The KidsCare Connection Project was initiated in conjunction with the MetroWest Community Health Care Foundation in May 2007 to increase Framingham children’s access to health care. KidsCare collaborates with school personnel and healthcare professionals to identify the most pressing healthcare needs among this population, and arranges for assessment and/or treatment in the following areas:  

• primary care
• mental health
• chronic and acute illnesses and injuries
• dental services
• vision services

The main goals of KidsCare are to develop a culture of preventative and follow-up care in families, to assist families in navigating and overcoming the barriers within the healthcare system, and to support early intervention to address healthcare issues before they become more serious. This culture will bring a lifetime of benefits not only to families but also to the schools and the community as a whole.

Helpful Links

Information about Your Legal Rights

• www.masslegalhelp.org
  Massachusetts legal aid programs put together this website to help you find practical information about your legal rights.  For example, information about issues regarding health and mental health, Special Education services, immigration and many more areas.

General Resources

• The Virtual Gateway Screening Service is a quick and easy way for people who live in Massachusetts to find out if they might be able to get help getting health care or health insurance, help paying for child care, help getting food, and help with many other needs.
  If the Screening Service shows that you should be eligible for SNAP benefits (formerly called “Food Stamps”), you will be able to submit an initial application online. 
  
  Note:  If you have already submitted a SNAP application recently or your family is currently receiving SNAP benefits, DO NOT SUBMIT AN ONLINE APPLICATION.  Instead, contact your local DTA office to inquire about the status of your SNAP application or your case.

• The official website of Framingham Public Schools.

• The Parent Information Center of Framingham Public Schools is located at 454 Water Street and serves as the main source of information and assistance to all students entering the Framingham Public Schools.

• MassResources.org provides information about a wide range of assistance programs for people in need living in Massachusetts, including information on what benefits are available, how to apply, eligibility requirements, benefit amounts, and answers to commonly asked questions.

• Mass 211 is a helpline connecting callers to information about critical health and human services available in their community, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  You can dial 2-1-1 on your telephone or call 1-877-211-MASS (6277).