In May 2023, Governor Maura Healey signed Executive Order #613 reaffirming and establishing the Governor’s Veterans’ Advisory Council (GVAC) to inform her on all issues impacting Massachusetts veterans, complementing the work of the EOVS to assess current programs, services, and regulations for veterans, and make recommendations. In November 2023, Governor Healey swore in 25 appointed members to the GVAC:

• Charles  Battle, Springfield   

• Jeffery Blonder, Swampscott   

• Todd Bowers, Wayland   

• Clifford Brown, Hyde Park   

• Guillermo Candelario, Woburn   

• Jeffrey Chin, Shrewsbury   

• John Lee Diaz, Newton   

• Jenny D'Olympia, Canton   

• Edward Flynn, South Boston   

• Curtis Frye, East Falmouth   

• Patrick George, Roslindale   

• Gumersindo Gomez, Springfield   

• Richard Gormley, West Roxbury   

• Sarah Johnson, Quincy   

• Cindy Lacoste, Westfield   

• Thomas Lyons, Wakefield   

• James Morrissey, Wareham   

• Sally Nay, Indian Orchard   

• Jooyi Ryan, East Sandwich   

• Dana Sanders-Udo, North Easton   

• Matthew Seto, Quincy   

• Richard Smith, Marshfield   

• Joeseph Thompson Jr., Brockton   

• Michael Valila, Gardner   

• Olivia Anne Walsh, Chelsea  

The Women Veterans Advisory Committee (WVAC) is appointed under Section 2 of Chapter 115 to investigate, foster and promote the interests of women veterans. The advisory committee may issue annual reports on their activities.

• 2024–2025 Women Veterans Advisory Committee Report

In November 2023, Governor Healey swore in 17 appointed members to the WVAC to ensure women veterans’ needs and rights are prioritized and promoted:

• Catherine Corkery, Millbury

• Ashley Flynn, Boston

• Karen Frias, Methuen

• Andrea Gayle-Bennett, Lynn

• Deirdre Ann Hosler, Medford

• Stephanie Landry, Hull

• Sara Lansing, Duxbury

• Tiffany Lever, Chelmsford

• Leanna Lynch, Framingham

• Kelly McAllister, Belchertown

• Stephanie Shaw, Chicopee

• Marika Solhan, Lynn

• Kayla Valila, Gardner

• Liseth Velez, Everett

• Latashia White, Charlestown

• Sandra Gatlin Whitley, New Bedford

The EOVS Veterans Reintegration Advisory Committee (VERC) was established in October 2023 under Section 77 of S.3097 to investigate, study, and examine the complexities of reintegration into civilian life and ways to augment services to returning veterans to reduce the rate of suicide and effects of PTSD, depression, and anxiety; the impacts of community peer liaisons on veteran reintegration and symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety; and the relationships between isolation and suicide among veterans.

• Veterans Reintegration Advisory Committee Report: An Examination of Suicide among Veterans and their Reintegration into Society (December 2023)

VRAC Members

• John Rodolico, Co-Chair, PhD, Clinical Advisor, EOVS SAVE Team

• Margaret Guyer, Co-Chair, Ph.D., Clinical and Professional Services, Department of Mental Health

• René Lento, Director of Addictions Services at Home Base

• Bill Davidson Sr., Director of Veteran Outreach and Peer Support, Home Base

• Dr. Erin Fletcher, Director, Wounded Warrior Project

• Charly Oliva, Veteran Service Officer, Belchertown

• Paula Tessier, Associate Director, Mass Coalition for Suicide Prevention

• Dr. Miriam Stoll, Clinical Psychologist, Worcester Recovery Center, and Hospital (DMH)

• Amanda Braga-Tipton

• Elisabeth Parrott, Director, Lowell Mass VETS Center

• Michael Baird, Alumni Manager, Wounded Warrior Project

• Kelley Cunningham, Director of Suicide Prevention Program, DPH

• Angela Taveira-Dick, Associate Director of Military and Veteran Psychology Program, William James College

• Katherine Nicholas Malvey, LICSW, VISN 1 Veterans Justice Programs Coordinator, US Department of Veterans Affairs

• MAJ (P) Katherine Murphy, Director, Warrior Resilience & Fitness, Massachusetts National Guard

• Lily Mendez, President and CEO of Mass Mentoring Partnership

The EOVS Veterans Homes Council was established through Chapter 144 in 2022 to act as an advisory body to the EOVS Secretary. The 19-member council will recommend policies and propose rules/regulations pertaining to state-operated Veterans Homes; refer recommendations for appointment/removal of the Superintendent of the Veterans Homes; and provide an annual report with recommendations to increase regional equity and accessibility and provide equitable access to Veterans Homes for people of all identities.

Veterans Homes Council Members

• Ziven Drake

• Lt. Colonel USMC (Retired) Mike Dunford

• Capt. (Retired) Jonathan S. Olshaker, MD, FAAEM, FACEP

• Michael Jefferson

• Dr. Louis Chow, PhD

• Jill Landis, RN

In addition to the seven members appointed by Governor Healey and Acting Secretary Beckman, the Veterans Homes Council includes Executive Director of Veterans Homes and Housing and Veterans Home in Chelsea Acting Superintendent Robert J. Engell, who serves as chair, and Chelsea and Holyoke Veterans Homes Boards of Trustees members, who are ex officio, voting members.

