Family Case Management & SNAP Advocacy
Navigating complex state assistance paperwork should never feel degrading or confusing. Backed by Friendly House caseworkers, we provide compassionate, confidential advocacy for SNAP, heating assistance, utility discount rates, and emergency housing grants.
100% Free
Confidential advocacy
SNAP & Fuel
Direct application support
Bilingual
English & Español
Restoring Household Stability
Certified case managers assist with benefit audits, fuel vouchers, and emergency utility protections.
How We Help You Cut Through Bureaucracy
From online state portals to in-person appeals, we stand beside you until your benefits are secured.
SNAP / EBT Application & Advocacy
One-on-one assistance completing Massachusetts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) initial applications, semi-annual reports, and annual recertifications with the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA).
LIHEAP Fuel & Heating Assistance
Assistance filing Worcester Community Action Council (WCAC) fuel assistance grants to cover home heating oil, natural gas, or electric heating bills for low-income South Worcester households.
Utility Protection & Discount Rates
Enrollment in Eversource and National Grid 32%–36% low-income electric and gas utility discount rates, along with Massachusetts winter shut-off moratorium protections.
Housing Stabilization & RAFT Grants
Navigation of Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) emergency rental arrears grants, security deposit assistance, and rapid referrals to prevent eviction.
MassHealth & WIC Enrollment
Guidance verifying eligibility and navigating paperwork for state subsidized MassHealth medical coverage and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) nutrition support.
Friendly House Fiduciary Network
Direct connection to licensed clinical social workers, youth after-school programs, and emergency shelter resources via our 501(c)(3) sponsor, Friendly House.
Schedule a Benefits Consultation
Tell us what assistance you need. Our team will contact you to connect you with available appointments at 200 Greenwood Street or directly with Friendly House social workers.
Frequently Asked Questions: Case Management
Common questions about documentation, privacy, public charge, and appointments.
Do I need an appointment for case management or SNAP assistance?
Walk-ins are welcomed during pantry hours (Monday through Thursday 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM) for initial triage and document intake. For comprehensive application filings (such as multi-page RAFT housing or complex LIHEAP applications), we recommend calling (508) 755-7481 or submitting the request form below to reserve dedicated one-on-one time.
What documents should I bring to my consultation?
If available, please bring: (1) Valid photo ID, (2) Proof of Worcester residency (utility bill, lease, or piece of mail), (3) Last 4 consecutive paystubs or Social Security/SSI award letter, and (4) Recent electric, natural gas, or heating oil bill. If you are missing documents, do not hesitate to come—we will help you retrieve them!
Is there any fee for case management services?
Never. All family case management, benefits navigation, and application assistance are provided 100% free of charge through the community center and Friendly House.
Is bilingual assistance available?
Yes. Bilingual Spanish and English case management support is available to assist South Worcester neighbors with state forms, phone calls to DTA, and translation.
Will applying for SNAP or fuel assistance affect my immigration status?
Under Massachusetts and federal guidance, applying for SNAP nutrition assistance or fuel assistance does NOT count toward federal "public charge" tests. Undocumented parents can safely apply for SNAP on behalf of their U.S.-citizen children without legal risk.