Wayside Multi-Service Center

Wayside Multi-Service Center in Watertown provides prevention, outreach and counseling services for the diverse populations of Watertown, Belmont, Waltham and nearby communities. Its work centers on building resiliency in youth and adults so they can respond to personal and community issues, and it approaches that work through a racial and gender equity and social justice lens. The center also supports the Watertown Youth Coalition and Belmont Wellness Coalition, community groups addressing the mental health needs of youth and families.

The center is part of Wayside Youth & Family Support Network, a Massachusetts organization offering mental health counseling and family support to children, young adults and families. Locally, Navigating to Emotional Wellness connects Watertown and Waltham residents ages 6 to 22 who have experienced a traumatic event, plus their families, with counseling and support. The Social Service Resource Program, a City of Watertown program, helps residents ages 18 to 59 find fuel, food and housing assistance, counseling information and referrals.

What to Know

• Services are offered in English, Spanish, Portuguese and other languages as needed.
• Through peer leadership and student mental health advocate programs, young people work on projects about wellness, substance misuse and coping strategies.
• The parent network describes its approach as strength-based and built around the knowledge and strength of families.