Archived Minutes

• March 28, 2023

• April 12, 2023

• June 27, 2023

• September 1, 2023

• January 16, 2024

• March 26, 2024

• September 24, 2024

• December 17, 2024

• March 18, 2025

• June 17, 2025

As part of the HERO Act signed by Governor Healey, the Veterans Quality of Life Commission is tasked with studying and developing proposals aimed at improving the quality of life for veterans in the Commonwealth. This initiative will explore ways to enhance employment opportunities and other key areas impacting veterans’ well-being, working in collaboration with veterans’ organizations across the state. The commission includes veterans advocates, policy experts, and representatives from key organizations dedicated to supporting veterans.

VQL Members

• Cory Ahonen

• Scott Pita

• Leroy Ashwood

• Ashley  Booker

• Al Tenorio

• Sarah Bateman

• Senator Dylan Fernandes

• Sergeant Ryan Puzzo

• Bill LeBeau

• Robert Breaker

• Melissa Alden

Archived Minutes

• March 24, 2025

• June 23, 2025

• July 28, 2025

• August 25, 2025

• September 22, 2025

• October 27, 2025

Part of the HERO Act signed by Governor Healey, the Veterans Alternative Therapy Working Group is tasked with exploring the potential benefits of psychedelic therapy in treating mental health disorders among veterans. The Group will evaluate scientific research, expert opinions, and clinical trials to determine the effectiveness of treatments using psilocybin, ketamine, and MDMA under medical supervision. Comprising experts from medical institutions, veterans organizations, and behavioral health fields, the group aims to develop evidence-based recommendations on the use of these therapies for veterans in the Commonwealth.

VAT Members

• Franklin King (Chair)

• John Bradley

• Paul Morrissey

• Paul Jones

• Rob McLaughlin

• Jason Main

• Michael Allard

• Roxanne Sholevar

• Sharmin Ghaznavi

• Colin Beatty

To be eligible for an annuity, disabled veterans must:

• meet one of the service time requirements set forth in MGL Chapter 4, Section 7, Clause 43, MGL Chapter 115, Section 6A, and 108 CMR 3.03;

• have received an Other Than Dishonorable discharge from military service;

• be a resident of Massachusetts at the time of applying for the annuity and continues to be a resident of the Commonwealth as per MGL Chapter 115, Section 6A; and

• meet the requirements for blindness, paraplegia, double amputation or other disability set forth in MGL Chapter 115, Section 6B certified by the VA.

Veterans must submit proof of service (DD214 with Character of Discharge) and proof of disability (VA Rating Decision) with their application as per MGL Chapter 115, Section 6C.

To be eligible for an annuity, surviving parents must:

• survive a veteran whose death was service-connected or resulted from COVID-19 while residing at the Holyoke or Chelsea Veterans’ Homes; and

• reside in Massachusetts and continue to reside in Massachusetts from the date of application and while in receipt of annuity payments.

Surviving parents must submit the deceased veteran’s proof of service (DD214 with Character of Discharge), death certificate or casualty report, and birth certificate with their application.

To be eligible for an annuity, surviving spouses may not be remarried and must:

• survive a veteran whose death was service-connected or resulted from COVID-19 while residing at the Holyoke or Chelsea Veterans’ Homes; and

• reside in Massachusetts and continue to reside in Massachusetts from the date of application and while in receipt of annuity payments.

Surviving spouses must submit the deceased veteran’s proof of service (DD214 with Character of Discharge), death certificate or casualty report, and VA DIC rating decision with their application.

Veterans who received a less than honorable discharge who believe the unfavorable characterization resulted from their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression (including situations involving sexual assault, harassment, or domestic violence); race, ethnicity, or color; religious creed; national origin; age, or disability may submit an application to the VERB, along with evidence, to have the facts and circumstances reviewed.

• The Veterans Equality Review Board will review the application and render a written recommendation to the Secretary of the Executive Office of Veterans Services within 30 days of receipt.

• The EOVS Secretary will then issue a written determination approving or denying the application within 10 days of receiving the board’s recommendations.

• If the veteran’s application is approved, the veteran may qualify as a veteran to receive state-based veteran benefits, provided they meet the rest of the basic eligibility requirements.

• If the veteran’s application is denied, the veteran may provide additional supporting documentation and request a reconsideration within 30 days of receiving the Secretary’s decision.

Veterans must still meet the time in service requirements and income or disability requirements in order to qualify for Chapter 115 or Annuity financial benefits.

• In order to qualify for federal veterans’ benefits, veterans with less than honorable discharges will still need to apply directly to their branch of service to request a discharge upgrade.

• Veterans may obtain a Character of Service determination through the VA, which may be able to still offer benefits to veterans if the VA determines their discharge was “under conditions other than dishonorable.”

• Visit the Bad Paper Discharge page for more resources around discharge upgrades.

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are public and private non-profit agencies designated by the state to address the needs and concerns of elders at the regional and local levels and may be categorized as city, county, regional planning council or council of nonprofits. Care Coordinate is the central point of connection for member ASAPs and serves as a hub for Massachusetts Home Care, the non-profit trade association representing the network of ASAPs and  AAAs in Massachusetts. 

Councils on Aging (COAs) are the municipal agencies that provide local outreach, social and health services, advocacy, information and referral for older adults, their families, and caregivers. Local COAs and Senior Centers serve as elder advocates and links to support services for elders, families, and caregivers and offer services and activities such as outreach, transportation, meals, health screenings, health insurance counseling, and life-long learning, social, fitness, wellness, and recreation activities.

MassOptions is a public service of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health & Human Services (EOHHS) that can also help older adults, people with disabilities, and family members or caregivers identify aging and disability services and connect to those that can meet their needs. Call 800-243-4636.

The Eldercare Locator is a public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging connecting older adults and their families to local services. Call or text (800) 677-1116, email, or start an online chat to speak with an Information Specialist on weekdays from 8am–9pm.

