questions on trauma, PTSD and related issues. The National Center for Victims of Crime serves victims of any kind of crime, including those whose victimization results in PTSD. They have a Helpline, 1-800-FYI-CALL, and welcome your call.


Smart Recovery, An alternative to Alcoholics Anonymous for recovery from addictions. Statewide meeting list.
Phone: (781) 891-7574:


Dual Recovery: Weekly Tuesdays, beginning February 3rd from 12-1PM. Location: Baystate Community Services Building, Blue Chair Room-2nd Floor. 13 Temple St., Quincy MA.


Overeaters Anonymous

A NEW TEEN SIBLING SUPPORT GROUP (ages 13-16) is forming in conjunction with Andover Youth Services and "Baskets". The group will be meeting monthly, on Sundays from 4-6PM.
For more information, email Beth@fcbcsupport.org .

DBSA group meets in Lowell contact Alicia Page at dbsamerrimackvalley@yahoo.com for more info.

Support group for parents who suffer from depression, anxiety and/or mental illness meets at McLean Hospital , DeMarneffe Cafeteria, 115 Mill St. , Belmont , Thursdays 6:30- 7:30pm.
*Childcare will be provided at the meeting.
Please contact Kathleen MacDonald kathleen@gomanagement.net to RSVP if you are going to be bringing your children.

Recovery is REAL JP Chapter
-Tuesdays 3:30 to 5 pm at 284 Amory Street Jamaica Plain 02130 Near Stony Brook T Stop
-Group directed and Peer Facilitated Support Group


Metro Boston Recovery Learning Community/ Peer Education Resource Center (PERC)
129 Portland Street Boston, MA 02114 - near North Station T Stop, Call 617-788-1034 before you come. Coffee House
-Saturday 2-5:30 pm - a Peer meeting where people can come to get together on a Saturday
-Meet others, sit down, drink coffee and share your problems
-Make use of the computers and the resource center


DBSA support group meeting, every Wednesday 6:30-8:00pm, Valley Human Services, 95 South St., Ware, 01082 .
Contact dbsouthbridge@yahoo.com

Parent Support Group
Thursdays, 10am - 11:30am (Or anytime in between) YOU, Inc., 205 School Street , Gardner

Parents, Do you have a child with emotional or behavioral health care needs? Are the holidays too busy? Take a few minutes to relax and have a nice warm coffee or tea, sprinkled with Understanding, Support, and Resources.
No RSVP necessary, come when you can.... On site Childcare Provided, Refreshments will be served
For more information, please contact Kathy Hamelin at (978)632-2321 x49

Parent Support Groups (with children addicted to substance abuse )

2009 Expressive Arts Sibling Groups
Winter and Spring series for brothers and sisters of children with disabilities , chronic mental illnesses and/or severe medical problems. Weekly and monthly offerings for children 5 to 15 years old. Space is limited.
These are offered in Watertown by Cecil Reve, LMHC-ET.

A new Foundation for Children with Behavioral Challenges (FCBC) support group is forming in the Wrentham area .
Contact Beth Edelstein at Beth@fcbcsupport.org for more details!

The West Suburban Site Parent Peer Support group has relocated to: Metro West Supported Housing, 340 Maple Street - 4th Floor,Marlborough MA . Time remains from 10:00-11:30.
Call Chip Wilder, Director of Family Options to register at 508-485-5051, x240 . This group meets weekly on Wednesday's.

