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The Merrimackerel

Community resources for Andover

Where to turn for help around the Merrimack Valley, from food pantries and fuel assistance to bus routes, libraries and town halls, along with the state and federal programs residents can apply for. Each listing links to the organization that runs it.

In an emergency, call 911. For a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988. For help finding local services at any hour, dial 2-1-1.

Crisis and help lines

Free, confidential lines you can call, text or chat at any hour.

  • Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center

    Merrimack Valley

    Free, confidential help for adults and children affected by domestic violence, with a 24-hour hotline.

    Phone: 978-388-1888

  • Samaritans of Merrimack Valley

    Merrimack Valley

    A volunteer crisis helpline, support groups for people who lost someone to suicide, and suicide prevention trainings, run by Family Services of the Merrimack Valley.

    Address: 430 North Canal Street, Lawrence

    Phone: 978-327-6671

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • YWCA sexual assault program

    Merrimack Valley

    Help for survivors of sexual assault and their supporters, including a 24-hour confidential hotline, advocacy and support groups.

    Phone: 877-509-9922

  • Mass 211

    Statewide

    A free, confidential line, open 24 hours, that connects people with local help for housing, food, utilities, health care, child care and more, with interpreters available.

    Phone: 2-1-1

  • Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line

    Statewide

    Free help finding mental health and substance use treatment, by phone, text or online chat at any hour. Insurance is not required.

    Phone: 833-773-2445

  • NAMI Massachusetts COMPASS helpline

    Statewide

    The statewide NAMI organization, which runs the COMPASS mental health resource helpline and free education courses for families.

    Phone: 617-580-8541

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • SafeLink domestic violence hotline

    Statewide

    A statewide 24-hour hotline that connects people experiencing intimate partner violence with shelters and local programs.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

    Nationwide

    Free, confidential support around the clock for anyone in emotional distress or a mental health or substance use crisis. Call or text 988, or chat online. Veterans can press 1.

    Phone: 988

Food

Groceries, meals and help applying for food benefits.

  • Ballardvale United Church community fridge and Village Food Hub

    Andover, Lawrence and North Andover

    A community fridge and food locker open at all hours. The church fridge is open to anyone; the Village Food Hub is for residents of Andover, Lawrence and North Andover.

    Address: 23 Clark Road, Andover

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Food resources for Andover residents

    Andover

    A town list of local food help, including the Village Food Hub community pantry and a mobile pantry at the Robb Center.

  • Neighbors In Need food pantry and mobile markets

    Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    Free mobile food markets each week in neighborhoods around Greater Lawrence.

    Address: 60 Island Street, Lawrence

    Phone: 978-685-8321

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • People's Food Pantry

    Andover and North Andover

    A volunteer-run food pantry at North Parish Church in North Andover that gives out groceries to people in the Merrimack Valley. No ID is required.

  • AgeSpan Mobile Market

    Merrimack Valley

    Free monthly markets with fresh produce and shelf-stable food. The Lawrence market is open to all ages, and the Haverhill market is for enrolled residents 60 and older or adults with disabilities.

  • Essex County Pet Pantry

    Merrimack Valley

    A volunteer-run pantry that gives pet food, litter and basic supplies to Essex County families in financial hardship.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • MSPCA pet food pantry list

    Statewide

    A list of food pantries around the state that also give out pet food.

  • Project Bread FoodSource Hotline

    Statewide

    A statewide hotline that helps people apply for SNAP and find food pantries, meal programs and free meals for children. Call or text; counselors speak many languages.

    Phone: 1-800-645-8333

  • SNAP (formerly food stamps)

    Statewide

    Monthly benefits for buying groceries, run in Massachusetts by the Department of Transitional Assistance. Apply online at DTA Connect, by phone or at a DTA office.

    Phone: 877-382-2363

  • WIC nutrition program

    Statewide

    Healthy food, nutrition advice and breastfeeding support for pregnant people, new parents, infants and children under 5.

    Phone: 800-942-1007

Housing and shelter

Emergency shelter and help keeping a home.

  • Andover Housing Authority

    Andover

    Runs state and federal public housing and housing choice vouchers for eligible low-income, older and disabled residents.

    Phone: 978-475-2365

  • Merrimack Valley Habitat for Humanity

    Merrimack Valley

    Builds affordable homes for first-time buyers with volunteer crews, including a program for veterans.

