Explore how the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless is advocating for key bills and budget priorities. Join our efforts to create impactful changes in homelessness, housing, and benefit policy statewide. 2023-2024 Legislative Session Bill Priorities (January 2023–December 2024) 2023-2024 Legislative Session Bill Priorities (January 2023–December 2024) 2023-2024 bill priority overview fact sheet 2023-2024 bill priority chart Overall bill (and budget) endorsement form Strengthening the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program: Bill fact sheet , organizational endorsement form , and RAFT talking points for testimony Related resource: RAFT FY25 Administrative Plan & Scope of Services from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (July 2024) Expanding access to Mass. IDs for youth and adults experiencing homelessness: Bill fact sheet , organizational endorsement form , and testimonial statements Improving the Emergency Assistance family shelter and services program: Bill fact sheet and organizational endorsement form Establishing a bill of rights for people experiencing homelessness: Bill fact sheet and organizational endorsement form Codifying and strengthening the HomeBASE rehousing program: Bill fact sheet and organizational endorsement form Improving the Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children (EAEDC) cash assistance program: Bill fact sheet and organizational endorsement form Passing a strong Housing Bond Bill (the Affordable Homes Act, House Bill) and providing bridge subsidies to promote housing stability for low-income older adults: Bill text and status updates for House Bill 4138 Bridge subsidy bond bill fact sheet MCH testimony in support of the bill (January 2024 Making Chapter 257 eviction protections permanent: House bill text and status updates, Senate bill text and status updates , and testimony to the Joint Committee on the Judiciary (May 2023) Related update: The Legislature’s final FY24 budget includes an outside section, Outside Section 64, which would restore the Chapter 257 eviction protections that expired on March 31, 2023 and make the protections permanent. Governor Healey signed the language into law on August 9, 2023, so the protections are back in effect! Expanding access to legal counsel in eviction proceedings: Bill fact sheet Building in affordability requirements in the Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP): Bill text and status updates for House Bill 1300 , Senate Bill 870 , and Senate Bill 863 plus MCH testimony in support of the bills (July 2023) Establishing a housing secretariat: Bill text and status updates for House Bill 43 and MCH testimony in support of the bill (March 2023) Join Us in Uplifting Key Bill and Budget Priorities Support Our Efforts to Address Homelessness and Empower Communities! Recent Budget Priorities: Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Priorities FY25 budget priority overview fact sheet FY25 budget priority tracking chart Governor Healey’s FY25 budget recommendations, known as the House 2 budget (H.2), released on January 24, 2024 Overview of key FY25 budget amendments: Senate amendments, May 2024 Fact sheet on Senate Amendment #603 , “Clarifying Time Limit Implementation Date for Family Shelter,” from Senator Payano (May 2024) House amendments, April 2024 Launching a bridge subsidy program to promote housing stability for low-income older adults (Line Item 9110-XXXX, new line item under the Executive Office of Elder Affairs): Budget fact sheet See the related housing bond bill fact sheet linked above. Increasing cash assistance benefits for older adults, people with disabilities, and families with children participating in the Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children program (EAEDC, line item 4408-1000) and the Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children program (TAFDC, line item 4403-2000): Lift Our Kids Campaign budget fact sheet Permanently establish and improve the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) homelessness prevention program Lead Sponsors: Representative Marjorie Decker and Senator Brendan Crighton Bill Name: An Act providing upstream homelessness prevention assistance to families, youth, and adults Bill Numbers: House Bill 1488/Senate Bill 961 Bill Fact Sheet (PDF) Organizational Endorsement Form: tinyurl.com/raft2526 MCH Bill Testimony to the Legislature (PDF) Description: This bill would put the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) homelessness prevention program into state statute and ensure that benefits are available to families and individuals earlier in a housing or utility crisis ("upstream", before a household has received a notice to quit or utility shut-off notice). The bill also seeks to streamline access, improve cross-agency collaboration, and allow households to receive up to twelve months of assistance, without arbitrary dollar caps. (The current cap is $7,000/family/year, regardless of household size or rent burden). In addition, the bill would require theExecutive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) to publicly post reports on RAFT to increase transparency on how the program is operating and provide greater understanding of the families and individuals seeking RAFT assistance: how they are being referred, how many apply, how many are approved, how many are denied, what are their demographics, what are their rent and mortgage levels, what RAFT benefits they receive, and what is the housing status of participant households 6, 12, and 24 months after receiving financial assistance or services from RAFT. Ease access to standard Massachusetts ID cards for people experiencing homelessness by eliminating the $25 fee and allowing alternative ways to verify Massachusetts residency without requiring a permanent address Lead Sponsors: Representative Jim O’Day/Representative Sean Garballey and Senator Robyn Kennedy Bill Name: An Act to provide identification to youth and adults experiencing homelessness Bill Numbers: House Bill 3750/Senate Bill 2399 Bill Fact Sheet (PDF) Organizational Endorsement Form: tinyurl.com/massid2526 Letter to Senate Committee on Ways and Means Description: The Mass ID access bill (a.k.a. Everyone Needs ID bill) would ease access to Mass IDs for people experiencing homelessness by waiving the $25 fee for IDs and easing the verification requirements for youth and adults who are unhoused and seeking IDs. The bill would apply to standard Mass IDs, not REAL ID