On Friday, November 22, Governor Healey announced systemwide changes to the family Emergency Assistance shelter system.
You can read about them in her press release here and the Boston Globe article here.
The new rules include “new tracks” – “rapid shelter” for up to 30 days without subsequent access to additional shelter – and “bridge shelter” with a 6 month time limit (subject to legislative approval). They also include expanded HomeBase rehousing assistance and a commitment to phase out use of hotels over the next 1.5 years.
The 6 month time limit is of great concern given the current stress families face under the 9 month limit. Right now, even prior to the limits being reached, the region is seeing a rising number of families living in places not fit for human habitation such as cars, parks, and abandoned buildings.
We thank our legislative delegation in advance for their partnership in their consideration of this proposal. We look forward to working together towards our shared goal of safe and affordable housing for our most vulnerable families.
