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.

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 advocating for key bills and budget priorities. Join our efforts to create impactful changes in homelessness, housing, and benefit policy statewide. Join Us in Uplifting Key Bill and Budget Priorities Support Our Efforts to Address Homelessness and Empower Communities! 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) 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 the Senate Committee on Ways and Means Letter to the House 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 2829 (formerly Senate Bill 1011) Bill Fact Sheet 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 2027 State Budget Priorities (July 2026–June 2027) FY27 budget priority overview (PDF) FY27 budget tracking chart Shareable link to chart: https://tinyurl.com/mchfy27 ** Take action: Join with us today to work to strengthen the FY27 budget by signing our one-minute online action to legislators** Key amendments to the FY27 House budget: Amendment overview for community members and advocates (PDF) Amendment overview to share with your State Representative (PDF) Take action: Sign our one-minute online action to State Representatives in support of key amendments (direct link: https://win.newmode.net/fy27housebudget ) FY27 budget testimony to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means: Written testimony on investments and language related to bridge subsidies for older adults and the Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children program Written testimony on investments and language related to the Emergency Assistance program, the HomeBASE program, and the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition program Oral testimony from the Coalition, starting at the 38:13 mark Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC) program: Budget campaign fact sheet from the Lift Our Kids Coalition (PDF) Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) program: Budget campaign fact sheet from the Lift Our Kids Coalition (PDF) Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program: Cookie Day 2026 advocacy event flyer (PDF) 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 community members and advocates (PDF) Amendment overview to share with your State Representative (PDF) 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

Discover the Birth to Big Kid Initiative by the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless, providing healthy sleep solutions and maternal support to promote family well-being. Birth to Big Kid Initiative The Birth to Big Kid Initiative utilizes the lens of prenatal, infant, and early childhood development to reduce infant mortality through safe sleep education. Our mission is to ensure that infants from low-income households have a safe and secure place to sleep, grow, and thrive. Fostering safe sleep and early childhood development for healthier beginnings. The Birth to Big Kid Initiative partners with health care entities across Massachusetts, the program assists expectant mothers living in poverty. For two years through a data-driven approach, The Coalition gathers information to improve the wellbeing of mothers, infants, and toddlers by providing safe sleep education approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics, individualized support, access to resources, and items such as cribs and other material needs. By partnering with the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless, you help ensure every infant has a safe place to sleep —get involved with our initiative today. Meaningful Collaborations Birth to Big Kid X Casa Project The integration of The Casa Project and the Birth to Big Kid Initiative creates a tangible, family-centered response to poverty and disparities. It works toward the advancement of early childhood development while focusing on the prevention of housing instability, homelessness, and displacement. By combining safe sleep education and homelessness prevention, we offer a holistic approach that prevents infant mortality and housing instability, beginning before birth and continuing through toddlerhood. With a focus on low-income expectant mothers, the initiative partners with hospitals and health centers to provide material items and identify proactive interventions that prevent instability for mothers and infants. This unique and upstream programming integration utilizes a service delivery model that ensures expectant mothers, infants, and children have the stability and resources they need to grow up safely and stably housed. Whether it's a crib for a newborn, housing advocacy for a family facing eviction, a bed to transition a toddler out of the crib, or connection to resources in the community, this programming integration assists families at every critical stage. Referring Partners Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors Acknowledging those who help our Birth to Big Kid Initiative promote safe sleep practices and provide essential resources to families living in poverty across the Commonwealth. 2024 Impact Report