Act-compliant Mass IDs, for which residents must provide additional verification documents that meet federal standards. The Senate has unanimously passed versions of this bill in each of the past four sessions. Expand access to bridge subsidies for older adults across the Commonwealth who are experiencing housing instability Lead Sponsors: Representative Shirley Arriaga and Senator Pat Jehlen Bill Name: An Act promoting housing stability for older adults across the Commonwealth Bill Numbers: House Bill 4015/Senate Bill 475 Bill Fact Sheet (PDF) Bill Flyer (PDF) Organizational endorsement form: https://tinyurl.com/bridgesubs2526 Flyer for October 8, 2025 legislative briefing at the State House (PDF) Letter to the House Committee on Ways and Means Letter to Senate Committee on Ways and Means Description: This bill would expand the bridge subsidy program for low-income older adults, aged 60years and older, facing housing instability. A version of the program currently is funded as a pilot in the City of Somerville. The program would allow eligible older adults to remain in place while they await approval for long-term subsidized housing through programs such as the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP) and state-funded public housing. The bill also would create a steering committee to help guide the expansion of the bridge subsidy program. The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities would lead the steering committee, which would include key stakeholders such as older adults with lived experience of housing instability, providers, advocates, legislators, and a representative from the Executive Office of Aging and Independence. Ease access to the Emergency Assistance program (EA) and to create an ombudsperson unit to assist families applying for and participating in EA and HomeBASE Lead Sponsors: Representative Marjorie Decker and Senator Adam Gomez Bill Name: An Act improving emergency housing assistance for children and families experiencing homelessness Bill Numbers: House Bill 216/Senate Bill 136 Section-by-section bill summary MCH Bill Testimony to Legislature Description: This omnibus legislation would address access and administrative issues for families and children applying for or participating in the Emergency Assistance (EA) shelter program, temporary respite center program, and HomeBASE rehousing program. It would allow families who appear to be imminently at risk of homelessness to gain admission into EA shelter. It also would prohibit the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) from turning families away due to lack of documentation and would mandate EOHLC to look in existing state benefits databases to obtain requested documentation instead of delaying applications by requiring families to provide such documentation directly. In addition, the bill would require EOHLC to provide 90 days’ notice to the Legislature, program participants, and the public before altering program benefits or eligibility that would not benefit families. The bill also would officially establish an independent ombudsperson unit located within EOHLC to mediate between EA and HomeBASE applicants/participants and EOHLC. Establish a bill of rights for people experiencing homelessness Lead Sponsors: Representative Frank Moran and Senator Adam Gomez Bill Name: An Act establishing a bill of rights for individuals experiencing homelessness/An Act providing a bill of rights for people experiencing homelessness Bill Numbers: House Bill 274/Senate Bill 1120 Bill Fact Sheet Description: This bill would recognize and affirm various rights of people experiencing homelessness, such as the right to move freely in public spaces, the right to confidentiality of records, the right to privacy of property, and the right to register to vote and to vote. The bill would provide additional civil rights protections for people experiencing homelessness. The bill would affirm the right to rest, eat, pray, and be in public spaces by amending the Commonwealth's public spaces laws, amend the Commonwealth's voting laws to affirm the right to vote and register to vote without a permanent address, amend the Commonwealth's antidiscrimination laws to include housing status, and repeal archaic sections of Massachusetts General Laws regarding so-called "tramps," "vagrants," and "vagabonds." The bill would give the Superior Court jurisdiction to enforce the rights included in the legislation. Permanently establish and improve the HomeBASE family rehousing program Lead Sponsors: Representative Christine Barber and Senator Liz Miranda Bill Name: An Act promoting housing stability for families by strengthening the HomeBASE program Bill Numbers: House Bill 1469/Senate Bill 1011 MCH Bill Testimony to the Legislature (PDF) Description: This bill would put the HomeBASE program into state statute, direct the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to provide renewals of HomeBASE rental assistance to families and children who otherwise would be facing a return to homelessness, allow families to access HomeBASE upstream to maintain existing housing if they otherwise would be eligible for the Emergency Assistance family shelter program, and increase the maximum benefit levels to $50,000 over the first 24 months of the program and up to $25,000 in subsequent years for families needing additional time in the program. Improve the Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children program (EAEDC) Lead Sponsors: Representative Jim O'Day and Senator Pat Jehlen Bill Name: An Act relative to assisting elders and people with disabilities in the Commonwealth Bill Numbers: House Bill 278/Senate Bill 138 Bill Fact Sheet Description: This bill would improve the Department of Transitional Assistance’s (DTA’s) Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children program by ensuring that grants for participants experiencing homelessness are at the same level as the benefits for peers who have housing (putting the 2018 removal of the EAEDC homelessness penalty into statute), providing an annual cost of living adjustment for older adults and people with disabilities who are participating in EAEDC, and increasing grant levels to match the benefits provided under DTA’s Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children program (TAFDC). Allow cities and towns to stabilize rents and protect tenants Lead Sponsors: Representative Dave Rogers/Representative Sam Montaño and Senator Pat Jehlen Bill Name: An Act enabling cities and towns to stabilize rents and