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The Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) creates and coordinates services that enhance the quality of life for Cambridge residents.

Driven by the needs of residents, the department's services, programs, and initiatives provide support to Cambridge residents across their lifespan and experience, from newborns to children and teens; young adults to older adults; lifelong Cambridge residents to people who immigrate to Cambridge. We also partner closely with community organizations and local employers.

DHSP focuses on equitably serving Cambridge’s diverse community and increasing access to programs and services, particularly for low-income individuals and families and residents from historically marginalized communities. 

Cambridge Office of Early Childhood

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The mission of the Cambridge Office of Early Childhood (OEC) is to connect the city’s early childhood ecosystem and align early childhood services and information. OEC also advocates for and advances the needs of all young children, their families, and the early childhood workforce. Through the Cambridge Preschool Program and other initiatives, OEC strives to ensure that every child and family in Cambridge has access to high quality early care and education experiences so that all children enter school ready to thrive.    

The Office of Early Childhood is a joint office of the City of Cambridge Department of Human Service Programs and Cambridge Public Schools. 

View OEC's website

Coming Up

  • Hip Hop Dance Workshop for Older Adults

    This class uses hip hop to help build stamina and coordination. Combining simple choreography and moving to various beats is a great way to get your heart rate up while learning basic steps.

  • Portrait Drawing Class for Older Adults

    Students will learn how to approach a human portrait drawing from start to finish.

  • Line Dancing for Older Adults

    Easy to learn and fun to dance. Learn the basics of line dancing as well as the newer and more established line dances being done. Have fun, learn new dances, and enjoy the company of others.

  • Walking Group for Older Adults

    Join the Council on Aging and the Department of Transportation for weekly walks designed to encourage movement, connection, and exploration. Open to Cambridge residents ages 60 and older.

  • Zumba Gold

    This is a low impact, easy to follow, 45-minute Latin-inspired dance class. This class is appropriate for adults of all fitness levels and participants can go at their own pace.

  • Tai Chi for Older Adults

    This instructor-led Tai Chi class is open to all individuals to learn this ancient martial art.

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Service Requests

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