"Massachusetts Shelters Overwhelmed as Migrant Families and Homeless Face Waitlist"

Massachusetts has reached its limit of 7,500 families in its emergency assistance system, causing new migrant families and unhoused individuals to be placed on a waitlist for shelter placements. The state, which has a right-to-shelter law, is facing financial and space constraints. The Healey administration will prioritize high-risk pregnancies, families with medical needs, and those at risk of domestic violence. The National Guard is assisting over 1,500 families in hotels and motels. The state is partnering with United Way to create short-term overnight sites, but details are unclear. The Legislature has released a spending bill that includes $250 million for the emergency shelter system, but with conditions. The Hynes Convention Center is being considered as a potential overflow site.