The Family Caregiver Support Program is a free program that can help people in Massachusetts who are caring for an older family member, grandparents age 55+ caring for grandchildren, and relatives age 55+ caring for someone with a disability. A Caregiver Specialist will create a plan and offer tips and support. Caregivers can call (800) 243-4636 and ask to speak with a Caregiver Specialist.

MCI services are for anyone in Massachusetts experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis to use at any time, no insurance is needed. MCI services are provided by trained professionals who can travel to your location or work with you at a CBHC to assess your needs, provide immediate assistance, and determine the best path forward. Instead of going to the ER, MCI services allow anyone going through a crisis to either walk into a CBHC or call for a team to come to their location and access immediate mental health care.

CSS is a less restrictive alternative to inpatient hospitalization for people in need of short-term, overnight crisis care that is covered by MassHealth plans and some commercial insurers. The programs have home-like, friendly, and comfortable environments that offer a feeling of community while maintaining a safe and secure setting. CBHCs offer programs for both Adults (age 18+) and Youth (age 18 and under) with services including individual, group, and family therapy; medication management; crisis intervention; and future crisis prevention planning.

Routine Outpatient Services are comprehensive outpatient mental health and substance use services for MassHealth members that are also covered by some commercial insurers. These services are available from 8am–8pm on weekdays and 9am–5pm on weekends both in-person at CBHCs and via telehealth, with extended hours. Services include:

• same-day mental health and substance use evaluation, assessment, and individualized treatment;

• individual/family/group therapy;

• psychiatric medication consultations;

• peer support services;

• medication for addiction treatment;

• care coordination;

• referrals to treatment; and

• timely follow-up appointments.

The Section 8 Veterans Housing Voucher Program program serves homeless veterans with disabilities, severe psychiatric, and/or substance abuse disorders. Admission is by referral only from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans’ Services, VA Medical Centers, or EOVS provider agencies. To be eligible, veterans must:

• be honorably discharged; and

• have been living in a shelter, in a transitional housing program, or on the street for at least 30 days; and

• have a verified disability or diagnosed psychiatric or substance use disorder; and

• be psychiatrically stable with no incidence of violence within the prior year.

Veterans’ service providers are responsible for ensuring referrals to the VHVP meet these eligibility criteria at the time of referral. Upon selection from the waiting list, the RAA will verify eligibility for all other Section 8 requirements. Due to the length of time an applicant may be on the waiting list, the RAA may need to reconfirm eligibility with the referring agency.

If you are on a state-aided public housing waitlist with a Local Housing Authority or private subsidized housing development, you may qualify to receive preference or priority if you are a veteran or immediate family of a veteran, or based on other factors such as:

• living in a substandard, dilapidated, unsafe, or condemned unit;

• currently being homeless or facing eviction;

• being displaced by fire, flood, domestic violence, hate crime, or your unit owner’s action;

• paying 50% or more of your income for rent and utilities;

• having a mobility impairment and living in an inaccessible unit; or

• being a local resident.

Ask your LHA or housing manager what preferences or priority they offer. Certain Massachusetts residents who meet eligibility and gross income requirements may also qualify for the state’s Emergency Assistance housing programs.

Waitlists are currently open for Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program for both mobile and project-based rental subsidies. MRVP is a housing voucher program where participants pay around 30% of their income in rent and a voucher pays the rest. Mobile vouchers move with the household; participants are given 180 days to find a suitable unit within Massachusetts to maintain it. Mobile vouchers will only pay up to the payment standard as determined by household size and geography.

• The income limit for eligible applicants to qualify for the MVRP is 80% of Area Median Income. MRVP looks at your income after program deductions and exclusions are applied. There is an asset limit at eligibility. You do not need to be elderly, disabled, or part of a family to be eligible for MRVP. Only some housing authorities have MRVP.

• Many applicants will wait years for a voucher. MRVP offers priorities based on homelessness and they are based on the reason you are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness (including fire or natural disaster, state sanitary code or other violations, no fault loss of housing, and severe medical emergency, or abusive situations). 

• Any local housing agency can help you apply, even if they don’t have MRVP. Apply online using CHAMP. Paper applications can also be submitted to any housing agency. Click here or watch the information session to learn more. Some local housing agencies maintain waiting lists for project-based vouchers; opportunities are also listed on Housing Navigator Massachusetts.

MRVP offers local and regional preferences based on where you live or last lived, where you work, or where your child attends school. Most mobile vouchers are offered to eligible applicants on local waiting lists. MRVP does not have a preference for veterans; the Alternative Housing Voucher Program (AHVP) and state-funded public housing does.

The Alternative Housing Voucher Program (AHVP) has a preference for veterans. AHVP provides rental subsidies to eligible applicants who are generally less than 60 years old at eligibility (ie, not elderly) with a disability and income below around 80% of Area Median income. As of February 2023, there were 8 regional non-profit housing agencies and 54 local housing authorities administering AHVP to approximately 700 households under lease across Massachusetts.

• LHAs issuing AHVP vouchers: Acton, Amherst, Andover, Barnstable, Belmont, Brockton, Charlton, Chelsea, Fitchburg, Holyoke, Ipswich, Mansfield, Melrose, New Bedford, Newburyport, Northbridge, Provincetown, Revere, Sandwich, Sharon, Spencer, Springfield, Taunton, Westfield, Whitman, and Wrentham.

Participants pay rent in an amount equal to either 25% or 30% of their monthly income to the landlord (depending on whether utilities are included). Regional non-profit housing agencies and local housing authorities administer AHVP locally. The local administering agency provides direct payments to the landlord for the remainder of the monthly rent.