protect tenants Bill Numbers: House Bill 2328/Senate Bill 1447 Description: This bill would remove the statewide ban on rent control and establish a local option for cities and towns to regulate rents. If passed, cities and towns opting in would be able to limit annual rent increases and limit no fault evictions for certain dwelling units. The bill would limit annual rent increases for covered dwelling units to the change in the Consumer Price Index or 5%, whichever is lower. Fiscal Year 2026 State Budget Priorities (July 2025–June 2026) FY26 budget priority overview (PDF) FY26 budget chart Shareable link to chart: https://tinyurl.com/mchfy26 FY26 Conference Committee budget requests: Overview of key conference committee budget requests (PDF) The Coalition's letter to the budget conferees (PDF) One-minute online action to budget conferees and key legislators Action alert on key conference committee requests Key amendments to the FY26 Senate budget: Amendment overview to share with your State Senator Key amendments to the FY26 House budget: Amendment overview for advocates and community members Amendment overview to share with your State Representative One-minute online action to State Representatives to sign and share Action alert on key House budget amendments Campaign spotlight: Learn more about our FY26 budget campaign to expand access to bridge subsidies for older adults facing housing instability: Bridge subsidy budget campaign flyer (PDF) Previous Bill and Budget Priorities Fiscal Year 2024 General Appropriations Act Budget Priorities FY24 budget priority overview fact sheet FY24 budget priority chart Overall budget (and bill) organizational endorsement form Budget requests submitted to the FY24 budget Conference Committee (June 2023) FY24 Senate amendment overview sheet (May 2023) FY24 budget testimony submitted by the Coalition to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means (April 2023) Launching a bridge subsidy program to promote housing stability for low-income older adults (Line Item 9110-XXXX, new line item under the Executive Office of Elder Affairs): Budget fact sheet and organizational endorsement form Strengthening the HomeBASE rehousing program (Line Item 7004-9316): Budget overview and organizational endorsement form Improving the Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children cash assistance program (EAEDC, Line Item 4408-1000): Budget overview and organizational endorsement form Fiscal Year 2024 Supplemental Budget Priorities Adequately fund the Emergency Assistance family shelter program (Line Item 7004-0101) to provide traditional shelter or overflow shelter spaces to all eligible children and families (not capped at 7,500 families.) The Administration has told the Legislature that they need $225 million in supplemental funding for FY24 to continue to serve 7,500 families in shelters and hotels and to provide overflow shelter spaces to some of the families who have been approved for shelter but have been placed on a waiting list: $215 million directly for the EA program and $10 million for wraparound services. See Governor Healey’s related FY24 supplemental budget request, House Bill 4284 , released on January 24, 2024. It focuses on the Emergency Assistance family shelter program and housing and homelessness issues more broadly. Find details about the FY24 supplemental budget (signed into law on April 30, 2024) and the FY23 closeout budget (signed into law on December 4, 2023) in this supplemental budget comparison spreadsheet Take action with MCH Today! 2025-2026 Legislative Session Bill Priorities (January 2025–December 2026) 2025–2026 bill priority overview (PDF) and bill tracking chart

Help end homelessness in Massachusetts. Join the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless by donating, volunteering, or advocating for change. Your support can make a difference. Upgrade to remove watermark www.marketpushapps.com www.marketpushapps.com 19,141 People Experiencing Homelessness in MA 7000+ Families Experiencing Homelessness in MA $2500 Average Cost of Rent for a Two-bedroom Apartment in MA 700000+ People in MA are Currently Living in Poverty Providing brand new beds to low-income children throughout Massachusetts, ensuring they have a safe and comfortable place to sleep. A Bed for Every Child Initiative Go LEARN MORE Birth to Big Kid Initiative Working with expectant mothers living in poverty to teach safe sleep education and providing resources until their infants become toddlers. Go LEARN MORE The Casa Project Offering a one-stop comprehensive resource service and supporting families and individuals facing housing instability, displacement, and homelessness. Go LEARN MORE A Bed for Every Child Providing low-income children with brand new beds of their own all across Massachusetts. Providing low-income children with brand new beds of their own all across Massachusetts. A Bed for Every Child Advocating to for housing, benefits, and assistance for underserved populations throughout Massachusetts. Systemic Change Go LEARN MORE With Gratitude to Our Valued Sponsors Acknowledging those who help the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless make an impact in communities across the Commonwealth. 2024 Impact Report Your sustaining donation is a lifeline for those facing poverty. Join us in breaking the cycle and building brighter futures for individuals and families across the state. The mission of the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless is to create lasting solutions to housing, income, health, education, and racial inequalities in all parts of the Commonwealth. 2025 Annual Appeal