    Address: 60 Island Street, Lawrence

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Mill Cities Community Investments

    Merrimack Valley

    A community lender that makes loans for homes, small businesses and property development, with education and counseling.

    Address: 50 Island Street, Lawrence

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Mission of Deeds

    Merrimack Valley

    A furniture bank in Reading that gives free beds, furniture and household items to people referred by a helping agency. Clients bring their own transportation.

    Address: 6 Chapin Avenue, Reading

    Phone: 781-944-9797

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Project Home Again

    Merrimack Valley

    Gives free furniture, household goods and small appliances to low-income families referred by social workers.

    Address: 123 Tewksbury Street, Andover

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • YWCA emergency domestic violence shelter

    Merrimack Valley

    Confidential emergency shelter for people fleeing domestic violence.

  • YWCA OASIS transitional housing

    Merrimack Valley

    Transitional housing for survivors of domestic violence.

  • RAFT emergency housing help

    Statewide

    State help for renters and homeowners at risk of losing their housing, which can cover back rent, mortgage or utility costs. Income limits apply.

Heating and utilities

Help with heating, electric, phone and internet bills.

  • Greater Lawrence Community Action Council

    Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    The local fuel assistance agency for Lawrence, Methuen, Andover and North Andover, also offering weatherization, heating system repairs and other family programs.

  • Home heating assistance (LIHEAP)

    Statewide

    Help paying winter heating bills for income-eligible homeowners and renters, including when heat is included in the rent. Applying is free and goes through the local agency for your town.

  • Mass Save income-eligible programs

    Statewide

    No-cost home energy assessments, insulation and heating or appliance upgrades for income-eligible households, with discounts for others.

  • Lifeline phone and internet discount

    Nationwide

    A federal monthly discount on phone or internet service for households with low incomes or that take part in programs such as SNAP or Medicaid.

Health care

Health insurance and community health centers.

  • Lawrence Community Behavioral Health Center

    Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    The state-designated community behavioral health center for Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover, offering mental health and substance use services.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Massachusetts Health Connector

    Statewide

    The state's health insurance marketplace, where you can compare plans and see whether you qualify for help paying premiums.

    Phone: 877-623-6765

  • MassHealth

    Statewide

    Free or low-cost health coverage for eligible Massachusetts residents. You can apply at any time of year.

    Phone: 800-841-2900

  • Syringe service program locator

    Statewide

    A state map of syringe service programs, which offer free sterile supplies, safe disposal and links to testing and naloxone (Narcan).

  • Medicare

    Nationwide

    The official site for Medicare, the federal health insurance for people 65 and older and some younger people with disabilities.

Getting around

Buses, trains and the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

  • MBTA Haverhill Line

    Andover, Haverhill and Lawrence

    Commuter rail between Haverhill and Boston's North Station, stopping in Bradford, Lawrence, Andover and Ballardvale.

  • MeVa Transit

    Merrimack Valley

    The Merrimack Valley's regional bus system (formerly the MVRTA), with routes between the region's cities and towns and Ring & Ride door-to-door service in several towns.

  • Registry of Motor Vehicles

    Statewide

    Driver's licenses, IDs, vehicle registrations and many other RMV services, most of which can be done online.

Jobs, income and benefits

Job search help, training, unemployment and federal benefits.

  • International Institute of New England, Lowell

    Merrimack Valley

    Helps refugees resettle and offers job placement, English classes, case management and citizenship help. It is based in Lowell.

  • MassHire Merrimack Valley Career Center

    Merrimack Valley

    Free job search help, workshops, training programs and computers for job seekers, with its main office in Lawrence.

    Phone: 978-722-7000

  • Northern Essex Community College

    Merrimack Valley

    Degree and certificate programs, adult education and job training, with campuses in Haverhill and Lawrence.

  • Opportunity Works

    Merrimack Valley

    Day programs, job services and recreation for adults with developmental disabilities, based in Haverhill and Newburyport.

  • Unemployment benefits

    Statewide

    Apply to the Department of Unemployment Assistance if you lost work through no fault of your own.

    Phone: 877-626-6800

  • Social Security

    Nationwide

    Retirement, disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Apply and manage benefits online.

  • USAGov benefit finder

    Nationwide

    Answer a few questions to see federal benefits you may qualify for, from food and housing help to disability and survivor benefits.

