The family shelter system in Massachusetts is beyond capacity. For the first time in the 40 years since MA became a "right to shelter" state for families, Gov. Healey capped the family shelter system at 7,500 families; beyond that, families would not be guaranteed shelter. The state surpassed that number on November 9.
Thousands more families urgently need emergency shelter but do not qualify under the state's "ludicrously low" income requirements. Some are staying in motels until their money runs out. Others are doubling up in the apartments of family or friends, squeezing multiple families into one-bedroom homes. Migrants entering Massachusetts are not legally able to work right away, leaving them stranded without income for months. And families who can work risk losing their shelter placement if their income exceeds the state's threshold.
Circle of Hope's partner programs are reporting an increase in need across the board. According to our partners, more heavily pregnant women and older women are seeking shelter and services than ever before. Parents are struggling to get their children to school safely without winter coats or clothing. And families are choosing between buying food or daily essentials for health and dignity, like shampoo, soap, and menstrual products - which are not covered by SNAP benefits.
At Circle of Hope, we are working diligently to keep pace with this crisis and provide exactly what families need for physical and mental health. We're proud to be part of the network of wonderful organizations providing resources and services to families experiencing homelessness and the additional traumas that brings.
Please follow us on social media for continued updates on this crisis.
