United Way of Massachusetts Bay, founded in 1935, funds and operates the statewide Mass 2-1-1 helpline and supports free tax preparation and local programs across eastern Massachusetts. Here is what it does, how to get help, and how to give.
The affiliate unites community resources to create lasting change for children and adults, funding local programs and operating shared services rather than running a single charity. It focuses its direct work in 12 core communities, including priority neighborhoods in Boston.
Marty Martinez became president and CEO in 2025. The affiliate marks roughly 90 years of local impact across eastern Massachusetts.
The quickest way to reach help is Mass 2-1-1, the statewide line United Way of Massachusetts Bay funds and operates. It is free, confidential, and answered 24 hours a day, connecting callers to food, housing, utility help, and other services anywhere in the state.
| Program | What it does |
|---|---|
| Mass 2-1-1 | A free, confidential, statewide 24/7 information and referral line, funded and operated by the affiliate since 2006. |
| VITA free tax prep | Volunteer Income Tax Assistance that prepares returns at no cost for eligible households. |
| ALICE research | Data on Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed households who work but cannot afford the basics. |
| Community grants | Funding directed to local programs in 12 core communities. |
Because Mass 2-1-1 is statewide, it also serves as an emergency information line during storms and other disasters.
United Way uses the ALICE framework, Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, to describe households that earn above the poverty line but still cannot cover housing, childcare, food, transportation, healthcare, and technology. The data guides where the affiliate directs grants across eastern Massachusetts.
The research helps focus funding on prevention, reaching working families before a single setback turns into a crisis.
You can donate directly, give through a workplace campaign, or designate a gift to a specific cause. Donations support the affiliate's grants and Mass 2-1-1.
Volunteers help in many ways, including IRS-certified free tax preparation. United Way of Massachusetts Bay holds a four-star rating from Charity Navigator with a 100 percent score, and its EIN for tax-deductible gifts is 04-2382233.
A statewide 24/7 helpline funded and operated since 2006.
Free tax filing for eligible households.
Data on working households that cannot afford basics.
Funding for local programs in 12 core communities.
Support for children and young people.
Payroll campaigns that fund the affiliate's work.
Sources: United Way of Massachusetts Bay (unitedwaymassbay.org) and Mass 2-1-1; Charity Navigator and ProPublica (EIN 04-2382233). Retrieved June 2026. We are not affiliated with United Way of Massachusetts Bay and receive no compensation for this listing. Spotted an error? [email protected]
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