Older adults

Services for people 60 and older and their caregivers.

  • Andover Council on Aging (The Robb Center)

    Andover

    The town's senior center, which runs programs and services for older residents.

    Phone: 978-623-8320

  • Andover Senior Center free tax preparation

    Andover

    AARP Tax-Aide volunteers prepare tax returns for free during tax season, by appointment through the senior center.

    Phone: 978-623-8320

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • AgeSpan

    Merrimack Valley

    The area agency on aging for the Merrimack Valley and North Shore (formerly Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley): Meals on Wheels, in-home care, caregiver support and advice.

    Phone: 800-892-0890

  • AgeSpan family caregiver support

    Merrimack Valley

    Support for people caring for an older relative or someone with dementia, including counseling, support groups, education and help paying for respite care. It also helps grandparents raising grandchildren.

  • AgeSpan Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers

    Merrimack Valley

    Volunteers deliver meals to homebound older adults and people with disabilities and check in on them. Drivers need a car and a background check.

    Phone: 978-651-3114

  • AgeSpan Mobile Market

    Merrimack Valley

    Free monthly markets with fresh produce and shelf-stable food. The Lawrence market is open to all ages, and the Haverhill market is for enrolled residents 60 and older or adults with disabilities.

  • Northeast Independent Living Program

    Merrimack Valley

    A center for independent living, run by and for people with disabilities, offering information, advocacy, skills training, peer counseling and help moving out of nursing homes.

    Phone: 978-687-4288

  • AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

    Nationwide

    Free tax preparation by IRS-certified volunteers, focused on people over 50 with low to moderate incomes. AARP membership is not required.

    Phone: 1-888-227-7669

Children and families

Child care and help for families with young children.

  • Merrimack Valley YMCA

    Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    A YMCA with branches in Andover and North Andover, Lawrence and Methuen offering child care, after-school programs, swim lessons and camps.

  • Neighbors In Need diaper pantry

    Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    Free diapers, formula and infant supplies for families in the Greater Lawrence area.

    Address: 60 Island Street, Suite 74B, Lawrence

    Phone: 978-685-8321

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Anchor of Hope Diaper Bank

    Merrimack Valley

    Collects diapers and gives them to families through partner nonprofits and social service agencies.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Community Giving Tree

    Merrimack Valley

    Collects children's clothing, baby equipment, diapers and other essentials and passes them to families through social workers at partner agencies. It is not open to walk-ins.

    Address: 572B Main Street, West Boxford; 60 Island Street, Lawrence

    Phone: 978-769-5056

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Essex Children's Advocacy Center

    Merrimack Valley

    Coordinates the response to reports of child abuse in Essex County and connects children and families with services.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Pregnancy Care Center of the Merrimack Valley

    Merrimack Valley

    A pregnancy center that an older listing says gave out maternity and baby clothing, diapers, toiletries and baby furniture.

    Address: 107 Merrimack Street, Haverhill

    Phone: 978-373-5700

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • YWCA child advocacy program

    Merrimack Valley

    Advocacy and crisis help for children affected by abuse and their families, reached through a 24-hour line.

    Phone: 877-509-9922

  • Child care financial assistance

    Statewide

    State help paying for child care and after-school programs for income-eligible families, through one statewide waitlist.

Veterans

Benefits and local help for veterans and their families.

  • Andover Veterans' Services

    Andover

    The town office that helps veterans and their families apply for state Chapter 115 aid, federal VA benefits and burial help.

  • Find your local Veterans Service Officer

    Statewide

    Every Massachusetts city and town has a veterans' service officer who helps veterans and their families apply for state and federal benefits, including financial help.

  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

    Nationwide

    Federal benefits for veterans, including health care, disability compensation, education and home loans.

City and town halls

Official websites for each community's government and services.

  • Town of Andover

    Andover

    The official town website: departments, meeting agendas, permits and local services.

Public libraries

Free library cards, books, computers and programs.

  • Memorial Hall Library

    Andover

    Andover's public library: books, digital media, programs, local history, computers and Wi-Fi.

  • Merrimack Valley Library Consortium

    Merrimack Valley

    The network of more than 35 area public libraries that share one catalog, so a card from your town's library works across the region.

Schools

Public school districts serving each community.

Parks and recreation

Town recreation programs, parks, fields and permits.

