Division of Community Care | DCC |
Emergency Response, Lasting Impact
The Division of Community Care (DCC) is a pioneering public health-led initiative in the City of Northampton, MA, designed to provide an additional response for community members who need immediate help with personal challenges.
The DCC provides holistic, non-clinical support through its dedicated team of Community Responders (CRs), who are all highly trained members of the community, with lived experience and an unwavering commitment to support. CRs work directly with community members in need of support, offering immediate assistance and connecting them to long-term resources.
Visit the DCC Community Space: Drop in for in-person support, resources, and assistance. 1 Roundhouse Plaza, First Floor, Northampton, MA 01060.
Monday - Friday 8:30 am 4:00 pm
Call or Text: (877) 322-0413 for immediate assistance, support, or to speak with a Community Responder.
Email: dcc@northamptonma.gov for questions, referrals, or additional service information.
Mission & Vision
The Division of Community Care (DCC) is dedicated to providing person-centered and trauma-informed care. We aim to support individuals experiencing homelessness, emotional distress, basic needs challenges, substance use issues, and conflict navigation within the City of Northampton. Our mission is to address racial and social inequities, connect people to essential resources, and offer continuous care through a comprehensive approach that includes harm reduction, prevention, intervention, outreach, and follow-up services. The DCC launched September 5th, 2023 as one of the six Division located in the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
The Division of Community Care (DCC) envisions a community where every individual has equitable access to the resources and support they need to thrive. We strive to foster trust and build long-term relationships within the community, ensuring that all members feel safe, supported, and empowered. By integrating public health principles and promoting inclusivity and cultural competence, we aim to transform the way our community addresses and responds to crises, ultimately enhancing overall health and well-being.
DCC Community Impacts
URGENT SUPPORT & FOLLOW UP
In 2024 the DCC engaged with community members a total of 5,604 times and provided services to more than 754 individuals for the first time.
RELATIONSHIP BASED CARE
In 2024, the DCC welcomed 4,814 total visits to its Community Space.
RESOURCE CONNECTIONS
From September through December 2024, the DCC offered emergency housing and shelter navigation support 185 and helped community members access long-term resources such as health insurance, food, harm reduction, employment assistance, and mental health services 389 times.
Contact DCC
The DCC is open Monday - Friday 8:30 am 4:00 pm
Visit the DCC Community Space 1 Roundhouse Plaza, First Floor, Northampton, MA 01060
Drop in for in-person support, resources, and assistance.
Call or Text: (877) 322-0413 for immediate assistance, support, or to speak with a Community Responder.
Email: dcc@northamptonma.gov for questions, referrals, or additional service information.