Alex R. Arriaga, Veterans' Services Officer/Director
The Veterans' Services Division provides support to residents of Worcester who are veterans, currently serving members of the military and their families. In conjunction with the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services, the City of Worcester takes applications and disperses veterans' benefits (also known as "Chapter 115 Benefits") enacted through Chapter 115 of the Massachusetts General Law. Support services vary based on individual circumstances but may include financial aid, reimbursement of medical costs and referral services for a variety of issues such as housing, health care, employment, education and other safety net programs.
The Veterans' Services Division assists clients in finding more permanent solutions to meet their needs by referring veterans and dependents to a variety of social service agencies and programs. Individuals found ineligible for Chapter 115 benefits can also receive these referral services. All individuals, regardless of discharge status, time in the service, branch of service, etc. can utilize this office for questions and concerns related to veterans' benefits, both state and federal. Please use the appropriate links on this webpage to get information on a variety of services, local organizations and frequently asked questions.
Under Massachusetts General Laws M.G.L. Chapter 115, the Commonwealth provides a needs-based means tested program of financial and medical assistance for indigent veterans and their dependents. Qualifying veterans and their dependents receive necessary financial assistance for food, shelter, clothing, fuel and medical care in accordance with a formula which takes into account the number of dependents and income from all sources. Eligible dependents of deceased veterans are provided with the same benefits as if the veteran were still living.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced that West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitos for a second time collected in a trap on the western side of the Grafton Hill neighborhood. The Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project CMMCP has scheduled a truck-mounted pesticide application to the designated area for after sunset on Thursday, Sept. 21, weather permitting.
Posted: Wednesday 09/20/23
The City of Worcester’s Cultural Development Division announced Thursday the search for the City’s next Youth Poet Laureate.
Posted: Thursday 09/14/23
The City of Worcester’s Housing Development Division Wednesday launched its Downpayment Assistance Program and Affordable Housing Preservation Program.
Posted: Wednesday 09/13/23
More Announcements...
The Division of Public Health is hosting a new art show open to all Worcester middle and high school students!...
Posted: Tuesday 10/03/23 10:27 AM
Congratulations to Medical Director Dr. Michael Hirsh for having his article published in American Journal of Medicine!...
Posted: Monday 10/02/23 2:02 PM
Tomorrow!...
Posted: Friday 09/29/23 2:12 PM
The updated COVID-19 vaccine is now available and recommended for everyone ages 6 months and up....
Posted: Thursday 09/28/23 10:18 AM
More News...
No, we are not part of the VA. We work with the VA, state agencies and many other resources to assist the City of Worcester's Veterans and their families access needed benefits.
If you entered the service from Massachusetts, your record may be in the MRO database, which is accessible to any Veterans' Services Officer (VSO). To inquire about your record, please request an appointment through the portal and include your full name, branch of service and date of birth, and staff will reach out to you. *Please do not put your social security number in the request; staff will confirm all identifying information over the phone.*
If you entered the service from outside of Massachusetts, your records can be requested through The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) Website.
Veterans' Services
City Hall Room 101
455 Main Street
Worcester, MA 01608
Phone: 508-799-1041
Fax: 508-799-1018
Email Us
Office Hours:
Monday, Tuesday,
Thursday & Friday
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Wednesday
8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
12 p.m. - 5 p.m. by appointment
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