Access Homelessness
Wellspring’s Homelessness Prevention Line: (978) 281-3221 Ext 311.
This line is monitored Monday – Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Increased demand for family shelter in Massachusetts means that traditional shelters are reaching capacity. For the first time ever a cap on enrollment at 7,500 families has resulted in a waitlist for emergency shelter.
Our publicly available Homelessness Prevention Line is a resource for any North Shore family seeking advice to manage a current housing crisis. Our staff provides referrals and access through advocacy for state sponsored programs and resources, providing ongoing services over the course of 1-2 years to help you make plans for the future. Utilizing our community partnerships, we provide access to everything from clothing and diapers to socks, underwear and sneakers, cutting down out of pocket expenses and promoting long-term stability.
What can I expect if I call Wellspring’s Homelessness Prevention Line?
Wellspring’s highly knowledgeable team will walk you through a phone intake to understand your particular situation and to develop the best plan for next steps. If English is not your preferred language, our experienced staff will set up a call in your preferred language.
What is the Homelessness Prevention Fund?
Wellspring is able to provide one-time payments (lifelines) to Cape Ann residents and participants of our programs. These one-time grants help you overcome barriers to continue employment and avoid eviction. Call the Homelessness Prevention Line to access this support.
What are the eligibility requirements?
- Resident of Cape Ann (Manchester, Gloucester, Ipswich, Rockport, Magnolia, Essex) or currently enrolled in a Wellspring House Program or Stabilization Program.
- Head of household must have full legal custody of at least 1 child under the age of 18.
- Not residing in a subsidized home (i.e. State/Federal Housing or MRVP/ Section 8 vouchers)
- This one- time financial assistance must result in stabilizing the family long-term.
The Homelessness Prevention Fund helps families stay in their homes by covering a one-time cost such as one month’s rent arrearage, utility bills, or car repairs, for example.
*If this criteria is not met during the screening process, we will refer and share information regarding access to other community resources and other sources of funding, which may be beneficial to you and your family.