  • Andover Recreation

    Andover

    Youth and adult sports, classes, preschool play groups, after-school care and seasonal events.

    Phone: 978-623-8340

  • Andover Village Improvement Society

    Andover

    An all-volunteer land trust that cares for conservation land and trails in Andover, with volunteer trail and stewardship work.

  • Special Olympics Massachusetts in Haverhill and Andover

    Andover and Haverhill

    Sports training and competition for athletes with intellectual disabilities, including bowling and swimming in Haverhill.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

Trash and recycling

Trash pickup, recycling and transfer stations.

Clothing, furniture and baby supplies

Free clothing, household goods, diapers and baby gear.

  • Neighbors In Need diaper pantry

    Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    Free diapers, formula and infant supplies for families in the Greater Lawrence area.

    Address: 60 Island Street, Suite 74B, Lawrence

    Phone: 978-685-8321

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Anchor of Hope Diaper Bank

    Merrimack Valley

    Collects diapers and gives them to families through partner nonprofits and social service agencies.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Community Giving Tree

    Merrimack Valley

    Collects children's clothing, baby equipment, diapers and other essentials and passes them to families through social workers at partner agencies. It is not open to walk-ins.

    Address: 572B Main Street, West Boxford; 60 Island Street, Lawrence

    Phone: 978-769-5056

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Mission of Deeds

    Merrimack Valley

    A furniture bank in Reading that gives free beds, furniture and household items to people referred by a helping agency. Clients bring their own transportation.

    Address: 6 Chapin Avenue, Reading

    Phone: 781-944-9797

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Pregnancy Care Center of the Merrimack Valley

    Merrimack Valley

    A pregnancy center that an older listing says gave out maternity and baby clothing, diapers, toiletries and baby furniture.

    Address: 107 Merrimack Street, Haverhill

    Phone: 978-373-5700

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Project Home Again

    Merrimack Valley

    Gives free furniture, household goods and small appliances to low-income families referred by social workers.

    Address: 123 Tewksbury Street, Andover

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Ruth's House

    Merrimack Valley

    A Haverhill thrift store whose sales fund free clothing for people referred by local agencies, including winter coats for older adults.

    Phone: 978-521-5575

Thrift stores

Low-cost secondhand shops, including some just over the New Hampshire line.

  • Cobweb Consignment & Gifts

    Amesbury, Andover, Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Merrimac, Methuen, North Andover and West Newbury

    A consignment shop in Salem, N.H., about 4 miles from Methuen, listed as selling furniture, lighting and collectibles.

    Address: 385 South Broadway, Suite C, Salem, N.H.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Goodwill Salem, N.H.

    Amesbury, Andover, Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Merrimac, Methuen, North Andover and West Newbury

    A Goodwill thrift store and donation center in Salem, N.H., about 4 miles from Methuen. Sales support Goodwill's job-training programs.

    Phone: 603-898-3800

  • New Beginnings Furniture Consignment

    Amesbury, Andover, Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Merrimac, Methuen, North Andover and West Newbury

    A furniture consignment store in Salem, N.H., about 4 miles from Methuen.

    Address: 282 Main Street, Salem, N.H.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Salvation Army Thrift Store, Salem, N.H.

    Amesbury, Andover, Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Merrimac, Methuen, North Andover and West Newbury

    A Salvation Army thrift store and donation center on Cluff Road in Salem, N.H., about 4 miles from Methuen.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Andover Thrift Shop

    Andover

    A volunteer-run shop at Christ Church selling donated clothing and household goods at low prices. Proceeds support the church and its outreach.

  • Chic Consignment

    Andover

    A consignment shop selling women's pre-owned clothing and accessories.

    Address: 44 Main Street, Andover

    Phone: 978-474-1755

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Kerry's Closet & Used Furniture

    Andover, Haverhill, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    A consignment and used furniture store in Pelham, N.H., about 7 miles from Methuen, that also takes clothing seasonally.

    Address: 95 Bridge Street, Pelham, N.H.

    Phone: 603-932-4780

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Pelham Community Thrift Store

    Andover, Haverhill, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    A community thrift store in Pelham, N.H., about 7 miles from Methuen, run by volunteers from the Pelham Council on Aging.

    Phone: 603-635-3800

  • Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Lawrence

    Merrimack Valley

    A home-goods resale store run by Essex County Habitat for Humanity, with sales supporting its housing work. Volunteers help in the store.