Apply online through the Centralized Housing Application for Massachusetts Programs (CHAMP). Applicants will be placed on the waiting lists they choose. Waits may be long. When an applicant nears the top of an LHA's waiting list, the LHA will contact them to determine eligibility.

The RAFT program helps keep households in stable housing situations when facing eviction, foreclosure, loss of utilities, and other housing emergencies caused by loss of income, increase in expenses, or both by providing up to $7,000 to help preserve current housing or move to new housing.

• RAFT can cover utilities, moving costs, mortgage arrears and overdue rent costs, as well as future rent in limited situations.

• To qualify, you must have an income no more than 50% of the AMI (or no more than 60% of the AMI if at risk of domestic violence) and you must be at risk of homelessness or housing instability.

• If eligible, you can apply directly through the Massachusetts Emergency Housing Payment Assistance Portal. Landlords can apply directly for rental assistance on behalf of eligible tenants.

• As of July 1, 2023, the state-funded RAFT program is available to low-income homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure.

Massachusetts residents who are homeless, including those fleeing domestic violence (currently or in the past year), who are pregnant, or with children under age 21, and who meet gross income requirements (115% of the Federal Poverty Level) may qualify for Emergency Assistance.

Those found eligible for EA are also eligible for the Short-Term Housing Transition  and HomeBASE programs. HomeBASE offers the opportunity for families to overcome the financial barriers impacting their homelessness through case management and funding to support re-housing.

• HomeBASE offers up to $20,000 over 2 years for families to pay rent or utility arrears, and payments to allow families experiencing homelessness to stay with other households.

• HomeBASE will also cover first/last month’s rent and security deposit required to obtain housing; and moving expenses and many other costs allowing families to become or remain housed.

More flexible income and credit requirements mean more Massachusetts homebuyers may be eligible for a MassHousing Mortgage with affordable, fixed interest rates and no hidden fees or surprises.

Qualified borrowers can receive a loan for up to 10% of a home's purchase price or $30,000 to $50,000 depending on the location of the home.

Eligible members of the Reserves, National Guard, active duty military, veterans, and Gold Star Families can receive an additional $2,500 for closing costs.

Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of at least 10%; Purple Heart recipients; qualifying parents whose child died in military service; and qualifying spouses and unmarried surviving spouses of veterans covered by this clause.

Veterans with qualifying service-connected loss or permanent loss of use of one hand at or above the wrist, one foot at or above the ankle, or loss of sight in one eye; recipients of the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross or Air Force Cross; and qualifying current or former prisoners of war.

Qualifying spouses and surviving spouses may also receive benefits under Clause 22A.

Veterans with a VA-rated 100% service-connected disability.

Qualifying spouses and surviving spouses may also receive benefits under Clause 22E.

Veterans with qualifying service-connected loss or permanent loss of use of both hands, both feet, or one hand and one foot at the specified anatomical levels, or qualifying loss of sight in both eyes.

Qualifying spouses and surviving spouses may also receive benefits under Clause 22B.

Veterans with service-connected permanent and total disability who have received VA assistance in acquiring specially adapted housing.

Qualifying spouses and surviving spouses may also receive benefits under Clause 22C.

Qualifying surviving spouses of service members or veterans whose death resulted from an injury or illness sustained during active-duty service and documented by the VA or an armed-services branch, or who are missing in action with a presumptive finding of death resulting from active-duty service. The surviving spouse must have been domiciled in Massachusetts for two consecutive years before filing, unless the deceased met the six-month pre-service domicile requirement or an applicable one-year local option applies. This exemption ends upon death or remarriage.

Qualifying veterans with service-connected paraplegia or a 100% disability rating for service-connected blindness. Qualifying spouses and surviving spouses may also receive the exemption.

Only If Locally Adopted: Qualifying surviving parents or guardians of service members or veterans who meet the active-duty-related death or missing-in-action conditions. The parent or guardian must have been domiciled in Massachusetts for five consecutive years before filing, or the service member must have been domiciled here for at least six months before entering service.

If your child support payments are deducted from your civilian paycheck, CSE can help you transfer that income withholding order to your military pay.

If you’re transitioning to active duty, you may make less money than you did as a civilian. CSE can help you ask the court to modify your child support payments. Keep in mind that only the court can decide what your child support order should be.

Depending on your situation, CSE may be able to let you pay less past-due child support or set up a payment agreement.

• You may receive needs-based benefits like MassVets Financial Benefits (Chapter 115). CSE can work with you to set up a payment agreement for past-due child support so you can keep receiving your benefits and avoid penalties.

• You may be required to obtain a valid passport prior to deployment. The U.S. State Department will refuse to issue or renew passports to parents who owe $2,500+ in past-due child support. CSE can discuss payment options so that you can obtain your passport.

If you owe interest or penalties on past-due child support, CSE may be able to help reduce or remove the charges.

If you provide health insurance for your children, your private insurance coverage will end if you are called to active duty. However, you may enroll your children in TRICARE. CSE can assist you with this enrollment if you will no longer be maintaining other health insurance coverage.

Dedicated Veteran Service Representatives are available throughout the MassHire Career Center system of employment, training, and placement services, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans Employment & Training Service (DOL VETS).

Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program specialists (DVOPs) are located at MassHire Career Centers throughout the state.

• DVOPs develop job and training opportunities for veterans with service-connected disabilities and provide direct services to help veterans compete in the job market.

• DVOPs promote community and employer support for job and training opportunities, including apprenticeships and on-the-job training, by working with the VA, DoD, employers, and veterans’ and community organizations.

• DVOPs act as case managers for veterans enrolled in VA’s vocational rehabilitation and employment program and assist veterans with disabilities and their employers, providing follow up services to support their retention once employed.