Stay updated on the Emergency Assistance Program with the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless. Discover our efforts to protect emergency shelter access for families statewide. Support Families Experiencing Homelessness and Protect the Right to Shelter. Join us in our mission to ensure that every child in Massachusetts has a safe place to sleep. Take Action With Us Updates and Data on the Emergency Assistance (EA) Program Follow this page for updates, data, reports, and resources related to the Emergency Assistance (EA) family shelter program. Dashboard Link The dashboard generally is updated each week, and includes information on how many families currently: Are participating in the EA program Were placed in shelter within the last 24 hours Are staying in traditional shelter placements and in hotels/motels In hotel/motel placements are supported by social service providers, National Guard members, or are without provider supports (when applicable) Are staying in each city/town, broken down into cities and towns hosting 1-50 families, 51-200 families, and over 200 families We continue to advocate with the Administration for additions to the dashboard, including data on how many families have been approved for EA and are on the waiting list and how many families on the waiting list are staying in overflow and safety-net shelter sites directly operated or funded by the state. Emergency Assistance Statewide Placement Data Dashboard Link Additional Emergency Assistance Family Shelter Documents and Resources Final report of the Commonwealth's Special Commission on Emergency Housing Programs (a.k.a. Emergency Assistance Commission), approved on November 19, 2024 Slides from the Emergency Assistance Commission meetings Meeting #1: July 18, 2024 Meeting #2: August 19, 2024 Meeting #3: September 16, 2024 Meeting #4: October 15, 2024 Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities Division of Housing Stabilization staff Field Operations staff contact list as of September 2025 (PDF) Organizational chart as of September 2025 (PDF) 2025 December 1, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report November 17, 2025 biweekly EA report November 3, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report October 20, 2025 biweekly EA report October 6, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report September 22, 2025 biweekly EA report September 8, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report August 25, 2025 report August 11, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report July 28, 2025 report July 14, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report June 30, 2025 report June 16, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report June 2, 2025 report May 19, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report May 5, 2025 report April 22, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report April 7, 2025 report March 24, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report March 10, 2025 report February 24, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report February 10, 2025 report January 27, 2025 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report January 13, 2025 report 2024 December 30, 2024 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report December 16, 2024 report December 2, 2024 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report November 18, 2024 report November 4, 2024 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report October 21, 2024 report October 7, 2024 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report September 23, 2024 report September 9, 2024 biweekly EA report and monthly Temporary Respite Center report August 26, 2024 report August 12, 2024 biweekly EA report plus a new monthly Temporary Respite Center report July 29, 2024 report July 15, 2024 report July 1, 2024 report June 17, 2024 report June 3, 2024 report May 20, 2024 report May 6, 2024 report April 22, 2024 report April 8, 2024 report March 25, 2024 report March 11, 2024 report February 26, 2024 report February 12, 2024 report January 29, 2024 report January 16, 2024 report January 1, 2024 report 2023 December 18, 2023 report Updated Emergency Assistance Family Shelter Reports As part of the supplemental budget passed on December 4, 2023, the Healey Administration is required to provide updates to the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Ways and Means every two weeks on the Emergency Assistance (EA) family shelter program and the state’s response to families experiencing homelessness (including both longer-term Massachusetts residents and newly arrived immigrant families). See Chapter 77 of the Acts of 2023, line item 1599-0514 and Chapter 88 of the Acts of 2024, Section 19 . As we receive copies of the reports as submitted, we will post them here. Some of the reports also are available on the Legislature’s website on the Reports and Communications page . Take action with MCH Today!

Help end and prevent family homelessness in Massachusetts. Join the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless as we take action to ensure everyone has a place to call home. Protect Access to Emergency Assistance Family Shelter Learn more about our advocacy to protect and improve the Commonwealth's Emergency Assistance (EA) family shelter program, a state-funded program that provides emergency shelter, rehousing supports, and other resources to eligible families with children under the age of 21 and/or a pregnant household member #HousingisaHumanRight #EndHomelessnessMA Join Us to Protect Families’ Access to Shelter Since November 2023, Governor Healey and the Legislature have taken steps to reduce access to shelter for children and families experiencing homelessness, moving away from the state's 40-year history of honoring the right to shelter for families. Take action with us to restore the right to shelter and improve access to upstream homelessness prevention resources and long-term deeply affordable housing. Take Action Today! Recent and Upcoming Advocacy Opportunities: Join us in person and online for more actions to protect the right to shelter: Upcoming Actions: Check back soon or join our mailing list by clicking here Recent Actions: Wednesday, February 12th: Please join us in asking State Senators to swiftly provide supplemental funding for Emergency Assistance (EA) shelter and to adopt key budget amendments on access to Emergency Assistance (EA) shelter and temporary respite centers. Learn more about key Senate amendments here: https://tinyurl.com/senate-ea-supp Call-in day to State Senators, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Visibility action at the State House, 10:30–11:30 a.m. We will meet in front of the Senate Chamber on the 3rd Floor. RSVP to let us know you can join us: https://tinyurl.com/ea-event-rsvp Thursday, February 6th: Visibility action at the State House 10:30–11:30 a.m. to call on the Legislature to swiftly provide needed supplemental funding for shelter and services for children and parents experiencing homelessness and to reject the Governor's proposals to further limit access to Emergency Assistance (EA) shelter. We also will be asking Representatives to cosponsor and actively support key supplemental budget amendments, which are scheduled to be voted on that day. Learn more about key House amendments here: https://tinyurl.com/house-ea-supp Monday, February 3rd–Thursday, February 6th: Call-in days to state legislators, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. each day, asking them to swiftly provide supplemental funding for Emergency Assistance shelter and to reject the Governor's proposals to further limit access to EA. Call script and details: https://www.mahomeless.org/_files/ugd/6c63ec_e38e87e26977473cb9f80dddb5ff46bd.pdf Thursday, January 16th: "The People's State of the Commonwealth: Spotlight on Family Homelessness" action: 12:00–1:00 p.m. in front of the Massachusetts State House Call-in day to legislators: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Call script and more details Tuesday, November 12th: Monitoring the next meeting of the state's Special Commission on Emergency Housing Assistance Programs, 10:00–11:30 a.m. at the Massachusetts State House in Room 157 or on Zoom: Agenda, meeting details, and Zoom link Tuesday, October 15th: Monitoring action: 1:00–2:30 p.m. in Room 157 of the State House (or on Zoom) at the next meeting of the state’s Special Commission on Emergency Housing Assistance Programs Visibility action: We will start the hour in front of Governor Healey's office on the third floor and end the hour with a procession past key rooms on that floor, including the House Chamber, Senate Chamber, office of the Senate President, and office of the House Speaker. Monday, September 16th: Rally: 4:30–5:30 p.m. on the Boston Common at the Embrace Memorial and the 1965 Freedom Plaza Guest speakers will include Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune and Reverend Mariama White-Hammond of New Roots AME Church, Dorchester. Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CP2ho4SY5RmZjy6V9 Monitoring action: 1:00–2:30 p.m. in Room 157 of the State House (or on Zoom) at the next meeting of the state’s Special Commission on Emergency Housing Assistance Programs Agenda, meeting details, and Zoom link Thursday, September 5th: State House action, 12:30–1:30 p.m. We will start the hour in front of Governor Healey's office on the third floor and end the hour with a procession past key rooms on that floor, including the House Chamber, Senate Chamber, office of the Senate President, and office of the House Speaker. Tuesday, August 20th: Virtual action hour online, 12:00–1:00 p.m. Monday, August 19th: Visibility action : 12:00–1:00 p.m. in front of the McCormack Building, 1 Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108 before the next convening of the Special Commission on Emergency Housing Assistance Programs Monitoring action : 1:00–2:30 p.m. inside the McCormack Building, 1 Ashburton Place, 21st Floor, Boston, MA 02108 (or on Zoom) at the next meeting of the state’s Special Commission on Emergency Housing Assistance Programs Agenda, meeting details, and Zoom link Wednesday, August 14th: Candlelight vigil in front of the State House, 7:00–8:00 p.m. Learn more about the Emergency Assistance Family Shelter Program Emergency Assistance (EA) program information from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) Emergency Assistance biweekly reports and other data from EOHLC Family homelessness, Emergency Assistance, and overflow shelters in the news November 2024 recommendations from the Coalition to the state's Special Commission on Emergency Housing Assistance Programs November 2023 recommendations from the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless, Massachusetts Law Reform Institute, Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association, and the Moving Beyond the Emergency Working Group to the Administration and Legislature Are you an advocate, case manager, or social worker interested in learning more about the Massachusetts Emergency Assistance Family Shelter Program? Click here to access the comprehensive guide on Emergency Shelter and Rehousing Services for Families with Children Experiencing Homelessness in Massachusetts. View Advocacy Guide Take action with MCH Today!

Read the Privacy Policy of the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless to understand our commitment to privacy, data protection, and transparency as a statewide nonprofit. Privacy Policy Your Privacy Matters. Browsing The Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless (“MCH, the Coalition”) understands that privacy is an important concern to members of our community. You can visit most portions of the Coalition website without telling us who you are and without revealing any personal information. The only information we collect from a normal web site visit is the IP address of the computer being used to visit our site, the browser and type of machine being used, the web site that referred that computer to us, the pages requested and the date and time they were requested. We use this information to generate statistics and measure site activity to improve the usefulness of the site to our visitors. Collection of Personal Information Online Data: The Coalition may collect email addresses and other personally identifiable data about visitors when such data is voluntarily submitted on the site. All such information is collected and stored in a manner appropriate to the nature of the data. If you choose to make an online contribution to the Coalition, we will collect information necessary to accept and process your donation and send you a receipt. This information may include your name, address, telephone number, email address, and credit card information. All donations made online and off-line, are not exchanged or sold with any other organizations. We use a number of security measures to protect your information. We limit access to only those people necessary to ensure that the website is functioning correctly. Sensitive data such as credit card information is additionally protected through encryption. Servers that contain sensitive information are maintained in secured facilities. Donor Information Exchange: For all donations made online and off-line, are not exchanged or sold with other organizations. Third Party Information Collection and Disclosure Practices Coalition web pages may contain hyperlinks to websites operated by third parties. The Coalition does not control the content or privacy practices of those sites. You expressly acknowledge and agree that such third parties may employ information collection and/or disclosure practices that differ from those of Coalition. The Coalition does not make any warranties or representations concerning the information collection and/or disclosure practices of such parties.