    Address: 647 Andover Street, Lawrence

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Main Street Vintage

    Merrimack Valley

    A vintage shop with several dealers in Atkinson, N.H., about 6 miles from Haverhill.

    Address: 3 Main Street, Unit 2B, Atkinson, N.H.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Ruth's House

    Merrimack Valley

    A Haverhill thrift store whose sales fund free clothing for people referred by local agencies, including winter coats for older adults.

    Phone: 978-521-5575

  • Savers Plaistow

    Merrimack Valley

    A large for-profit thrift store in Plaistow, N.H., about 4 miles from Haverhill. Donations made there benefit the Epilepsy Foundation of New England.

    Phone: 603-378-0368

  • Time Capsule Antiques & More

    Merrimack Valley

    An antiques and collectibles shop with several dealers in Plaistow, N.H., about 4 miles from Haverhill.

    Address: 23 Plaistow Road, Plaistow, N.H.

    Phone: 603-974-7126

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

Domestic violence and sexual assault

Confidential hotlines, shelter, advocacy and support for survivors.

  • Essex Children's Advocacy Center

    Merrimack Valley

    Coordinates the response to reports of child abuse in Essex County and connects children and families with services.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Essex County CASA

    Merrimack Valley

    Court-appointed volunteer advocates for children in foster care, run by Family Services of the Merrimack Valley.

    Phone: 978-327-6600

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center

    Merrimack Valley

    Free, confidential help for adults and children affected by domestic violence, with a 24-hour hotline.

    Phone: 978-388-1888

  • YWCA child advocacy program

    Merrimack Valley

    Advocacy and crisis help for children affected by abuse and their families, reached through a 24-hour line.

    Phone: 877-509-9922

  • YWCA emergency domestic violence shelter

    Merrimack Valley

    Confidential emergency shelter for people fleeing domestic violence.

  • YWCA OASIS transitional housing

    Merrimack Valley

    Transitional housing for survivors of domestic violence.

  • YWCA sexual assault program

    Merrimack Valley

    Help for survivors of sexual assault and their supporters, including a 24-hour confidential hotline, advocacy and support groups.

    Phone: 877-509-9922

  • SafeLink domestic violence hotline

    Statewide

    A statewide 24-hour hotline that connects people experiencing intimate partner violence with shelters and local programs.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

Recovery and mental health

Peer recovery centers, support groups and prevention programs.

  • Lawrence Community Behavioral Health Center

    Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    The state-designated community behavioral health center for Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover, offering mental health and substance use services.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • NAMI Greater Lowell

    Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    The local NAMI affiliate for its area, offering mental health support and education for individuals and families.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • NAMI Greater North Shore

    Andover, Lawrence and Methuen

    The local NAMI affiliate for its area, offering mental health support and education.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Care Dimensions grief support

    Merrimack Valley

    Free grief support groups and workshops, including groups for bereaved parents and for children and teens.

    Phone: 855-774-5100

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Merrimack Valley Hospice grief support groups

    Merrimack Valley

    Free grief support groups open to the public, including groups for people who lost a spouse or partner.

    Phone: 978-552-4510

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Merrimack Valley Prevention and Substance Abuse Project

    Merrimack Valley

    A substance use prevention group that has held community meetings at Greater Lawrence Technical School.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Northeast Recovery Learning Community

    Merrimack Valley

    Peer support, support groups and trainings for people recovering from mental health challenges, addiction or trauma. Most groups are free and need no registration.

    Phone: 978-687-4288

  • Samaritans of Merrimack Valley

    Merrimack Valley

    A volunteer crisis helpline, support groups for people who lost someone to suicide, and suicide prevention trainings, run by Family Services of the Merrimack Valley.

    Address: 430 North Canal Street, Lawrence

    Phone: 978-327-6671

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • NAMI Massachusetts COMPASS helpline

    Statewide

    The statewide NAMI organization, which runs the COMPASS mental health resource helpline and free education courses for families.

    Phone: 617-580-8541

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Syringe service program locator

    Statewide

    A state map of syringe service programs, which offer free sterile supplies, safe disposal and links to testing and naloxone (Narcan).

Disability services

Support, advocacy and programs for people with disabilities and their families.

