Dr. Joe Robinson, 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 City of Worcester is seeking qualified nonprofit organizations to partner in a joint application for the RIZE Foundation's grantmaking opportunity, focused on addressing the opioid overdose crisis. The City will fund up to the maximum match amount of $50,000 to 10 organizations. This initiative will leverage best practices and align with the Massachusetts State Sub-Division Agreement for Statewide Opioid Settlements to expand interventions proven to save lives.
Total Available City Match Funding: $50,000 per project.
Number of Partner Organizations: Up to 10.
Eligible Applicants: Nonprofit organizations based in Worcester or serving the City of Worcester.
Project Focus Areas: Proposed projects must address one or more of the following areas:
Submission Deadline: All proposals must be received by November 1, 2024, to arriagaa@worcesterma.gov.
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Alex Arriaga
Deputy Commissioner
Health & Human Services Department
508-799-8486 x31330
The City of Worcester looks forward to partnering with community organizations committed to addressing the opioid crisis and building a healthier, safer community for all.
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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 - Friday
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
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