Since 1981, the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless has been committed to ending homelessness through advocacy, support, and systemic change. Learn more about our mission and impact About Us The mission of the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless is to create lasting solutions to housing, income, health, education, and racial inequalities in all parts of the Commonwealth. Our Vision At the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless, our vision is a Commonwealth where everyone has a safe, stable, and dignified place to call home. We envision a future where homelessness is rare, brief, and nonrecurring, and where systemic barriers to housing and income are addressed through collaborative solutions. Through advocacy and innovation, we strive to create a Massachusetts where all individuals and families living in poverty can thrive. Our Core Values Dignity and Compassion We honor the lived experiences of those impacted by homelessness and approach all our work with empathy, respect, and a belief in the inherent dignity of every person. Prevention and Systemic Change We prioritize upstream solutions that prevent homelessness before it begins and advocate for long-term policy changes that address the root causes of poverty and housing instability. Advancement and Equal Access We believe that housing is a human right, and that addressing homelessness requires a deep commitment to creating opportunities and advancing social inclusion. Accountability and Impact We are data-informed and results-driven, committed to continuously improving our work and delivering measurable, meaningful outcomes. Collabortation and Community We believe lasting change is only possible through authentic partnerships with community members, service providers, legislators, and those with lived experience. Our Programs A Bed for Every Child: Helps children to obtain a place to dream, learn healthy sleep habits, and improve academic performance. Launched in 2012, A Bed for Every Child is one of a few resources in the state that utilizes a holistic approach to create a stable and nurturing environment for children living in poverty. Birth to Big Kid Initiative: Works to reduce infant mortality by providing cribs and safe sleep education to low-income expectant mothers, focusing on prenatal and childhood development. Since 2022, MCH has partnered with hospitals and health centers across Massachusetts to assist pregnant mothers with safe sleep education approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Birth to Big Kid is the only initiative in Massachusetts that supports families from prenatal stages through toddlerhood. The Casa Project: Helps low-income families and individuals avoid displacement or becoming unsheltered by providing upstream preventive resources and support. For over 20 years, MCH has utilized an upstream homeless prevention approach, ensuring that over 30,000 households in Massachusetts could have obtained a place to call home. Statewide Systemic Change: Advocates on behalf of underserved populations and communities across Massachusetts. For over 40 years, MCH has propelled vital efforts that have led to lasting positive impacts such as securing funding for RAFT, the Massachusetts YOUth Count, and strengthening the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act in the Commonwealth. Our 2023 Impact in Numbers Upgrade to remove watermark www.marketpushapps.com www.marketpushapps.com 30123 Members engaged across our initiatives on our digital platforms 2287 Households obtained or retained housing 70898 Hours of advocacy provided 2259 Children received beds and learned sleep education Your donation can make a real difference in the lives of individuals and families facing homelessness in our community. Consider giving today!

Read the Privacy Policy of the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless to understand our commitment to privacy, data protection, and transparency as a statewide nonprofit. Terms and Conditions Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless SMS Assistance Program Purpose We will send text messages to assist with your request, provide updates, and respond to your inquiries. No marketing or promotional messages will be sent. Frequency Message frequency varies based on your needs. Charges Message & data rates may apply. Check with your mobile carrier for details. Opt Out Reply STOP to any message to stop receiving texts from us. You will get a confirmation message. You can re-enroll at any time. Help Reply HELP to any message for assistance, or contact us at: 781-595-7570 or via email Supported Carriers Our program works with most major U.S. carriers but may not be available in all areas. Changes We may update these Terms from time to time. Updates will be posted on this page with a revised date. Privacy Policy We respect your privacy and will only use your information to provide the services you requested. We do not sell or share your phone number with third parties. Your data is stored securely and only accessible to authorized staff. You may request that we delete your information at any time by contacting us. For questions about this policy, contact us via email or by calling 781-595-7570

Make a meaningful impact by getting involved with the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless. Discover volunteer roles, advocacy & youth engagement initiatives, in-kind donation drives, and ways to support our mission Get Involved There are many other ways to support the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless beyond monetary donations. You can volunteer your time and skills, organize a drive to collect much-needed items for those experiencing homelessness, engage youth in educational and awareness-raising activities, and lend your voice and support to our advocacy efforts. Build a Bed Project Strengthen your team and support a worthy cause through our sponsored team-building activity. Join us in building beds for children on A Bed for Every Child's waitlist, a rewarding experience that brings your team together and makes a meaningful impact. Our experienced team will take care of all the logistics, from setting up the event to providing the necessary tools and materials. Simply gather your team and get ready to bond and build together. By participating in this event, your team will not only grow closer but also leave with the satisfaction of knowing you've helped provide a comfortable sleep environment for a child in need. If you're interested in boosting team morale while supporting a worthy cause, contact Tina to learn more and schedule your team bonding experience. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community, one bed at a time! Corporate Giving Corporate sponsorship can make a huge difference to MCH. This funding can be used to support programs, services, and operational costs. Increased Visibility: Partnerships with corporations can increase the visibility and credibility of a non-profit, helping to raise awareness about their cause and reach a wider audience. Resource Sharing: Corporations can provide non-profits with resources such as volunteers, expertise, and access to their network, helping to amplify their efforts and increase their reach. Sustainability: Corporate sponsorships can provide a steady source of income, allowing non-profits to plan and execute long-term projects and ensure their sustainability. Community Engagement: By partnering with corporations, non-profits can engage with the local community, fostering a sense of social responsibility and encouraging others to get involved and support their cause. Internship Opportunities Join the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless in our mission to combat homelessness across the state. Based in Lynn, Massachusetts, our internship program offers unique opportunities in statewide advocacy, legislative initiatives, and community organizing. This role is perfect for those passionate about social justice and seeking hands-on experience in public policy and grassroots movements. Help us make a difference in the lives of thousands. Apply now to be part of our dedicated team working towards a future without homelessness. Contact us to learn more. Volunteer Opportunities Volunteering with the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless offers you a chance to directly impact the lives of individuals. and families facing homelessness. Your time, skills, and compassion can create ripples of change, fostering hope and providing essential support to those in need. Contact us to learn more. In-Kind Donation Drives Help supply Sweet Dream Kits which consist of brand new bedding can transform a bed from a mere sleeping place to a haven of comfort. We gratefully accept: New Sheets and blankets New Stuffed animals Gently used Books Contact Tina for a drop-off location, a community drive flyer, and guidelines for giving. Youth Making an Impact Consider organizing drive at your school, place of worship or with community groups that you frequently visit, i.e. the YMCA, dance, scouts, and activity classes. Drive Ideas: New Blankets New Pillows New Hats and Gloves New Children Books If you are interested in organizing a drive, please fill out the form below and a member of our team will get in contact with you. First name* Last name* Email Join our Mailing List Be at the forefront of change by joining the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless mailing list. Receive updates on our latest actions, initiatives, and events directly to your inbox. Staying informed means you’re always ready to lend your voice, support, and time to causes that matter. Together, we can continue to fight homelessness and build a community of support and advocacy. Sign up today and be part of our journey towards making a tangible difference in the lives of many. LEARN MORE The Build a Bed Project LEARN MORE Strengthen your team and support a worthy cause through our sponsored team-building activity. Join us in building beds for children on A Bed for Every Child's waitlist, a rewarding experience that brings your team together and makes a meaningful impact. If you're interested in boosting team morale while supporting a worthy cause, contact Tina to learn more and schedule your team bonding experience. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community, one bed at a time! LEARN MORE Corporate Sponsorships LEARN MORE This funding can be used to support programs, services, and operational costs. Community Engagement: By partnering with corporations, non-profits can engage with the local community, fostering a sense of social responsibility and encouraging others to get involved and support their cause. LEARN MORE In-Kind Donations LEARN MORE Help supply Sweet Dream Kits which consist of brand new bedding that can transform a bed from a mere sleeping place to a haven of comfort. We gratefully accept: New Sheets and blankets New Stuffed animals Gently used Books LEARN MORE Internship Opportunities LEARN MORE Join the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless in our mission to combat homelessness across the state. Based in Lynn, Massachusetts, our internship program offers unique opportunities in statewide advocacy, legislative initiatives, and community organizing. This role is perfect for those passionate about social justice and seeking hands-on experience in public policy and grassroots movements. LEARN MORE Youth Making an Impact LEARN MORE Help supply Sweet Dream Kits which consist of brand new bedding that can transform a bed from a mere sleeping place to a haven of comfort. Consider organizing drive at your school, place of worship or with community groups that you frequently visit, i.e. the YMCA, dance, scouts, and activity classes. We gratefully accept: New Sheets and blankets New Stuffed animals Gently used Books Your donation can make a real difference in the lives of individuals and families facing homelessness in our community.

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Help end homelessness in Massachusetts. Join the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless by donating, volunteering, or advocating for change. Every contribution makes a difference. Your sustaining donation is a lifeline for those facing poverty. Join us in breaking the cycle and building brighter futures for individuals and families across the state. With Gratitude to Our Valued Sponsors 2023 Impact Report Acknowledging those who help the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless make an impact in communities across the Commonwealth.

