LGBTQIA+ Resources

Use this page to find information and resources for LBGTQIA+ community and allies in Western MA. You can also search for more services using the 413Cares search bar.

Note: This page is a work in progress and we will continue to build upon it. Please send us any suggestions.

Hotlines

Many hotlines exist to offer help to LGBTQIA+ people when they need it. Help is just a call away. Connect with a hotline.

Legal Services and Information

Massachusetts has laws and protections in place for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people, despite recent federal executive orders. Find legal information and resources below.

Legal Services

Find several legal services for LGBTQ-related issues.

Protections in MA

Massachusetts Shield Law Advisory

The Shield Law protects people in Massachusetts from the consequences of civil and criminal actions in other states that restrict or criminalize reproductive and gender-affirming care.

Protections Against Discrimination in Places of Public Accommodation Guide

Massachusetts law prohibits discrimination based on gender identity and expression in places of public accommodation. Get more information.

Hate Crimes

Find Resources on Hate Incidents and Hate Crimes from the MA Attorney General's Office.

Healthcare

Know Your Rights on Gender Affirming Care

In Massachusetts, you have a right to access gender-affirming health care whether you are a Massachusetts resident or not, or a young adult, minor, or incarcerated person.

If you are health care provider, find the latest information from the MA Attorney General (as of April 2025) to help you understand MA law amidst the federal executive orders.

Mental Health and Gender Affirming Care Resource Guide

The MA Attorney General's resource guide is for Massachusetts LGBTQ2IA+ young people and their trusted adults. Learn more and access the resource guide in multiple languages.

Find more services related to healthcare, mental health, and chronic prevention and healthy aging for LGBTQIA+ people on the MA Department of Public Health website.

More Resources

Check our list of programs serving western MA.

Mental Health and Substance Use

View a list of resources that support mental health, substance use, and recovery in Western MA.

Youth and Older Adults

Resources for LGBTQ+ Youth and Young Adults:

List of programs on 413Cares

Resources for LGBTQ+ Older Adults:

Education

Find resources that support leadership and scholarship opportunities.

Find guidance and information for schools at the MA Safe Schools Program for LGBTQ Students.

Other Support Services

Find other support services, including support groups and virtual communities.

Find more resources and information on Translate Gender's website.

You can also search for more services on 413Cares.

Information for Allies

An ally is someone who is on their own journey to understand what it means to support LGBTQIA+ people and how to be an advocate. Find resources on being an ally: