DDS: OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR AUTISM WAIVER OCTOBER 16-30, 2026
Applications and information on the Autism Waiver are now available on the DDS/Autism division website. Any enrollment forms submitted previously will be discarded. Families must apply again during this open enrollment period to remain on the waitlist.
Applications MUST be postmarked or emailed between October 16 and 30, 2026.
Important information on the Waiver:
- This crucial program allows MassHealth eligible children with autism to access intensive treatments in their homes and communities.
- The program is limited to children between the ages of 0-9 who are MassHealth eligible and at risk of residential placement now or at some point in the future.
- Eligible children are chosen for Autism Waiver services on a lottery basis and once chosen, receive intensive in-home therapies, services, and supports for 3 years, or until the child reaches the age of 9. After 3 years the child is eligible for less intensive step-down services until age 9. The waiver also provides related support services such as community integration activities and respite.
- For assistance filling out your application contact [email protected] or visit Autism support centers list to find an Autism Support Center near you.
AUTISM SUPPORT CENTER
Your Resource Hub for Autism Support
The Autism Support Center (ASC), a program of Vinfen, is designed to provide an array of information and referral services, resources, and supports to children and young adults up to age 22 with autism and their families. Services and supports include information and referrals, trainings, access to the latest information on autism, consultative clinics, support groups, parent and peer networking and mentoring, social and recreational events, and other activities.
Guidance for Families at Every Stage
Who We Support
Our services supports families of children and young adults with autism, including those with or without intellectual and developmental disability.
The Center offers a range of resources and services to help families navigate an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis, including information, guidance, support groups, and connections to community programs. Families can engage with the Center regularly or as needed, particularly during key transition points.
Autism Waiver Program
We provide Autism Support Broker services for children under age 9 enrolled in the Department of Developmental Services’ Autism Waiver Program (AWP).
AWP offers intensive in-home supports to help young children build social, emotional, communication, and behavioral skills. Families can access interventions such as behavior support, social and communication services, community integration, and respite. As a self-directed program, AWP allows families to choose services and hire staff that best meet their child’s needs.
Access our resources in your language
Resources
Looking for additional guidance, tools, or community support? These trusted organizations offer information, services, and advocacy to help families navigate autism and related needs.
Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Application
The Federation for Children with Special Needs
Boston Children’s Hospital Autism Spectrum Center
Boston Medical Center Autism Program
SPAN Parent Advocacy Network
Greater MA Special-Needs Events
Contact Us
Vinfen Autism Support Center
1208A VFW Parkway, Suite 202
West Roxbury, Massachusetts 02132
Send us a message
Have questions or need more information? Our team is here to help.
Fill out the form below and a member of the Autism Support Center will reach out as soon as possible.
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