Need assistance in Worcester? There's a Facebook group for that.

WORCESTER — Many people visit social media websites to get updates from family and friends and to read the latest news from near and far, but for many in the Worcester area, some Facebook groups are much more than a place for gossip and socialization. They're a lifeline.

Groups like Mutual Aid Worcester and Helping Hand Worcester Massachusetts aren't for spilling the tea; instead these groups act as a platform for those in need, whether it be financial or otherwise.

Many of these groups are set to 'private,' meaning you will have to request to join it. The request typically involves answering a few questions about why you'd like to join, where you are located and your ties to Worcester.

Here are some of the best Facebook groups serving Worcester and the surrounding area.

For general assistance/public information

Mutual Aid Worcester - Private group

Mutual Aid Worcester, or "MAW" as group members affectionately call it, is a resource for Worcester and the surrounding area. Taking a glance at the page, there are posts in search of diapers, another post offering up two bags of 12-month-old clothing, and yet another asking for a hand with this month's rent.

Worcester, MA Rentals, Apartments, Housing, Rooms, Sublets, Roommates - Private group

If you're looking for a place to live, you'll want to join this group for rentals. Whether you're looking for a new roommate or a new apartment, there are dozens of weekly postings in the area.

Apartments for rent in Worcester (surrounding areas) - Public group

If you'd rather join a public group when looking for a place to rent, look no further than this group.

Missing in Worcester - Public group

The Missing in Worcester public group helps spread information about local missing persons from Worcester and beyond.

Worcester Service Listings - Public group

If you're looking for a job, Worcester Service Listings is regularly updated with opportunities.

For buying, selling or gifting

Worcester County Bulletin Board - Public group

Oh, the power of the local bulletin board. This public group offers much of what a physical bulletin board in a public setting would: advertisements, event brochures, flyers and public announcements. There is a little something for everyone in this group.

Worcester mass and surrounding areas buy sell anything - Public group

Whether you're looking to offload something for free or make some extra cash, there are a number groups locally. These online places offer everything from leather jackets, to cars, to furniture.

For parents and families

Worcester County Parents & Caregivers - Public group

Parents in Worcester County can head over to this public group for information about daycare, babysitting services, events and activities. Need a sitter or parenting advice? You'll most likely find it here.

Worcester County Free All Things Baby/kids - Private group

"Being a parent in today's age is not easy," the group wrote. "Things can get hard and sometimes we just need a little help! Here's a space where we can post what we no longer need and are ready to pass on to another parent or post things we are in search in hopes someone have it and they could pass it on."

Worcester Area Homeschool Community - Private group

This small group is meant for local families who are homeschooling their children. Posts often include playdates at the park or information about meeting up with other families that share the same lifestyle.

Things to do, eat, see and explore

Worcester area events and concerts - Private group

This private group has been posting about local events and concerts for nearly a decade.

Worcester Area Restaurant Information - Public group

Need help deciding where to take the family for lunch? Or perhaps you're trying to plan a special anniversary dinner date with your partner? Look no further than 'Worcester Area Restaurant Information." The public group gives local restaurants a space to advertise their latest concoctions, discounts and deals, as well as seasonal menus.

Worcester Eats - Public group

Hungry with no idea of where or what to eat? Welcome to Worcester Eats, where diners, and chefs serve up the best advice when it comes to dining out. Whether it's a pop-up eatery, new establishment, or perhaps a historical neighborhood haunt, you'll find honest reviews. The Telegram & Gazette administers this group.

For more about Worcester

What’s happening Worcester - Private group

This private group may actually have all the answers as to what is happening in Worcester. Recent topics include parents asking about sports seasons, restaurants advertising seasonal menus and new street construction. If it's happening in the city, you'll most likely find it here.

Old School Worcester - Private group

Remember the good old days? "Old School Worcester" does. The group describes itself as having a "wicked awesome historical atmosphere."

"Remember The Galleria, Showcase Cinemas, wrestling at the AUD, concerts at the CENTRUM, White City, Spags, and all of the theme parks surrounding New England," the group wrote. "I invite you to please join us and share your photos and experiences from your past of good ol' Worcester."

Worcester LGBTQIA+ Group - Private group

Run by Pride Worcester, the 'Worcester LGBTQIA+' Facebook group is a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies to promote events, services, and connect within the community.

Worcester, Massachusetts, Past, Present and Future - Private group

Worcester locals rejoice, this group is all about you. Posts about Worcester's history are met with locals looking to connect within the community.

Just for fun

You're Probably From Worcester if - Public group

This public group offers a platform for just about anything you could think of in Worcester. Small businesses publish advertisements alongside locals who share memes about their hometown.

The Truth About Worcester (OFFICIAL) - Private group

The Truth About Worcester group supports nearly everything going on in the area. Topics range from the serious and controversial to jokes about growing up in "the Woo." You'll never quite know what you'll find in this group, but it will be entertaining.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Worcester Facebook groups support the local community with resources