The VWIP grant, awarded to the Department of Workforce Development and Division of Career Services, provides funding for short-term training (less than 48 weeks) for eligible veterans, leading to meaningful employment.

Amounts vary based on eligibility for other funding sources, generally ranging from $1,200 to $5,000. Grants can be combined with other veteran financial benefits (GI Bill, Chapter 115, etc). Contact your local MassHire Career Center’s Veterans Services Representative to apply.

Massachusetts veterans who are not eligible to receive vocational rehabilitation and employment services through the VA because their disability is not service-connected may be eligible for MassAbility programs available to all eligible residents with impairments presenting large barriers to employment.

MassAbility’s Vocational Rehabilitation Program helps job seekers with with physical, cognitive, intellectual or mental health conditions obtain and maintain a job and manage the workplace. To be eligible for VR, individuals must live in Massachusetts and be eligible to work in the US. You can apply for VR services online or contact the VR Office in your area.

Individuals must want to work and need VR services to train, find, or keep a job; you may also benefit from VR if you are unemployed or underemployed. Eligibility information is gathered through current schools, physicians, therapists, hospital and other medical records, self report, Social Security Administration, and psychological or neurological evaluation.

Massachusetts veterans who are not eligible to receive community living services through the VA’s vocational rehabilitation program because their disability is not service-connected may be eligible for MassAbility programs designed to help people with disabilities live in the community.

MassAbility’s Community Living Program supports the operation of Independent Living Centers and offers Home Care Assistance to disabled adults under age 60, Home Modification Loans, Adult Supportive Living, Assistive Technology, and services focused on brain injuries.

MassAbility can help people with disabilities understand their benefits and how they can work and still receive benefits to reach their goals for financial independence. People with disabilities can get information from their local Vocational Rehabilitation Office or Project IMPACT.

MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS) is 100% funded by the Social Security Administration. DDS Disability Examiners and medical consultants determine eligibility of Massachusetts applicants for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

DDS expedites Military Casualty and Wounded Warrior cases. Service member and veterans whose military casualty resulted in their physical or mental impairment may have their claims expedited if it occurred while on active duty status in the military on or after October 1, 2001 (regardless of how/where it occurred).

Massachusetts offers a tuition waiver to all veterans and active duty service members who are permanent and legal residents of Massachusetts. Waivers can be used at any Massachusetts state or community college or University campus.

To apply, students must present documentation of eligibility to the institution’s Veterans Certifying Official. Contact the institution you are attending or plan to attend for more information, or contact the Office of Student Financial Assistance at (617) 391-6070.

The Massachusetts National Guard Education Assistance Program offers a 100% tuition and fee waiver to active members attending a state college, university, or community college program (assistance can continue as long as you are good academic standing for up to 130 semester hours). To apply, you must request a Certificate of Eligibility every 30 credits.

Massachusetts National Guard soldiers taking a course or program at a regionally or nationally accredited, public or private college, university, vocational, technical or trade school located inside or outside of Massachusetts can also receive up to $4,500 per year through the Federal Tuition Assistance program.

Contact the Massachusetts National Guard Education Office to request a Certificate of Eligibility or for more information about the programs.

The Yellow Ribbon Program can help you pay for higher out-of-state, private school, foreign school, or graduate school tuition and fees that the Post-9/11 GI Bill doesn’t cover. Each participating school decides the amount of support they can offer. Beneficiaries can identify schools participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program in Massachusetts here.

MassReconnect, led by the Department of Higher Education in partnership with Massachusetts’ public community colleges, is making higher education more affordable and accessible to students across the Commonwealth. MassReconnect is a new program that can help you earn a degree or certificate for free. To be eligible, Massachusetts residents must:

• be at least 25 years of age or older as of the first day of classes;

• have been a resident of the Commonwealth for at least one year as of the start of the enrollment term; and

• have not previously received an associate or bachelor’s degree or the equivalent.

If you meet these requirements, MassReconnect will pay for all your tuition and fees and will provide you with an allowance to cover your books and supplies. All you have to do is apply to your local community college and complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). Awards will be made directly by the community colleges at the point of enrollment throughout the academic year.

The MASSGrant and MASSGrant Plus programs are funded by the state Legislature and provide need-based financial assistance to undergraduate students who reside in Massachusetts. Follow the links above to review the requirements for the MASSGrant programs to determine if you qualify for assistance.

• Students must be enrolled in and pursuing a program of higher education in any approved public or independent college, university, school of nursing or any other approved institution.

• Full time students attending Massachusetts four-year public colleges and universities, and full-time and part-time students attending Massachusetts public community colleges may be eligible for additional funding to help with the cost of tuition, fees and books.

The Veterans Upward Bound Program hosted by Suffolk University is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. The program helps eligible veterans in Massachusetts who would like to attend any institution of higher learning to prepare for college and their careers.

Most post-secondary institutions require incoming students to take an assessment exam; VUB offers a rigorous academic program to prepare students for these assessments. VUB also provides college and career advising, financial planning, and application assistance.

The Massachusetts Public Service Grant was established for students who have experienced the loss of a parent and/or spouse who is killed or missing in the line of public service duty in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Public Service Grant Program is the only scholarship program not based on demonstrated financial need, but rather entitlement.

To be eligible for a Massachusetts Public Service Grant, at student must be able to provide the necessary documentation to evidence that they are:

• the child or widowed spouse of a Massachusetts Police Officer, Firefighter, or Corrections Officer who was killed or died from injuries received in the line of duty, including authorized training duty; or

• the child of a Prisoner of War Military Service Person Missing in Action in Southeast Asia whose wartime service was credited to the Commonwealth and was between February 1, 1955 and the termination of the Vietnam campaign; or

• the child of a Veteran whose service was credited to the Commonwealth and who was killed in action or died as a result of such service.