Peer Support Group Thursdays 3-4pm (ASL Interpreter Provided)
Dual Recovery Peer Support Group , Thursdays 7-8pm (ASL Interpreter Provided)
Parent Peer Support Group , Thursdays 10-11am St. Chrysostom's Church (Davidson Room) 1 Linden St (corner of Hancock & Linden),
North Quincy Mental Health Peer Support Group, Saturdays 10:30-11:30am Emmanual Parish Church, 519 Washington St., Braintree Peer Support Group, 2nd Thursday/month Neponset River House, 595 Pleasant St., Norwood

Winchester Hospital, support groups http://www.winchesterhospital.org/community/search/searchDefault.asp Newton Wellesley Hospital, support groups

http://www.nwh.org/itemDetail.asp?categoryID=24&itemID=17364

Lowell General Hospital, support groups

Emerson Hospital, support groups

DBSA-Boston offers a variety of support groups for both people with affective disorders and their friends and families

NSMC North Shore Children's Hospital, Family Support Programs

Freedom Center Support Group, Northampton

Hearing Voices Group

Every Tuesday, 4:30 to 6 PM at the Recovery Learning Center , 187 High St., Suite 303 , Holyoke MA

DBT Peer Support Group:
Join Melanie for this new peer support group based in learning about distress tolerance skills taught in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
~ Melanie will guide individuals to explore how to better tolerate distress and difficult emotions using these skills.
~ No prior experience with DBT required!
When: Thursdays from 4-5 p.m. (Cancelled on 11/27)
Where: Holyoke RCC, 187 High St., Suite 303, Holyoke


Social Anxiety Support Group:
Join Sera and others from the community in this group intended for individuals who have difficulty with anxiety and being around others, particularly in groups.
~ For the safety of the group, number of participants is limited to 6 and no one will be
able to join the group more than five minutes after the designated start time.
~ Groups will be held in a closed-door setting before regular open hours, and participants
can stay after the group for open hours or leave prior to the arrival of other individuals.
~ Groups will start with a quiet moment, followed by check-ins and the introduction of
topics or open talk time. Light snacks will be provided.
When: Fridays from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Where: Holyoke RCC, 187 High St., Suite 303, Holyoke
***Sign-up is encouraged due to the limited space.
Call 413-539-5941, x203 with questions or to sign up

Advocates, Inc., Peer Support Group, Fridays 5-6 pm, 675 Main St., Waltham, MA.

Advocates, Inc., WRAP Support Group, every Wednesday 6:30-8:00 pm, 675 Main St., Waltham, MA.

Peer Support Group, every Tuesday, 4:30-5:30 pm, Waltham Clinic of the Edinburg Center, 169 Elm St. Waltham, MA, second floor conference room

The Children's Room helps grieving children, teens and families in our community to go on living fully. We serve families from over 75 cities and towns in Massachusetts. We are also part of a Massachusetts-wide network of programs helping grieving children, teens and families. Contact us to learn about programs serving your area or how you can help grieving children, teens and families:

NAMI's online communities for all family members

My Invisible Disabilities Community, this network is for people living with chronic illness, pain, injuries and/or disabilities, as well as their friends and family:

Before attending a support group it's advisable to call/email and confirm the meeting location, date and time since meeting information may not be up-to-date. It's also advisable to attend more than one group so you can find one where you feel comfortable sharing. A support group is a safe, confidential place to share amongst peers.

NAMI Massachusetts, supports groups for people in recovery and support groups for family members and caregivers:

Vet-to-Vet (Women's Veteran's self-help support group), meets Thursdays from 1-2pm at the Jamaica Plain Veterans Hospital , Fourth Flr Rm C-12, Contact Darlene Saunders 857-364-6396

Samaritans, Grief Support Services and Helplines (Greater Boston & MetroWest areas):

Samaritans of Fall River & New Bedford Areas, Services and Helplines:

American Association of Suicidology, support groups for those who have lost a loved one:

Massachusetts Suicide Support Groups

Parent/Professional Advocacy League, Parent Support Group listing for viewing or printing out:

Asperger's Association of New England, various support groups

Autism Society of America , Massachusetts Chapter

Attention Deficit Disorder Association, support groups in Mass

Children and Adults with AD/HD, Mass chapter:

Tourettes Syndrome Association, Inc., Massachusetts Chapter:

National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Eating Disorders Support Groups

Multiservice Eating Disorders Association, supports groups in Mass:

Anxiety Support groups in Massachusetts

Massachusetts Anxiety Support Groups

Emotions Anonymous, meetings in Mass

Obsessive Compulsive Foundation, support groups in Mass

Abraham Low Self-Help Systems (formerly Recovery Inc.), meetings in Massachusetts:

Depression Bipolar Support Alliance , support groups in Mass:

Manic-Depressive Depressive Association of Boston , supports groups in New England :

Child & Adolescent Bipolar Foundation, parent support groups in Mass:

Foundation for Children with Behavioral Challenges, parent support groups:

Co-Dependents Anonymous, locate a meeting :

Postpartum Support International, support groups and other resources in Mass

Dual Recovery Anonymous, meetings in Mass

Dual Recovery meetings at Mass. Clubhouses

Narcotics Anonymous, meetings

Alcoholics Anonymous, meetings

Massachusetts Al-Anon/Alateen meetings

Debtors Anonymous, meeting locator

Gamblers Anonymous, meeting listing in Mass:

Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts , Survivor and Family Support:

PTSD Support group in Mass:

Sidran Institute, (Traumatic Stress Education & Advocacy). Extensive information and resources on PTSD, dissociative disorder, trauma, and self injury; Help desk

Trichotillomania Learning Center , support groups in Mass

Parents helping parents support groups, confidential and anonymous Parents Support Group s meet weekly at many locations in Massachusetts . At these group meetings, parents can talk to other parents about how to improve their relationships with their children:

Epilepsy Foundation of Mass. & Rhode Island, adults, ages 18 and over, living with epilepsy an opportunity to share common experiences through a supportive group, also provide families the opportunity to share common experiences, network and support one another through Parent and Family Support Network (PFSN) Group gatherings:

Caregiver Alliance of Suffolk County , support groups

Alzheimers Association, Massachusetts Chapter, support groups for caregivers

The Sibling Support Project is a national effort dedicated to the life-long concerns of brothers and sisters of people who have special health, developmental, or mental health concerns. Find a Sibhop near you:

American Tinnitus Association, ATA support network

Mentalhelp.net website, American self-help support groups, you may be able to find other support groups using this site:

McLean Hospital , Child and Adolescent Program, Current Outpatient Support Group Offerings:

Mass. General Hospital support group list:

Metro Suburban Recovery Learning Community Faulkner Hospital , Addiction Recovery Groups and Self-Help Groups:

Cambridge Health Alliance , Outpatient Groups

AdCare Hospital, Outpatient Groups, click on location for details

Jordan Hospital , Depression after Delivery support group

Newton-Wellesley Hospital , Adult outpatient support groups

North Shore Medical Center, outpatient support groups

Wing Memorial Hospital & Medical Center , outpatient support groups

Grandparents responsible for their grandchildren living with them

A free group for siblings (ages 5-12) of children/adolescents with behavioral, emotional, or mental health challenges

Parent Partnership Program, building strength, hope & resiliency

A free support group for Parents who's adolescent or your adult is struggling with substance abuse

TRANSPORTATION :

MBTA Reduced Fare Program, Application for MBTA Transportation Access Pass

Massachusetts Association of Regional Transit Authorities (MARTA)


Public transportation options in your community

MAB Community Services has volunteers available for transportation for those that are legally blind in Worcester county area.
Call (508) 854-0700 for intake. Donation - couple of dollars


Minuteman Senior Services website has a transportation guide on sixteen Minuteman senior service towns (Acton, Arlington, Bedford, Boxborough, Burlington, Carlisle, Concord, Harvard, Lexington, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Stow, Wilmington, Winchester & Woburn).Click on link for transportation in individual towns or complete transportation guide.


MassHealth members who need non-emergency transportation to and from medical appointments may be eligible for free transportation services. Eligible members who use private or public transportation can get reimbursement for their transportation expenses. Eligible members who need dial-a-ride services can get van or taxi service free of charge. Call MassHealth at 1-800-841-2900 to for more information about medical related transportation.

