MA: Poverty Issues
MA Commission on Poverty tackles historic wealth gap
A Legislature-backed Commission on Poverty in Massachusetts aims to address the state's historic wealth gap. The commission will study demographic …
High housing costs in MA impacting childrens’ overall well-being
Massachusetts is known for its quality education and health care systems, but high housing costs are straining family budgets and impacting …
Free community college plan in MA burdens underpaid, overworked staff
The Massachusetts Senate has proposed free community college for all residents, but educators say an influx of new students could overwhelm the …
MA household debt grows as grocery prices remain at post-pandemic highs
Massachusetts residents struggling to pay high food prices are acquiring a growing amount of debt to pay their bills, according to a new report…
MA students urge lawmakers to fund campus anti-hunger efforts
A coalition of college students and administrators is asking state lawmakers to help fight food insecurity on campus. The group is asking for $2 …
GOP proposal threatens cuts to MA Social Security benefits
Congressional Republicans' proposed changes to Social Security have advocates for Massachusetts beneficiaries concerned about the future of the key sa…
MA diaper distribution program helps families make ends meet
Supporters of a federal pilot program to distribute diapers to low-income families in Massachusetts hope to build upon its success. More than 1 …
Report: New immigrants adding to MA economy, workforce
A surge of new immigrants in Massachusetts is currently straining the state's emergency shelter system and budget but a new report found they will bri…
MA public school support staff fight for a living wage
Lawmakers in Massachusetts are considering legislation to ensure Education Support Professionals in public schools earn a living wage. ESP's do it …
MA families in limbo as college financial-aid awards delayed
Families in Massachusetts will have to wait even longer for financial aid offers from colleges and universities this year because of an error in the F…
MA agencies make expanded tax credits easier to access
Lawmakers in Massachusetts passed some of the nation's most generous tax credits - and now, help is available to make sure families can take …
Stalled Farm Bill puts pressure on MA food banks
Massachusetts food banks are struggling to keep up with demand as the Farm Bill remains stalled in Congress. The bill is renegotiated every five …