To receive the Massachusetts Public Service Grant, eligible students meeting the conditions above must also:

• be a permanent legal resident of Massachusetts for one year prior to the start of the academic year for which the scholarship is granted;

• be a U.S. Citizen or non-citizen eligible under Title IV regulations;

• have applied for financial aid, using the standard FAFSA;

• not be in default of any federal or state Student Loans for attendance at any institution or owe a refund for any previous financial aid received;

• be enrolled full time (at least 12 credits or its equivalent) in a certificate, associate’s or bachelor’s degree program at an a public or independent college or university in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts which is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and is authorized by the Commonwealth to offer undergraduate degree programs;

• not have received a prior bachelor’s degree or its equivalent; and

• be maintaining satisfactory academic progress in accordance with institutional and federal standards.

The Board of Higher Education voted unanimously in 2013 to approve the VALOR Act Academic Credit Evaluation Policy requiring each public institution of higher education to develop a set of policies and procedures governing the evaluation of a students’ military occupations, training, coursework, and experience to determine whether academic credit shall be awarded.

The policy requires institutions to designate a single point of contact for student veterans about the policy who will also make determinations concerning the award of academic credits under the policy. The policy provides for consistent application by all Massachusetts public higher education institutions to the greatest extent possible. Click here to view the policies of each institution.

Former United American Veterans Camp in Taunton (p. 49)
Land conveyed to United American Veterans in 1953 for a children’s recreational camp carried a use restriction and reverter clause omitted from later deeds. After legislation authorized releasing those restrictions, the OIG reviewed the property appraisal and approved its methodology, finding the valuation adequately supported.

In its letter on House 4298, the OIG urged legislators to place the Homes’ superintendents under a cabinet-level DVS Secretary, limit boards and councils to advisory roles, and strengthen clinical oversight. It also recommended independent complaint channels, confidentiality protections, and monthly updates on implementing electronic medical records.

House 4441 An Act Relative to the Governance, Structure and Care of Veterans at the Commonwealth’s Veterans’ Homes

IG Cunha urged lawmakers to strengthen House 4441 and Senate 2582 to promote effective management of the Soldiers’ Homes and enhance the superintendents’ direct accountability.

The OIG’s letter to the conference committee supported cabinet-level veterans’ leadership, clearer superintendent accountability, independent complaint reporting, and DPH inspections. It urged conferees to give DPH enforcement authority, strengthen protections for the Office of the Veteran Advocate, and require monthly updates on electronic medical records.

The OIG’s investigation of Holyoke Soldiers’ Home found extensive management and oversight failures before the pandemic, including ineffective supervision of Superintendent Bennett Walsh and inadequate responses to employee complaints. It recommended clearer accountability, qualified leadership, stronger clinical oversight, and independent complaint channels. The investigation did not examine the COVID-19 outbreak.

Holyoke Soldiers’ Home Leadership Review (p. 28)
The OIG reviewed leadership, management, and oversight at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home from May 2016 through February 2020. Its report, released April 29, 2022, identified management shortcomings and concerns about supervision of former Superintendent Bennett Walsh, and recommended lasting improvements.

Health, Safety, and Infection-Control Complaints (p. 28)
The OIG responded to complaints about clinical care, infection control, and management at the Holyoke and Chelsea Soldiers’ Homes. It referred health and safety concerns to DPH while protecting complainants’ confidentiality. DPH agreed to provide clinical oversight voluntarily, although it had no statutory mandate to do so.

Proposed Oversight and Complaint-Reporting Reforms (p. 28)
The OIG recommended stronger clinical oversight, governance, and management of the Soldiers’ Homes, an ombudsperson and hotline for complaints, and a funded DPH oversight mandate. Many recommendations appeared in proposed legislation, but the bills remained pending when the annual report was published.

Fiscal practices at the Soldiers Home in Holyoke and by its Board of Trustees

The OIG found that the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home and its Board of Trustees had poor governance and management of funds derived from donations, canteen income, proceeds from lottery sales and veterans’ personal needs and had few internal controls and no segregation of duties relating to these funds.

In his letter regarding Chelsea Soldiers’ Home, IG Shapiro criticized the lack of significant corrective action following EOHHS investigations documenting unacceptable living conditions, inadequate care, and leadership failures. He urged Secretary Marylou Sudders to provide her successor with a complete, transparent briefing and pledged continued oversight.

Testimony of Inspector General Jeffrey S. Shapiro Regarding the FY 2024 Office Budget Before the House and Senate Committees on Ways & Means

Inspector General Jeffrey S. Shapiro testified before members of the Senate and House Committees on Ways & Means regarding the Office of the Inspector General’s FY24 budget request, which outlines major initiatives including right sizing staffing levels, providing oversight of the new Department of Veterans’ Services and a focus on equitable and expanded training.

Holyoke Soldiers’ Home Management (p. 23)
The OIG’s April 2022 report examined Holyoke Soldiers’ Home leadership, management, and oversight from May 2016 through February 2020. It identified critical management shortcomings, reiterated concerns raised by DVS and EOHHS, and recommended stronger supervision, governance, and accountability.

Fiscal Controls at Holyoke Soldiers’ Home (p. 23)
The OIG found that the Home and its Board lacked authority to retain, spend, or invest donations and had weak fiscal controls without segregation of duties. It recommended obtaining legislative authority, following public finance and procurement laws, and strengthening transparency, accountability, and internal controls.