  • Greater Lawrence Technical School Special Education Parent Advisory Council

    Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    A council of parents of students with disabilities that advises the technical school on special education, meeting monthly from September through June.

    Phone: 978-686-0194

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Special Olympics Massachusetts in Haverhill and Andover

    Andover and Haverhill

    Sports training and competition for athletes with intellectual disabilities, including bowling and swimming in Haverhill.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • AgeSpan family caregiver support

    Merrimack Valley

    Support for people caring for an older relative or someone with dementia, including counseling, support groups, education and help paying for respite care. It also helps grandparents raising grandchildren.

  • AgeSpan Mobile Market

    Merrimack Valley

    Free monthly markets with fresh produce and shelf-stable food. The Lawrence market is open to all ages, and the Haverhill market is for enrolled residents 60 and older or adults with disabilities.

  • DEAF, Inc. Lawrence office

    Merrimack Valley

    Independent living services for Deaf, late-deafened and hard of hearing adults, including skills training, peer mentoring and advocacy.

    Phone: 617-505-4823

  • Ironstone Farm therapeutic riding

    Merrimack Valley

    Therapeutic horseback riding in Andover for children and adults with physical, emotional and cognitive disabilities, with scholarships available.

    Phone: 978-475-4056

  • Lowell Association for the Blind

    Merrimack Valley

    Programs for blind and visually impaired children, teens and adults, including social groups, braille lessons, assistive technology training and a radio reading service. It is based in Lowell.

    Phone: 978-454-5704

  • Northeast Arc Autism Support Center

    Merrimack Valley

    Connects families of people with autism to services and runs parent support groups and family events. It is part of Northeast Arc in Danvers.

  • Northeast Arc profound autism parent support group

    Merrimack Valley

    A monthly support group, led by a parent, for parents of children with profound autism. Childcare is available if requested when registering.

  • Northeast Independent Living Program

    Merrimack Valley

    A center for independent living, run by and for people with disabilities, offering information, advocacy, skills training, peer counseling and help moving out of nursing homes.

    Phone: 978-687-4288

  • Opportunity Works

    Merrimack Valley

    Day programs, job services and recreation for adults with developmental disabilities, based in Haverhill and Newburyport.

  • The Arc of Greater Haverhill-Newburyport

    Merrimack Valley

    Advocacy and support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, including referrals, support groups, workshops and recreation.

    Phone: 978-373-0552

Immigrants and adult education

English classes, high school equivalency, citizenship help and adult learning.

Tax and money help

Free tax preparation, emergency financial help and financial coaching.

  • Andover Senior Center free tax preparation

    Andover

    AARP Tax-Aide volunteers prepare tax returns for free during tax season, by appointment through the senior center.

    Phone: 978-623-8320

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Mill Cities Community Investments

    Merrimack Valley

    A community lender that makes loans for homes, small businesses and property development, with education and counseling.

    Address: 50 Island Street, Lawrence

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Free tax site lookup (MASSCAP)

    Statewide

    A statewide list of free tax preparation sites run by Community Action agencies.

  • AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

    Nationwide

    Free tax preparation by IRS-certified volunteers, focused on people over 50 with low to moderate incomes. AARP membership is not required.

    Phone: 1-888-227-7669

Youth programs

After-school programs, mentoring, arts, scouting and youth jobs.

  • Andover Youth Foundation

    Andover

    Raises money for Andover Youth Services and the Cormier Youth Center, which runs sports, mentoring and other programs for middle and high school students.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Merrimack Valley YMCA

    Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    A YMCA with branches in Andover and North Andover, Lawrence and Methuen offering child care, after-school programs, swim lessons and camps.

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts

    Merrimack Valley

    One-to-one mentoring that matches young people with adult volunteers.

  • Big Friends Little Friends

    Merrimack Valley

    A mentoring program from Family Services of the Merrimack Valley that pairs children ages 6 to 14 with adult volunteers for at least a year.

  • Care Dimensions grief support

    Merrimack Valley

    Free grief support groups and workshops, including groups for bereaved parents and for children and teens.

    Phone: 855-774-5100

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts

    Merrimack Valley

    The regional Girl Scout council, which helps families find a local troop. Financial help with fees is available.

    Phone: 844-306-4736

  • Lowell Association for the Blind

    Merrimack Valley

    Programs for blind and visually impaired children, teens and adults, including social groups, braille lessons, assistive technology training and a radio reading service. It is based in Lowell.

