Departmental Organizations 

Important Note: In order to receive most of the following services (excluding housing, food, and medical equipment) individuals must be enrolled with one of the following state agencies. 

DisabilityInfo: https://disabilityinfo.org/ 

• While not a state organization, this site may serve as an additional resource for finding services, programs, and providers within your local area. 

Department of Developmental Services (DDS) 

• DDS: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-developmental-services 

• DDS Application: https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-eligibility-forms 

• Provides services for individuals with neurological differences and executive functioning challenges.

• Qualifying individuals typically have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or an IQ under 70 (per Neuro-Psychological or School Psychologist testing).

• Ensuring diagnoses early in childhood assists with securing services. 

• DDS Coordinators can become a part of team IEP (Individualized Education Plan) meetings after a student turns 18 and transitions to the 18-22 Post-Graduate Program (Students enrolled in this type of post-high school program cannot receive a High School Diploma). 

• Agency with Choice: https://www.mass.gov/lists/getting-started-in-agency-with-choice 

  • Allows individuals and families to have a greater amount of choice in their services and programming. 

  • Families are offered an annual budget to fund service providers, equipment, training, therapy, programs, activities, etc. 

  • Individuals and families work as co-providers alongside other agencies if so chosen. 

MassAbility (formerly known as the Mass Rehab Commission/ MRC) 

• MassAbility: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massability 

• MassAbility Application: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/apply-for-services 

• Assists individuals with physical disabilities in accessing the community.

• Promotes independence through employment assistance, assistive technology, and service providers.

Department of Mental Health (DMH)

• DMH: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-department-of-mental-health 

• DMH Application: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/applications-for-dmh-services 

• Provides services to individuals with identified mental health needs so that they may engage in meaningful occupations and participate in the community.

• Individuals must consent to services.

• Those with Guardianship can likely apply on behalf of the individual.

Mass Commission for the Blind (MCB)

• MCB: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-commission-for-the-blind 

• MCB Application: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/eligibility-for-mcb-services-registration-process 

• Provides services for individuals with vision needs/ vision impairment. 

• Services include technology, vision rehab therapists, and community supports. 

Mass Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH)

• MCDHH: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-commission-for-the-deaf-and-hard-of-hearing 

• MCDHH Application: https://www.mass.gov/forms/contact-mcdhh-online 

• Includes resources for ASL interpreters and community services.  

Department of Public Health (DPH)

• DPH: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-public-health 

• Health Library: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dph-bureaus-and-programs#public-health-library-system 

• Operates as a peripheral body ensuring access to resources, accreditation, and public awareness.

• DPH also provides Care Coordination to assist families and individuals with navigating the healthcare system: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/about-dph-care-coordination