Veterans’ Services and Homes Governance Reforms (pp. 23–24)
Chapter 144 adopted many OIG recommendations, elevating veterans’ services to a cabinet-level office and clarifying authority over the Homes’ superintendents. It also reconfigured the boards, required DPH inspections, and created the Office of the Veteran Advocate. The OIG monitored implementation with EOHHS and DVS.

Chelsea Soldiers’ Home Leadership and Conditions (p. 24)
After reviewing EOHHS investigations identifying inadequate conditions for veterans and leadership failures, the OIG questioned EOHHS’s response. Its January 3, 2023 letter urged Secretary Marylou Sudders to brief the incoming Healey administration fully and transparently about the investigations and continuing problems at Chelsea Soldiers’ Home.

Review of Veterans’ Homes Management (p. 27)

The OIG recommended that EOVS establish quality leadership at the Homes, partner with the DPH to improve quality of care at the Homes, establish an EOVS ombudsperson program, implement an EMR system for both Homes, and manage donations to the Homes as public funds. EOVS hired two ombudspersons. It also increased its collaboration with DPH. EOVS is in the process of implementing an EMR system for both Homes. EOVS is working to manage the oversight and transparency of the funds donated to the Homes.

Reconciliation of Data on COVID-Related Veteran Deaths (p. 28)

BPI staff worked with DPH epidemiologists to reconcile Holyoke’s data reporting of COVID-related veteran deaths. DPH determined that Holyoke had failed to document or publicly report six COVID-related veteran deaths. The OIG identified a lack of protocols for data reporting, quality control and quality management at Holyoke as factors that led to the inaccurate reporting. DPH informed the OIG that it is working with Holyoke to resolve factors that led to the inaccurate reporting.

Timekeeping at the Veterans’ Homes (p. 28)

The OIG identified employees who received more than 24 hours of overtime in one calendar day, earned more than their annual salaries in overtime, earned premium overtime before earning regular overtime, used standby time inconsistently, and submitted time for more than 100 days in a row. EOVS reviewed this information and agreed to follow up with the Homes’ management teams about specific employee issues and improving their timekeeping and monitoring practices.

Veterans’ Homes Licensing and Certification (p. 31)
Secretary Jon Santiago reported in December 2024 that both Veterans’ Homes had obtained DPH licenses as long-term care providers. Both Homes also received federal certification to participate in Medicare and Medicaid, as required by state law.

Internal Processes and Fiscal Controls (p. 31)
By the end of 2024, EOVS had implemented most of the OIG’s recommendations concerning internal processes and fiscal controls at both Veterans’ Homes. The OIG reported that these changes would improve transparency and accountability and will continue monitoring the outstanding recommendations.

Veterans’ Homes Ombudsperson Program (p. 31)
The OIG reviewed EOVS’s ombudsperson program in 2024 and provided feedback on its policies and processes. This followed earlier recommendations for establishing the program as part of broader improvements to management and oversight at the Veterans’ Homes.

Electronic Medical Records at the Veterans’ Homes (p. 31)
An electronic medical records system went live at both Veterans’ Homes in 2024 after several unsuccessful procurement efforts and a contract award in 2022. The OIG shared findings from federal VA inspector general reviews to help EOVS reduce the risk of additional costs and delays.

Modernizing Municipal Veterans’ Services (p. 35)
The OIG examined whether municipal delivery of veterans’ services provides quality services cost-effectively. It concluded that the system would benefit from modernization and best practices in how, when, and where services are delivered to better meet veterans’ needs while making practical and financial sense for municipalities.

Holyoke Trust Funds and Veterans’ Homes Oversight (p. 36)
The OIG tracked the transfer of Holyoke Veterans Home trust funds to the Commonwealth, monitored construction of the new Home, and reviewed EOVS’s electronic medical records procurement for both Homes.

The 2014 Audit of DVS covered July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2013. The purpose of the audit was to review and assess the outreach activities and efforts of DVS and local veterans’ agents and to evaluate the performance measures and results concerning outreach. The audit was terminated because:

• DVS had no formal definition of the parameters of its outreach strategy and efforts in each program; and

• DVS had no reliable performance data to review to determine whether outreach efforts were achieving desired outcomes.

The 2017 Audit of DVS covered July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2016. The purpose of the audit was to examine activities related to outreach. The audit found opportunities for DVS to use available data and collect statistical information to improve its program administration.

• DVS was using census data to estimate the overall number of veterans living in Massachusetts, but not the number of veterans in each city or town. DVS officials reported not being aware that the state Elections Division has information on veterans living in each community; DVS may obtain lists of veterans in each community and provide them to veterans’ agents.

• Veterans eligible to receive health insurance through MassHealth are similar to those eligible to receive Chapter 115 benefits. MassHealth asks recipients if they are veterans. A list of 13,679 veterans receiving MassHealth was provided to DVS during the audit; only 1,460 were receiving Chapter 115 benefits and 7,938 of remaining veterans were found likely eligible.

• DVS didn’t require staff or local veterans’ agents to maintain statistical information on veterans’ served and not served, or collect and analyze other information in order to assess the effectiveness of DVS programs and support outreach efforts (for example, when DVS provides homeless veterans with supports or veterans’ agents visit housing complexes to reach out to elderly residents).

• The audit found DVS wasn’t collaborating with other state agencies that veterans receive benefits from to support direct outreach to veterans potentially eligible for Chapter 115.

The overall lack of data limits the potential to evaluate program effectiveness and improve outreach.

The most recent 2022 Audit of the Department of Veterans Services covering July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2021 found DVS wasn’t ensuring its Women Veterans’ Network achieved its intended purpose (identifying women veterans and informing them about benefits).

