Social Assistance Program

Assisting Indigenous Native American Families Across Massachusetts with a focus on families & Elders North of Boston.

The Social Assistance Program was created to provide timely and compassionate support to Indigenous Native Americans living in marginalized communities throughout the Commonwealth. This initiative is a lifeline for those experiencing temporary financial hardship and lacking access to a reliable safety net.

This program is designed to uplift and assist:

• Native families navigating economic instability

• Our respected Elders facing age-related challenges

• Individuals living with disabilities

• Community members managing chronic illness

• Other vulnerable Native residents at high risk for unmet basic needs

These individuals often face compounded socio-economic disparities, limited access to critical resources, and systemic barriers that make everyday survival a struggle.

MCNAA provides direct assistance to help with essential needs, including:

• Heating support during harsh New England winters, ensuring families can maintain safe, warm homes when seasonal costs become overwhelming.

• Food security, helping Native families access nutritious meals through grocery store gift cards, emergency food bags, referrals to local food banks and farm projects, partnerships with Indigenous fishermen and hunters, and community‑led food drives.

• Essential household items, including hygiene products, sanitation supplies, clothing, cleaning products, and other daily necessities that support health, stability, and dignity.

This support is not just financial—it’s a gesture of dignity and care for those who need it most.

Assistance is offered:

• During periods of temporary hardship

• Throughout the winter months, when needs are most acute

• In emergency situations that threaten health or well-being

MCNAA pays heat bills directly to service providers or vendors on behalf of the applicant, ensuring timely and secure delivery of funds.

Support is dependent on available funding, which is often limited, and is distributed on a first‑come, first‑served basis to ensure timely response during periods of high need.

If you are a Native American residing in Massachusetts and find yourself in need of help with any of the services listed above, please reach out to MCNAA. If funding is available, you will be provided with the necessary paperwork to begin the application process.

Email us at: mcnaa@aol.com