The Nursing Assistant and Home Health Aide Training Program at Catholic Charities Boston’s Labouré Center in South Boston provides a comprehensive, hands-on introduction to direct patient care. Designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in the healthcare field, this no-cost training program includes classroom instruction and clinical experience delivered in an immersive, in-person format. Students will learn the fundamental responsibilities of Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Home Health Aides (HHAs), preparing them for work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and in-home settings.
The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, patient care techniques, and professional conduct, all aligned with Massachusetts state certification standards. Instruction takes place fully on-site at the Labouré Center, allowing students to benefit from face-to-face support from experienced instructors and peers. This structure supports both theoretical learning and skill development through real-world application.
Class Schedule and Duration
The program runs over the course of several weeks, with full-time, weekday sessions. While specific class times may vary by cohort, classes typically meet during daytime hours Monday through Friday, and students can expect to complete both the classroom (55 hours) and clinical (21 hours) components within that period. Please note that evening classes are currently not available.
Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the Massachusetts CNA state exam through Headmaster. Catholic Charities offers the convenience of testing directly at the Labouré Center, making the transition from training to certification seamless.
Admissions Requirements
To qualify for the program, applicants must meet income eligibility guidelines and satisfy other program requirements as determined by Catholic Charities. These requirements are designed to prioritize individuals who are underserved or seeking a career pathway out of economic hardship. There is no tuition cost, and the program provides training stipends to help students manage expenses while in school.
Prospective students are encouraged to contact the Labouré Center directly for information on how to apply and confirm eligibility.
Program Cost and Financial Aid
One of the most compelling features of this program is its no-cost structure. Tuition is fully covered for eligible applicants, and stipends are available to support students throughout the training period. After training, the only out-of-pocket cost is the $110 fee for the Massachusetts CNA state certification exam. This exam is offered conveniently on-site.
There are no traditional financial aid or federal loan options because the program is grant-funded or subsidized through charitable resources. This makes it an ideal fit for individuals seeking debt-free entry into healthcare.
Instruction and Faculty
Catholic Charities Boston is known for its compassionate, mission-driven approach to education. Instructors in the CNA/HHA program bring real-world experience from various healthcare settings and provide both technical instruction and career mentorship. Students often remark on the dedication and encouragement they receive from faculty who are deeply invested in their success.
Career Preparation and Job Outlook
This program is strategically designed to launch students into the healthcare workforce. CNA and HHA roles are among the fastest-growing occupations, and Catholic Charities’ training reflects employer expectations in both facility-based and home health environments.
While formal job placement services are not listed, Catholic Charities Boston has longstanding partnerships within the healthcare sector, and its reputation often leads to informal job referrals and guidance. The program also positions students well for future career advancement, including LPN and RN pathways.
Accreditation and Organizational Support
Catholic Charities Boston has been a leading provider of education and workforce development services in Massachusetts for over a century. Though the CNA/HHA program itself is not described as individually accredited, it follows Massachusetts state standards for nurse aide training and prepares students to sit for the official Headmaster CNA exam. As a social service agency, Catholic Charities focuses on breaking the cycle of poverty by providing accessible education and direct community impact.
What Students Can Expect
Students can expect a structured, supportive learning environment, hands-on training, and the opportunity to build real clinical skills in preparation for the state CNA exam. The in-person format promotes engagement and interaction, and students often find camaraderie among peers who are similarly motivated to enter a helping profession.
After graduation, successful students will be prepared to begin work as a CNA or HHA in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or private home care agencies. The program serves as both an entry point into healthcare and a stepping stone toward more advanced credentials in nursing.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $0 (No cost for eligible students; $110 certification exam fee) |
| Program Duration | Approximately 5 weeks (55 classroom hours + 21 clinical hours) |
| Class Schedules | Full-time weekday classes; no evening sessions |
| Prerequisites | Income eligibility and program-specific requirements |
| Address | 275 West Broadway, South Boston, MA 02127 |
| Phone | (617) 464-8500 |
| No | |
| Website | https://www.ccab.org/adult-education-workforce-development/job-training/ |
| Job Placement | No |