    Phone: 978-454-5704

  • Spirit of Adventure Council, Scouting America

    Merrimack Valley

    The regional Scouting America council for Cub Scout packs, Scouts BSA troops and other youth groups.

Pets

Low-cost spay and neuter, pet food help, shelters and rescues.

  • Animal Rescue Merrimack Valley

    Merrimack Valley

    An animal rescue group named on a list of Merrimack Valley rescues.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Essex County Pet Pantry

    Merrimack Valley

    A volunteer-run pantry that gives pet food, litter and basic supplies to Essex County families in financial hardship.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Great Dog Rescue New England

    Merrimack Valley

    A volunteer-run dog rescue that keeps dogs in foster homes until they are adopted. Adoption fees apply.

  • Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society

    Merrimack Valley

    A no-kill cat shelter and adoption center in Salisbury that also runs foster care and helps with vet bills.

  • Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society Catmobile

    Merrimack Valley

    A low-cost mobile spay and neuter clinic for cats, with vaccines and a microchip included. Financial help is available for those who qualify.

  • MSPCA Nevins Farm adoption center

    Merrimack Valley

    An animal shelter and adoption center in Methuen for pets and farm animals, including horses.

  • MSPCA Nevins Farm low-cost spay and neuter

    Merrimack Valley

    Reduced-cost spay and neuter surgery for dogs and cats of owners with low incomes. People enrolled in programs such as SNAP, WIC or fuel assistance qualify automatically.

  • PAWS New England

    Merrimack Valley

    A volunteer-run dog rescue that places dogs from high-kill shelters with foster homes and adopters in New England.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Rescue Inc

    Merrimack Valley

    A licensed dog rescue that takes in local dogs and dogs from the South, cares for them and finds them homes.

    Phone: 978-325-0131

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • MSPCA pet food pantry list

    Statewide

    A list of food pantries around the state that also give out pet food.

Volunteering and giving

Ways to volunteer and give locally.

  • Andover Village Improvement Society

    Andover

    An all-volunteer land trust that cares for conservation land and trails in Andover, with volunteer trail and stewardship work.

  • Greater Lawrence Kiwanis Club

    Andover, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover

    A service club that sponsors high school Key Clubs, gives scholarships and raises money for local children.

  • Rotary Club of Andover

    Andover

    A service club whose yearly Citizens Who Care gala honors local people.

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • AgeSpan Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers

    Merrimack Valley

    Volunteers deliver meals to homebound older adults and people with disabilities and check in on them. Drivers need a car and a background check.

    Phone: 978-651-3114

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts

    Merrimack Valley

    One-to-one mentoring that matches young people with adult volunteers.

  • Big Friends Little Friends

    Merrimack Valley

    A mentoring program from Family Services of the Merrimack Valley that pairs children ages 6 to 14 with adult volunteers for at least a year.

  • Essex County CASA

    Merrimack Valley

    Court-appointed volunteer advocates for children in foster care, run by Family Services of the Merrimack Valley.

    Phone: 978-327-6600

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Essex County Community Foundation

    Merrimack Valley

    A community foundation that gives grants to Essex County nonprofits and helps people set up charitable funds.

  • Essex County Greenbelt volunteers

    Merrimack Valley

    A land trust that protects open space across Essex County. Volunteers monitor properties, maintain trails and help with stewardship projects.

    Phone: 978-768-7241

  • Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Lawrence

    Merrimack Valley

    A home-goods resale store run by Essex County Habitat for Humanity, with sales supporting its housing work. Volunteers help in the store.

    Address: 647 Andover Street, Lawrence

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • Merrimack River Watershed Council

    Merrimack Valley

    A watershed group that organizes volunteer cleanups along the Merrimack River and its tributaries.

  • Merrimack Valley Habitat for Humanity

    Merrimack Valley

    Builds affordable homes for first-time buyers with volunteer crews, including a program for veterans.

    Address: 60 Island Street, Lawrence

    Found in news reports or directories and not yet confirmed with the organization. Call or check before you go.

  • United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley

    Merrimack Valley

    Raises money for local nonprofits and matches individuals, teens and company teams with volunteer work.

Programs, hours and eligibility change, so check with each organization before you go. Know a resource that belongs here, or found a link that no longer works? Let us know.