Explore the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless in the news. Stay informed about our latest initiatives and media coverage as we work to address homelessness across the state. Social Media and the News Click on the links below to access the articles and resources referenced on our social media pages, as well as media coverage of the Coalition’s work. We also invite you to follow us on across social media at the links below. Links and Latest News June 11, 2025: Take action: Join us today to work to strengthen the FY26 Conference Committee budget Shareable link to our online action – https://tinyurl.com/fy26confbudget Read more in our latest action alert - https://conta.cc/3FRQVY4 May 12, 2025: Take action with us tomorrow to support a key bill to improve the Emergency Assistance (EA) family shelter program April 24, 2025: Action alert – Please ask your State Rep to cosponsor and actively support key homelessness prevention, housing, and cash assistance amendments to the FY26 House budget. Shareable link to our online action – https://tinyurl.com/fy26housebudget April 23, 2025: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our April meeting are here . March 26, 2025: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our March meeting are here . February 26, 2025: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our February meeting are here . December 11, 2024: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our November/December meeting are here . October 23, 2024: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our October meeting are here. Action alert – Participate in an online listening session this Friday to help shape the recommendations of the Emergency Assistance Commission, and more! September 25, 2024: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our September meeting are here. August 16, 2024: Invitation – Join us in person and online for more actions to protect the right to shelter. Details and RSVP form for August 19th and August 20th events August 12, 2024: Invitation – Join us at the State House this Wednesday, August 14th, 7–8 p.m. for a candlelight vigil to protect access to shelter for children and families. More details below the online action on this page: https://mahomeless.org/protect-access-to-shelter/ August 3, 2024: Boston Globe Article: Shelter policy is cruel and harmful August 2, 2024: Action alert: Join us to protect families’ access to shelter July 25, 2024: Invitation – Join us at the State House or in Springfield next Monday to protect access to shelter for children and families July 24, 2024: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our July meeting are here. July 5, 2024: Invitation – We are participating in the Target Circle program! You can vote for us and help direct Target’s giving to benefit the Coalition’s A Bed for Every Child program. Learn more and vote here now until September 30th: Target Circle June 5, 2024: Invitation – Follow the House of Representatives debate on the housing bond bill: livestream link June 4, 2024: Action alert – Please ask your State Rep to cosponsor and actively support key amendments to the housing bond bill May 29, 2024: Action alert – Thanks for your advocacy in support of key FY25 Senate budget amendments! Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our May meeting are here . May 17, 2024: Advocacy opportunity – Please ask your State Senator to cosponsor and actively support Amendment 603 from Senator Pavel Payano to clarify the start date for Emergency Assistance Family Shelter time limits. Help ensure children and families have the additional time needed to secure housing before losing vital shelter benefits: Fact sheet and one-minute online action on this amendment and other key amendments April 22, 2024: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our April meeting are here . April 19, 2024: Action alert – Please sign our new one-minute online action to encourage your State Rep to cosponsor key FY25 budget amendments. March 27, 2024: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our March meeting are here . March 22, 2024: Invitation – Join us at the State House next Tuesday, March 26th for the Joint Committee on Ways and Means public hearing on the FY25 budget! If you would like to provide oral testimony to the committee, sign up here by Monday, March 25th at 5 p.m. March 20, 2024: Action alert – Please ask your State Senator to cosponsor key amendments to the supp budget to better serve families experiencing homelessness March 19, 2024: Thank you note/action alert – Thank you for being part of Legislative Action Day. Our advocacy together continues. March 1, 2024: Invitation – Volunteer with us at the State House next Thursday at Legislative Action Day 2024! Learn more and sign up today to be part of our event-day team February 27, 2024: Invitation – Join us tomorrow for our pre-event Legislative Action Day training and sign up to join us at the State House next Thursday February 20, 2024: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our February meeting are here . January 24, 2024: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our January meeting are here . December 20, 2023: Action alert – Participate in our organizational sign-on letters on the new Emergency Assistance regs and procedures plus take action to support the Everyone Needs ID Mass ID access campaign December 15, 2023: Advocacy opportunity – Weigh in with Housing and Livable Communities on their new Emergency Assistance family shelter regulations and guidance December 13, 2023: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our November/December meeting are here . December 6, 2023: Action alert – Great news: The Legislature passed the supplemental budget and the Governor signed it into law! December 1, 2023: Supplemental budget update: We are back at the State House today, encouraging legislators to do all they can to swiftly pass the compromise supplemental budget, which was released by House and Senate leadership yesterday. The compromise bill includes $250 million to address family homelessness issues as well as language to require the Administration at least one overflow shelter site for families who have been placed on the waiting list for longer-term shelter placements. Read more at https://tinyurl.com/right-to-shelter November 21, 2023: Advocacy update – Thank you to everyone who joined us for our candlelight vigil at the State