Charity Cars, Inc., national charity that provides donated vehicles free of charge to struggling families willing to work and become self-sufficient, tax-paying members of the community, how to apply for a vehicle:

Good News Garage is working hard to find good donated cars in Massachsetts to help qualified low-income families

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, The Ride and ADA Paratransit service available to the disabled in 62 communities via 4 subcontractors. Call for more information and to apply or download the application

Brockton Area Transit Authority , dial-a-bat serves the elderly and disabled. Call and apply for an ADA pass to use this service

Cape Ann Transportation Authority, Elderly and handicapped service, call for more information and to apply

Franklin Regional Transit Authority, Paratransit service available. Call for more information and to apply

Greenfield-Montague Transportation Area

Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority, dial-a-ride serves the elderly and disabled. Call for more information about this and the ADA pass

Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority, ADA Paratransit service available. Call for more information and to apply

Lowell Regional Transit Authority, Roadrunner ADA Paratransit services are available to persons with disabilities. Call for more information and to apply

Pioneer Valley Transit Authority, Paratransit service is available for seniors and disabled riders. Call for more information and to apply

Merrimack Valley Regional Transportation Authority, ADA and Non-ADA EZ Trans service is available. Call for more information and to apply

Southeast Regional Transit Authority, Demand Response services for the disabled. Call for more information and to apply

Montachusett Regional Transit Authority, ADA, Dial-a-Mart and other services are available for seniors and the disabled. Call for more information and to apply

Worcester Regional Transit Authority, Paratransit service is available. Call for more information and to apply

Martha's Vineyard Regional Transit Authority, Paratransit service is available. Call for more information and to apply

Nantucket Regional Transit Authority, Paratransit service is available. Call for more information and to apply

128 Business Council, lists various shuttles in various communities along Route 128. Also links to some rideshares organizations

Massachusetts Transportation Options, listing of known public transportation options by county and some towns

TRUST AND GUARDIANSHIP SERVICES

Massachusetts Bar Association, Client Service Pamphlets: What is a Guardian and a Conservator? Living Wills and Health Care Proxies? and more

The Handbook on Guardianship and the Alternatives , (a PDF file, 109 pgs) an explanation in simple terms of guardianship, conservatorship and other options.
Copyright 2007 by Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee

ElderLawAnswers, the combination of an informed consumer and a qualified attorney produces the best legal results for the clients.
ElderLawAnswers supports seniors, their families and their attorneys in achieving their goals (find an attorney, etc.):

Find a lawyer in your area of Massachusetts whose practice includes Guardianships and Conservatorships:

UTILITY PROGRAMS :

Low Income Energy (Gas, Oil, and Electric) Programs in Massachusetts :

SafeLink Wireless is a government support program that provides a free cell phone and airtime each month for income-eligible customers:

The Citizens Energy Oil Heat Program was created for people who are struggling to pay their heating bills in Massachusetts :

MassSAVE, in addition to in-home programs and incentives, Massachusetts homeowners can take advantage of other energy-saving programs including rebates towards the installation of energy-saving equipment and products:

Lifeline is a government program that offers qualified low income households a discount on their monthly local telephone bill and Link Up helps households reduce the cost of initiating telephone service:

VETERANS RESOURCES :


The Veterans' Administration offers a Special Pension with Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit that is largely unknown. This Special Pension (part of the VA Improved Pension program) allows for Veterans and surviving spouses who require the regular attendance of another person to assist in eating, bathing, dressing, undressing or taking care of the needs of nature to receive additional monetary benefits. It also includes individuals who are blind or a patient in a nursing home because of mental or physical incapacity. Assisted care in an assisted living facility also qualifies.

National Center for PTSD

The Massachusetts Bar Association (MBA) has announced a supplement to its monthly Dial-A-Lawyer programs: a session dedicated solely to veterans' legal questions. The free program will run on Thursday, October 16 from 5:30-7:30pm. Volunteer lawyers will field phone calls and answer questions an any legal issue, including those related to state and federal benefits. Lawyers will be available by phone from 5:30-7:30pm. This free program is open to Massachusetts residents who are veterans of the armed services. The Veterans Dial-A-Lawyer program is provided at no charge as a public service of the MBA.

