Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH)

MCDHH provides accessible communication, education, and advocacy to consumers and private and public entities so that programs, services, and opportunities throughout Massachusetts are fully accessible to persons who are deaf and hard of hearing.

MCDHH staff are returning to work using a hybrid work model: staff will be working remotely and in-office. In person appointments should be scheduled in advance and directly with the staff member.

MCDHH is checking Voicemail and SignMail messages left on our main numbers: Voice (617) 740-1600 and Video Phone: (617) 326-7546. We will respond within one business day.

Interpreter/CART requests are being processed online, visit https://www.mass.gov/how-to/how-to-request-an-asl-interpreter-or-cart-provider to submit your request.

For current information regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic visit: http://www.mass.gov/covid19 or call 2-1-1

Contact Us

Phone

Available Monday through Friday 9am-5pm

Front Desk

TOLL FREE VOICE 800-882-1155
TOLL FREE TTY 800-530-7570

Address

MCDHH Executive Office
600 Washington Street
Boston, MA 02110-1779

Who we serve

The Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is the principal agency in the Commonwealth on behalf of people of all ages who are deaf and hard of hearing, established by Chapter 716 of the Acts of 1985, which amended Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 6 §191-197.

To fulfill this function, MCDHH is mandated to:

  • promulgate and coordinate public policy;
  • deliver technical assistance and resources for other state agencies as needed;
  • advocate;
  • provide or ensure provision of direct specialized services including but not limited to community services, communication access services, technology services including telecommunication and assistive listening devices, independent living services, information services, and such other services as it determines are needed;
  • carry out public education;
  • ensure the accessibility and quality of existing services and recommend new services as needed;
  • make recommendations to the Governor.

Our Vision is a Commonwealth where universal access is the standard for ensuring that Deaf and hard of hearing people fully participate in all areas of life. The estimated number of Deaf and hard of hearing is 20% of the general population. The current MA census is 7,029,917; the estimation for MA Deaf and hard of hearing is: 1,405,983.

Please find the Vision and Mission of MCDHH linked here.

Priority Areas to reach our Vision

Effective Government
Facilitate effective public policy and operations that recognize and address the concerns of Deaf and hard of hearing consumers and employees.

Community Connected Services
Advocate and support access for Deaf and hard of hearing in the community.

Education
Ensure that Deaf and hard of hearing children receive a quality education based on national standards.

Workforce Development
Expand the pool of Interpreters, CART providers and qualified ASL proficient human service personnel in the Commonwealth.

Donations accepted by mail to MCDHH Chief Financial Officer, 600 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111. 

What would you like to do?

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Statewide Advisory Council
Thursdays, 5:30 - 7:30

September 21, 2023

October 19, 2023 *Cancelled*

November 16, 2023

December 21, 2023

January 18, 2024 *Cancelled*

February 15, 2024

March 21, 2024

April 18, 2024

May 16, 2024 Meeting Agenda

June 20, 2024 Meeting Agenda

FY23 public meeting information

No upcoming events scheduled

Locations

Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing information

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