House and at local solidarity events to support children and families experiencing homelessness! Vigil videos and photos: Google Photos album Keep up the pressure at the State House: Weigh in with State Legislators to push for swift passage of $250 million in supplemental funding for family shelters and services plus language to require the Healey Administration to create overflow shelter spaces to serve all families put on the Emergency Assistance family shelter waiting list. See our November 17th action alert for a call script and call details. November 17, 2023: Invitation – Please join the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless, Massachusetts Law Reform Institute, and allied organizations for a candlelight vigil this Monday, November 20th, 4–5 p.m. in front of the Massachusetts State House to show support for families and children experiencing homelessness and to call on state leaders to establish overflow shelter sites for families on the waiting list for longer-term shelter placements. Read more here and RSVP here . Boston Globe letter to the editor from the Coalition – Mass. right-to-shelter law collides with harsh reality November 6, 2023: Invitation – Please join us for a legislative briefing on the Mass ID access bill this Thursday, November 9th! October 25, 2023: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details here . October 24, 2023: Action alert – Join us in protecting the right to shelter for children and families October 12, 2023: Action alert – Mass ID Access Action: Please sign and share our online action to House leaders on expanding access to Mass IDs for people experiencing homelessness! September 27, 2023: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details here . September 21, 2023: Action alert – Please join us for an important bill hearing next Wednesday to codify MRVP and create an Access to Counsel program! September 6, 2023: Action alert – Please join us for an important bill hearing next Tuesday to improve the EAEDC program! August 23, 2023: Action alert – Mass ID Access Action: Please sign and share our latest online action to House leaders on expanding access to Mass IDs for people experiencing homelessness ! Plus direct link to online action Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details here. August 21, 2023: WBUR coverage – State places homeless families in unstaffed sites, raising safety concerns August 15, 2023: Axios coverage – Advocates urge lawmakers to spend remaining federal COVID aid on shelter crisis August 11, 2023: Action alert – Sign our joint statement on the Governor’s family homelessness emergency declaration plus take action on the FY24 budget July 26, 2023: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details here . July 19, 2023: WBUR coverage – In new strategy, state asks locals to host unhoused. June 23, 2023: WBUR coverage – Mass. expands services for homeless families, opening intake center and shelter at Joint Base Cape Cod June 21, 2023: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details here . June 20, 2023: Action alert – Please join us for an important bill hearing next week: Support legislation to improve the RAFT, HomeBASE, and Emergency Assistance programs on Monday, June 26th! June 14, 2023: Action alert – Take action to prevent and end homelessness: Join with us today to work to strengthen the FY24 Conference Committee budget plus direct link to our one-minute online action to legislators June 6, 2023: Action alert – Please plan to join us for two important bill hearings next week: Support the #EveryoneNeedsID Mass ID access bill, bill of rights, and Emergency Assistance bills on Tuesday, June 13th! May 25, 2023: Action alert – FY24 budget update: Thank you for asking your State Senator to cosponsor and actively support key FY24 budget amendments! May 23, 2023: Livestream link to watch Day 1 of the FY24 Senate budget debate , link to our FY24 budget tracking chart , and invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details here. May 17, 2023: One-minute online action – Join us by signing our online action to your State Senator and Senate leaders to strengthen the fiscal year 2024 Massachusetts state budget May 8, 2023: Action alert – Join us at the State House or online tomorrow to support key bills on eviction protections, access to counsel, and eviction record sealing! April 28, 2023: One-minute online action: Please sign and share our new online action to State Senators and Senate Leaders to strengthen the FY24 budget! April 26, 2023: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details here. April 24, 2023: Advocacy resource – The Coalition’s FY24 budget tracking chart, with a new column (Column D), where we will share updates and outcomes from the House budget debate April 21, 2023: One-minute online action – Join us by signing our online action to your State Representative and House leaders to strengthen the fiscal year 2024 Massachusetts state budget plus see our related action alert April 10, 2023: Boston Globe article – “Mass. House leaders to propose making eviction protection measure permanent” plus link to the online Chapter 257 action to legislators April 7, 2023: Action alert – Two quick updates: Participate in Monday’s Ways & Means Committee hearing on FY24 budget and sign our updated online action to restore Chapter 257 eviction protections April 4, 2023: Action alert – Provide testimony at the Ways and Means Committee hearing on the FY24 budget this Monday, April 10th! Sign up to testify here. March 31, 2023: WBUR interview –“How the end of a pandemic-era protection against eviction impacts Mass. residents” plus link to our one-minute online action to legislators March 30, 2023: Join us on for Homes for Families’ “Cookie Day” events to advocate for