Updated: October 29, 2025
ABCD REMAINS OPEN and continues to provide critical services to the families and communities we impact daily during the federal government shutdown.
The federal government shutdown is disrupting key safety net programs. SNAP benefits are paused starting November 1, and ABCD’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) can serve only heating emergencies until federal funding resumes.
If you need food, heat, or other assistance, see the resources below or contact ABCD Connect at abcdconnect@bostonabcd.org or call 617.348.6329.
You can also call ABCD’s main number Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, at 617.348.6000.
Or visit our LOCATIONS page to find an ABCD or Head Start center near you. And, of course, follow ABCD on social media for updates.
ABCD — Action for Boston Community Development — builds pathways out of poverty in partnership with families and communities so that everyone can thrive.
From time to time, we share information and partner resources if you or someone you know is seeking urgent assistance or economic mobility.
FOOD
Community Fridge network
Find fridge locations here.
Greater Boston Food Bank
Find updates on resources during the federal government shutdown here.
Project Bread
FoodSource Hotline: 800.645.8333
Boston Office of Food Justice
Find a variety of food resources in several languages here.
YMCA Mobile Market
Find hunger prevention resources here.
GENERAL
211
mass211.org | 211
A program of your local United Way
MASSCAP
masscap.org | MASSCAP programs
City of Boston – Mayor’s Office of Human Resources
boston.gov | Office of Human Services
CHILDREN & FAMILIES
Boston Public Schools
Massachusetts Advocates for Children
Special Education: Know Your Rights
Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care
mass.gov/orgs/department-of-early-education-and-care
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Legal Services
Greater Boston Legal Services
gbls.org
Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General
mass.gov/office-of-the-attorney-general
Mass Legal Help
masslegalhelp.org
Mass Legal Services
masslegalservices.org
HEALTH
Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services
mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-health-and-human-services
Massachusetts Department of Public Health
mass.gov/orgs/department-of-public-health
Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers
massleague.org