Get in touch with the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless via our online contact form. Contact us for questions about donations, sponsorships, support, and assistance. Contact Thank you for reaching out to the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless. We are here to help! Please take a moment to review our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). If you still need assistance after reviewing the FAQs, feel free to fill out our contact form Contact us First name Last name Email* Phone Company name Subject Message* Submit 73 Buffum Street Lynn, MA 01902 781-595-7570 Frequently Asked Questions Does the Coalition offer any furniture assistance? Unfortunately, we no longer provide furniture assistance, as our furniture bank closed down in 2021. If you're looking for furniture for yourself or a client, we recommend reaching out to a local furniture bank. Please call first before visiting to confirm their hours, donation policies, and available services. New Life Furniture Bank of MA Address: 102 Elm Street, Walpole, MA 02081 Phone: (774) 316-6395 Website: www.newlifefb.org Fresh Start Furniture Bank Address: 16 Brent Drive, Hudson, MA 01749 Phone: (508) 485-2080 Website: www.freshstartfurniturebank.org Household Goods, Inc. Address: 530 Main Street, Acton, MA 01720 Phone: (978) 635-1710 Website: www.householdgoods.org Mission of Deeds Address: 6 Chapin Avenue, Reading, MA 01867 Phone: (781) 944-9797 Website: www.missionofdeeds.org The Wish Project Address: 166 Middlesex Street, North Chelmsford, MA 01863 Phone: (978) 441-9474 Website: www.thewishproject.org Amvets Thrift Stores Address: Multiple locations across Massachusetts Phone: Varies by location Website: www.amvets.org Lazarus House Ministries, Inc. Address: 412 Hampshire Street, Lawrence, MA 01841 Phone: (978) 689-8575 Website: www.lazarushouse.org House to Home Address: 55 Martha Road, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 Phone: (508) 693-5566 Website: www.housetohomefurniturebank.org Does the Coalition offer any shelter services? We do not provide shelter services directly. To find a shelter in your area, please visit the Massachusetts government’s emergency shelter page: Find Emergency Shelter . Does the Coalition offer financial assistance for rent or utility arrears, first, last, and security deposits? No, we do not provide direct financial assistance for housing costs. If you need financial help, we recommend contacting your local housing consumer education center to start the application process for RAFT (Residential Assistance for Families in Transition): Mass Housing Info . I need a bed for my children. How can I get one? At A Bed for Every Child, we are committed to providing twin mattresses and frames to children across Massachusetts who need them. If you need assistance, a referral can be made for your child through their guidance counselor, teacher, caseworker, or physician. To make a referral, please visit our website: Request a Bed . Please note that due to high demand, there is currently a waitlist of 45-60 days. What should I do if I’m facing a housing emergency or know someone who is? If you are experiencing a housing emergency, please visit our Get Help page to learn about the resources available, how to apply, and where to go for assistance: Get Help . Can I donate money to a specific program or cause? Yes, you can choose to designate your donation to a specific program, such as A Bed for Every Child, or to our general fund, which supports all our programs and services. Please indicate your preference when making your donation. What types of donations does the Coalition accept? We are currently only able to accept new items, such as bedding, pillows, and pajamas, which are distributed directly to children in need through our A Bed for Every Child program. Please check our webpage for a complete list of accepted items and donation guidelines.

Explore how the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless is making systemic change through advocacy and public policy initiatives, driving solutions to end homelessness statewide Making Systemic Change The Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless has a rich history dating back to the early 1980s as a leader in the fight to prevent and end homelessness here in the Commonwealth. The agency is steadfast in our belief that homelessness can be resolved by ensuring access to safe, affordable, permanent housing for the lowest income households and providing opportunities for families, individuals, and youth to build economic stability. Current Overall Bill and Budget Priorities LEARN MORE Housing and Benefits Committee Meetings LEARN MORE Legislative Action Day 2025 LEARN MORE LEARN MORE Your endorsement matters. Reach out us today to become an organizational or individual endorser and play a pivotal role in our collective action towards ending homelessness. LEARN MORE Unity in Action: Strengthen Massachusetts’ Response to Homelessness Join us at the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless as we fight to end homelessness through targeted public policy efforts. Our mission spans preventing homelessness, ensuring housing stability, providing emergency services, and promoting economic stability and human rights. Your involvement can drive change. Reach out to our policy team and take action today to help build a future where everyone has a home. Let's make a difference together. No amount is too small when it comes to making a difference. Support the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless' mission by donating today! Take action Today! Sign one of our alerts below. Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors Acknowledging those who uplift our efforts addressing the root causes of homelessness through advocacy, policy reform, and community collaboration. 2024 Impact Report Preventing and Ending Youth Homelessness The Massachusetts Youth Count is biannual survey conducted by the Massachusetts Unaccompanied Homeless Youth Commission to understand the needs and demographics of homeless or unstably housed youth under 25. It partners with young people, service providers, and community organizations to conduct the survey, offering leadership opportunities and connecting participants to resources. The data collected informs advocacy and programming to address youth homelessness. LEARN MORE TAKE ACTION TODAY! Protect Access to Emergency Family Shelter Stay updated on the Emergency Assistance Program with the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless. We are actively working to protect emergency shelter access for families in crisis across Massachusetts. Recent policy changes have put many vulnerable families at risk, potentially leaving children without a safe place to sleep. Please take action to uphold the Commonwealth's 40 year commitment to providing shelter and services to children and families experiencing homelessness. Emergency Assistance Program Updates