The Dial-A-Lawyer phone number is 617-338-0610.

Veterans Resources at the NAMI website:

Massachusetts Dept. of Veterans Services

Veterans Outreach and Counseling in Massachusetts

Dept. of Veterans Affairs Hotline, Staffed 24/7 with Mental Health professionals who can refer callers to one of more than 120 VA crisis centers closest to them. Their goal is to get the veteran the best immediate help needed: 800-273-8255. Spanish speaking line is 888-628-9454.

VA New England Healthcare System:

Giveanhour.org, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free mental health services to U.S. military personnel and their families affected by the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan :

Vet-to-Vet (Women's Veteran's self-help support group), meets Thursdays from 1-2pm at the Jamaica Plain Veterans Hospital , Fourth Flr Rm C-12, Contact Darlene Saunders 857-364-6396

Veterans as Employees

Designed by U.S. Department of Labor for employers and the workforce development system , the America' s Heroes at Work website is a link to information and tools to help returning service members succeed in the workplace.

2-page Flyer on Resources for Veterans

A variety of resources to treatment providers, veterans, and their family members by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Web Portal focus on Post Deployment

The Department of Defense launched a web portal that allows service members to seek mental health treatments focused on post-deployment problems

Suicide Prevention Tools from US Army

To support and empower soldiers, civilians, families and veterans in minimizing suicide behavior by providing tools for human resource personnel and commanders

Reports on Suicide Prevention , Depression and Treatment among Veterans

This issue of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) Report examines data from veterans aged 21 to 39 who have experienced Major Depressive Disorder .

This second report, prepared by the Congressional Research Service , discusses data and risk and protective factors for suicide in the general population and among veterans.

Online Directory of Resources for Wounded Veterans and their Families:

The National Resource Directory is a web site, developed jointly by the Departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs, that provides over ten thousand services and resources available through governmental and non-governmental organizations to support recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration into the community.

Operation Healthy Reunions, Information for troops and their families:

WARMLINES

The Warmline is a call in service that provides the community with a place to turn if they need someone to talk to. The Warmline Staff are Mental Health Consumers. All staff have received the training and education needed to provide Warmline services to the community. All calls are kept confidential. What you say is kept between you and the Warmline staff. The only exception is when the call is considered a crisis. In this case the call will be referred to the crisis service.

MetroBoston

MetroBoston Recovery Learning Community
Phone: 877-733-7563 (877-PEER LNE)

Hours: Mon. Thurs. & Sat. 4-8 pm

Center Club Warmline
Phone: (617) 675-3873
Hours: Mon-Sun 2-5 pm

Casa Primavera Warmline
Phone: (617) 445-8017
Hours: M-F 8-9 am, 5-11pm, Sat & Sun 9am-5pm

Metro Surburban Area

C.A.S.T.L.E.
Phone: (617) 610-7907
Hours: Su-F 7-11 pm

The Peer Line
Phone: (508) 312-5139
Hours: M-F 5:30-10 pm

Consumer Warmline
Phone: (800) 243-5836
Hours: Mon-Fri 5-10 pm, Sat & Sun 1-10pm

Edinburg Center

Phone: 781-862-3600 or 781-860-0570

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 5pm-10pm, Sat & Sun. 1pm – 10pm

Central MA Area

Cross Connections
Phone: (978) 629-8485
Hours: M-F 4-7 pm & 10-12 pm

Tradewind Warmline
Phone: (508) 864-0270
Hours: Fri 4-10 pm, Sat & Sun 10am-10 pm

The Central Mass Recovery Learning Community
Phone: 508-468-9740

Hours: Mon-Sun 6-8 pm

Westwinds Warmline
Phone: (508) 426-1660
Hours: Mon-Sun 6-9 pm

Northeast Area

Project Rap
Phone: (978) 922-0000
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-5:00 pm

Western MA

Pioneer Valley Warmline
Phone: (413) 747-8658
Hours: Thurs-Sun 5pm-1am

List of known Warmlines