State Awards $46 Million to Support HCBS, Human-services Workforce Development

BOSTON — The Baker-Polito administration announced that more than $46 million has been awarded to 85 community organizations for workforce recruitment, retention, and training, with the goal of reducing staff burnout and improving client outcomes in the human-service and home and community-based (HCBS) sectors across the Commonwealth. More than 472 applications were submitted, totaling $270.1 million in requests.

The HCBS and human-services workforce grant opened in October through the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) for any Massachusetts provider, education or training institution, community organization, existing workforce program, or private foundation.

“We are experiencing a nationwide shortage of human-service and HCBS workers who have been facing burnout and immense stress over the last several years,” said Marylou Sudders, Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services secretary. “Investing in community-service organizations through this funding will better equip the Commonwealth with the resources and tools needed to recruit and retain this critical workforce, creating better patient outcomes for Massachusetts residents.”

EOHHS received funding for the grant through the American Rescue Plan Act and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The administration is committed to using the funds to strengthen access, family and natural supports, person-centered care, choice, and equity to HCBS for those with physical disabilities and intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as for older adults with unique behavioral-health needs.