Housing – DDS Family Support Centers

What type of housing is available for the person I support?

DDS and MA Executive Office of Aging and Independence (AGE) offer different housing types based on your support needs. To find the right fit talk to your Service Coordinator or Family Support Center.

Can the person you support live independently?

Are they able to live in their own home or with family?
Do they need assistance with skills like money management, personal organization, and self-advocacy?

Independent Housing Options

Living with Family

Many people with disabilities live with their families. This can be a good way to get support while staying connected to the community. Families can also set up a Special Needs Trust to help pay for housing or rent. The trust can even own a home for the person with disabilities, but it comes with responsibilities.

Section 8 Housing

This is a government program that helps people with low income pay for rent. If someone qualifies, they pay about one-third of their income for rent, and the program pays the rest. People who get SSI or SSDI often qualify. This is good for people who can live on their own with little help.

Accessory Dwelling Units

This is a government program that helps people with low income pay for rent. If someone qualifies, they pay about one-third of their income for rent, and the program pays the rest. People who get SSI or SSDI often qualify. This is good for people who can live on their own with little help.

Public Housing

State-funded public housing is for income eligible individuals, families, older adults and people with disabilities. These are managed by local (town/city) housing authorities.

Does the person you support need living assistance?

Do They need daily supports as well as a place to live?
Do they need more medical care?

Assisted Housing Options

Supportive Housing

Supportive Housing is for people who want to live on their own but still need help with daily tasks. They live in apartments or houses and get support like help with cooking, cleaning, or taking medicine.

Group Homes

Group homes are shared houses where a few people with disabilities live together. Staff are there to help with everyday needs. People in group homes usually eat together, share common spaces, and may get help getting to work or other activities.

Assisted Living

These places are for people who need more help, like with bathing or taking medicine. Residents usually have their own rooms or apartments, and staff are available to help. Some places are designed for people with specific needs, like memory problems.

Congregate Housing

This is a shared living arrangement in affordable housing locations. Residents have their own bedroom but may share the kitchen, living and bathroom areas. The person must be able to live independently.

Shared Living

Shared Living allows people with disabilities to live in a family setting. It provides a safe home with a sense of community. Shared Living, residents have their own bedroom and share the home with a paid caregiver who provides personalized support, skill building and opportunities for connection to the community.

Ready to start an Action Plan?

Contact your Family Support Center for help understanding eligibility for services based on your specific needs. The Family Support Center will help you identify your Service Coordinator and refer you to others who can help you.

Contact a Service coordinator