A message from Disability Commissioner Kristen McCosh on supporting our residents

Dear Disability Community Members,



In our continued efforts to flatten the curve of COVID-19, we are still under a “Stay at Home” order, and schools will now remain closed through May 4. For the time being, only essential businesses are allowed to remain open, including supermarkets, pharmacies, and banks. However, many restaurants are still open for takeout and delivery.



City of Boston staff is working hard to support our residents by linking them with the essential items and services they need to stay safe and healthy during this time. My office is currently working closely with all City Departments to ensure that they are responsive to the critical needs of persons with disabilities.



Mayor Walsh has put a number of initiatives into place during the State of Emergency brought on by the coronavirus. Some of the most important initiatives that the Mayor has established include the following:

• Opening sites for Boston Public Schools (BPS) students to pick up meals
• Creating a rental voucher program for families of BPS students who are homeless
• Waiving fees and time limits on metered parking in Boston neighborhoods
• Delaying due dates of City real estate taxes and vehicle excise taxes
• Establishing a moratorium on evictions for residents of the Boston Housing Authority

These policy changes should help to ensure stability for individuals and families for the time being. However, we understand that those in the disability community have more specific needs that are being impacted under the current circumstances, such as home care assistance, medical equipment, and access to food and essential goods.



In an effort to address these issues, we are partnering with state agencies and local non-profits that work with people in the disability community. We are working on short-term and longer-term solutions to help people get through this crisis. To start, we’ve created a Resource Guide that provides the latest important information on concerns related to persons with disabilities. It is available online.



Please reach out to us if you need assistance with an individual issue. You can dial 311 to reach City Hall, or call us at 617-635-3682. Our email is disability@boston.gov, and the latest updates are available at boston.gov.



Until next week, please stay informed, stay home, and stay healthy.



Sincerely,