Overview of Individual Homelessness in Massachusetts

• According to research conducted by the University of Massachusetts' Center on Social Policy, an estimated 28,000 unaccompanied individuals stay in emergency shelter in a given year.

• In 2003, the average age of shelter guests was 41 years.

• 9% of those served were youth (between the ages of 18 and 24 yrs).

• But it was elders who represented one of the fastest growing population, representing 14% of the emergency shelter population in 2003; up from 8% in 1999.

• Surprisingly, 70% of the shelter guests in 2003 had high school educations or higher.

• A significant portion of the population was working but their average income of was only $970/month.

• Approximately 25% were struggling with mental health issues, and 30% with substance abuse.