• DVS maintained a list of only 1,545 women veterans, representing around 6% of the 25,000 women veterans estimated to live in Massachusetts. 

• The audit recommended establishing policies and procedures, including a monitoring component, for WVN’s operations to ensure that all required activities are conducted and documented.

• The 2022 Audit also found DVS didn’t have 11 members appointed to its Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. DVS provided a list of five advisory committee members, including one who had not been a member since 2010. 

DVS worked with the Governor’s Office and Executive Office of Health and Human Services to identify candidates and made the appointments to the Committee. As of June 2022, there were 13 commissioners appointed.

Update: On November 6, 2023, Governor Healey swore in members of the Governor’s Advisory Committee on Women Veterans, which includes 17 members appointed to ensure women veterans’ needs and rights a prioritized and promoted within Massachusetts.  

The Veterans' Home at Holyoke and Chelsea (January 2026): State Auditor Diana DiZoglio issued a sweeping audit reviewing the Veterans' Home at Holyoke (covering 2020–2023) and the Veterans' Home at Chelsea (covering 2021–2023). The audits uncovered significant violations of state regulations, gaps in emergency preparedness, and critical oversight failures regarding patient check-ins and the implementation of electronic medical records. The State Auditor’s Office requested access to interview notes and other records that contributed to the development of the Pearlstein Report, which were withheld. The State Auditor’s Office did examine other safety-related issues, but it was prevented from conducting its audit as intended.

• OVA Annual Report (FY2024)

• OVA Special Report: Case # 2024-09-003

• OVA Investigative Report - Case # 2024-11-005

• OVA Report: Understanding Massachusetts’ Municipal Veterans Service Officer (FY2025) | This report examined responsibilities, training, staffing, and working conditions. It identified expanding workloads, vacancies, uneven compensation, accreditation barriers, and geographic and office-hour access gaps. The report provides a foundation for further analysis and collaboration to strengthen local services for veterans and their families.

• OVA Annual Report (FY2025)

• OVA Summary Letter: Gabriel House Fire Veteran Support (May 7, 2026) | This letter serves as a summary of the OVA’s involvement following the July 13, 2025, fatal fire at Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility in Fall River, outlining both the basis for our engagement and the actions taken to support the affected veterans and their families.

• OVA Annual Report (FY2026)

• 123 CMR 2: Investigations, inspections, audits, and reviews

• 1/23/2024 | OVA HERO Act Written Testimony

• 3/5/2024 | OVA FY2025 Budget Request

• 10/25/2024 | OVA Comments on Medical & Psychiatric Care Regulation Amendments

• 12/12/2024 | OVA Comments on Domestic Relations Procedure Amendments

• 12/18/2024 | OVA Comments to EOVS on Changes to 108 CMR 12.00

• 3/25/2025 | OVA FY2026 Budget Request

• 7/22/2025 | OVA Oral Testimony in Support of H.4088

• 7/22/2025 | OVA Oral Testimony in support of H.3872 & S.2466

• 9/30/2025 | OVA Written Testimony in Support of & S.2467 & H.3871

• 3/18/2026 | OVA FY2027 Budget Request

• Bob Notch, Veteran Advocate

• Scott Pitta, Chief of Staff

• Anthony Langone Jr., Communications Specialist

• Nathan Dufault, Veterans Safety Advisor

• Elliott Pawlak, Business Intelligence Officer

• Eve Elliott, General Counsel

• Danielle Dupont, Financial & Administrative Officer

Regional Liaisons establish and maintain relationships with local, state and federal agencies; aid and coordinate with municipal veterans service agents/officers, and liaison with all state and federal agencies serving the veteran community.

• Clifford Coy, Northeast Region Liaison

• Truc DeCoste, Southeast Region Liaison

• Christian DiLuzio, Western Region Liaison

• Paul Furbush, Central Region Liaison

The Policy and Research Officer researches and reviews current and proposed legislation, executive agency policies and practices, and best practices, and identifies actions for improvement.

• VACANT

Tables for period of military service, service-connected disability, veteran status by educational attainment, age by veteran status and employment, and median income by sex and veteran status are available with 2020–2024 ACS 5-year estimates. Age by sex and veteran status is also available. These estimates combine five years of responses and are available for the state, counties, and cities and towns. The links open Massachusetts; use the geography menu to add counties or communities.

The same subjects are available with 2024 ACS 1-year estimates for Massachusetts and other geographies meeting the survey’s population threshold: age by sex and veteran status, period of military service, service-connected disability, veteran status by educational attainment, age by veteran status and employment, and median income by sex and veteran status. One-year estimates describe a single year; five-year estimates provide larger samples for smaller populations. Census guidance on choosing estimates explains the differences.

Age by sex and veteran status is also available with racial and Hispanic-origin iterations:

• 2020–2024 5-year estimates: White alone, Black or African American alone, American Indian or Alaska Native alone, Asian alone, Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone, some other race alone, two or more races, White alone, not Hispanic or Latino, and Hispanic or Latino.

• 2024 1-year estimates: White alone, Black or African American alone, Asian alone, some other race alone, two or more races, White alone, not Hispanic or Latino, and Hispanic or Latino.

For age, disability, veteran status, and poverty status, use the 2020–2024 5-year table or the more detailed 2024 1-year table. The tables use different age groupings, so compare matching categories.

For sex by age by employment status, including the Armed Forces, use the 2020–2024 5-year table or the 2024 1-year table. A more detailed 2024 1-year table is also available. These tables include people serving in the Armed Forces, who are distinct from the civilian veteran population.

Explore additional tables, definitions, and interactive maps on Census Reporter’s Military & Veterans page.