the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program. Register here for the Tuesday, April 4th Zoom event. There also will be a rally and legislative meetings at the State House on Wednesday, April 5th. March 29, 2023: Invitation – RSVP today for Friday’s Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. More details about our March meeting are here. March 28, 2023: Boston Globe article – “As evictions climb in Mass., one last measure to prevent them expires Friday “ plus letters of support from Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell (PDF) and Boston City Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune (PDF) March 27, 2023: Testimony – The Coalition’s testimony in support of House Bill 43, An Act to create the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities and rename the Executive Office of Economic Development , presented to the Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight March 26, 2023: Salem News, Gloucester Times, and the Daily News of Newburyport article – “Advocates seek further eviction protections” March 25, 2023: WBUR newsletter – “The clocking is winding down on a Mass. eviction prevention policy hailed by advocates” March 23, 2023: Action alert – Keep up the momentum: Sign our new one-minute online action to extend important eviction protections! Plus join us for a legislative hearing on creating a new Executive Office focused on housing. Additional links: Direct link to online action and details on the hearing. March 13, 2023: Action alert – Take the next step to extend important eviction protections for tenants with pending rental assistance applications! Be part of a new organizational sign-on letter from the Coalition and Massachusetts Law Reform Institute to extend Chapter 257 eviction protections beyond March 31st. Direct link to sign-on letter . March 9, 2023: Livestream link to watch the Senate debate on the FY23 supplemental budget March 8, 2023: Action alert – Join us in welcoming Julia Garvey, our new Community Organizer/Legislative Advocate, and take action to extend important eviction protections! plus direct link to online action from our colleagues at Lynn United for Change. February 13, 2023: Action alert from February 9th – Please take action today by asking your State Representative and Senator to cosponsor priority bills on housing and homelessness. Register for Legislative Action Day 2023, too! February 5, 2023: Pediatrics Journal advocacy case study: “Community-academic advocacy to improve shelter access for families experiencing homelessness ” (PDF); video abstract and additional materials on the American Academy of Pediatrics website February 4, 2023: MassLive articles – “Mass. shelters prepare to help unhoused during ‘dangerously cold’ temperatures” and “Boston’s South Station to open for homeless as ‘dangerous arctic blast’ arrives in Mass.” January 25, 2023: Happening this week! Please join us online this Friday, January 27th for our first Housing and Benefits Committee meeting of the new year. Check out the agenda and details here. January 6, 2023: We are continuing to accept applications for our Community Organizer/Legislative Advocate position on a rolling basis. Read more and apply today! December 23, 2022: Daily Hampshire Gazette obituary: We pause to honor and remember former State Representative Stephen Kulik , who passed away over the weekend. December 22, 2022: WBUR coverage – “In record numbers, families without shelter are turning to Massachusetts emergency departments” December 15, 2022: WBUR coverage – “Advocates question conditions at shelter for families experiencing homelessness” December 9, 2022: The Coalition is hiring a new Community Organizer/Legislative Advocate! Please read and share our posting and see the posting on our website . November 2, 2022: Radio Boston segment – “The latest on families placed in emergency housing in hotels in Methuen and Plymouth” October 19, 2022: Action alert – Thank you for your efforts thus far to restore upstream access to the RAFT homelessness prevention program October 17, 2022: There’s still time to participate in our email action to legislators to restore upstream access to the RAFT homelessness prevention program. Also check out the related organizational sign-on letter we delivered today to legislators and Baker Administration officials, which includes 167 organizations and municipal officials. October 13, 2022: Boston Globe coverage of the campaign to restore upstream access to the RAFT homelessness prevention program – “Mass. fended off a feared wave of evictions for two years, but with aid drying up, some worry it’s coming soon” September 30, 2022: Join us in taking action to restore upstream access to the RAFT homelessness prevention program. Participate as an organization or an individual: Sign-on letter for organizations and email action to legislators for individuals July 27, 2022: Action alert – Take action today to strengthen the economic development bill, plus there’s still time to sign our FY23 budget action letter to Governor Baker July 25, 2022: Action alert – Participate in our online action to ask Governor Baker to keep key housing and homelessness funding and provisions in the FY23 Budg et July 20, 2022: Action alert – Take action today to strengthen the economic development bill: Please ask your State Senator to cosponsor and actively support key housing and homelessness amendments July 12, 2022: Action alert – Take action today to strengthen the economic development bill: Please ask your State Rep to cosponsor and actively support key housing and homelessness amendments June 29, 2022: Email alert to State Senators – Take action to repeal archaic and derogatory statutes on people experiencing homelessness: Please cosponsor and actively support Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 2956 June 15, 2022: Action alert – Take action to prevent and end homelessness: Join with us today to work to strengthen the FY23 Conference Committee budget June 1, 2022: Online action – Everyone Needs ID: Sign our online action to push for passage of the Mass ID access bill! May 27, 2022: Action alert – Thank you for strengthening the Senate budget outcomes! See how key budget amendments on housing, homelessness prevention, and cash assistance fared in the final FY23 Senate budget. May 19, 2022: Action alert – Please keep up the calls and emails to State Senators in support of key Senate budget amendments on housing, homelessness prevention, and cash assistance! April 25, 2022: Action alert – Take action! There’s still time to encourage your State Representative to cosponsor and actively support key housing stability, shelter access, and cash assistance amendments to the FY23 budget April 19, 2022: Action alert – Take action! Please encourage your State Representative to cosponsor and actively support key housing stability, shelter access, and cash assistance amendments to the FY23 budget April 12, 2022: Video from today’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) press conference, where the Coalition and allies called on the Baker Administration and Legislature to stop the April 15th cuts to ERAP. Special thanks to all of the speakers and organizers, and shout outs to the Massachusetts Public Health Association for filming the press conference and to Homes for All Massachusetts for posting the video! April 8, 2022: Action alert – Emergency Rental Assistance Program advocacy: Join the Coalition and allies for a press conference as we call on the Baker Administration and Legislature to stop the April 15th cuts to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) March 31, 2022: Action alert – Weigh in today or tomorrow with the Joint Committee on Ways and Means to actively support deeper rental assistance, housing stability, and benefits program investments in the FY23 budget March 30, 2022: WBUR Radio Boston coverage of the winding down of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) and advocacy to continue it – “The return of live music, and the end of pandemic-era rental assistance” March 28, 2022: Action alert – Next steps: Please ask your State Legislators to actively support key rental assistance and housing stability provisions in the compromise FY22 supplemental budget plus updated amendment chart with Senate outcomes March 24, 2022: Follow along as the State Senate debates its version of the FY22 supplemental budget: livestream link March 22, 2022: Take action with us to expand rental assistance, tenant protections, and homeowner resources in the Senate version of the FY22 supplemental budget! Chart of key Senate amendments ; link to find out who your State Senator is and their contact information March 17, 2022: Action alert – Find out what is happening with efforts to expand rental assistance in the FY22 supplemental budget and join us in taking action! and check out the Senate Ways and Means version of the supplemental budget, Senate Bill 2776 , released this afternoon March 16, 2022: Join the advocacy efforts on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) and read the Baker Administration’s March 15th ERAP announcement March 9, 2022: Action alert – Take action this morning! Please ask your State Representative to cosponsor and actively support Amendment #39, Access and Equity in Homelessness Prevention, in the FY22 supplemental budget March 1, 2022: Action alert – Two days to go! Sign up today to join us online for the Coalition’s Legislative Action Day this Thursday, March 3rd February 19, 2022: It’s time to invest more in housing stability: Supplement the FY22 budget January 28, 2022: Action alert – See how housing and homelessness issues fared in the Governor’s FY23 budget proposal and take action with us to strengthen the budget January 26, 2022: Governor Baker’s fiscal year 2023 budget proposals January 24, 2022: Sign up today for Legislative Action Day 2022: Registration link and more details January 18, 2022: Free at-home COVID-19 test kits from the federal government: Website in English ; sitio web en español; test kit order form in English ; formulario de pedido de pruebas en español January 12, 2022: Good news on the Everyone Needs ID bill to expand access to Mass IDs for people experiencing homelessness December 27, 2021: State House News/MassLive coverage of the state’s planned scaling back of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) and the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program – “New checks on Massachusetts emergency rental aid draw protests “ December 23, 2021: CommonWealth Magazine coverage of scaling back of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program – “Mass. to start trimming back housing assistance in Jan.” December 22, 2021: Thank you to everyone who participated in our organizational sign-on letter to state leaders to avoid negative changes to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). See the final letter and endorser list . December 17, 2021: Please sign and share our organizational sign-on letter to state leaders on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program: State leaders must act with urgency to allocate additional funding for emergency rental assistance instead of curtailing benefits December 1, 2021: Please join us for our monthly Homeless Youth Providers Engaging Together (HYPET) meeting on Thursday, December 9th! November 17, 2021: Public Health & Human Rights for Mass. and Cass Coalition recommendations letter and Boston Globe article: “Mayor Wu says city will pause removals of unhoused people at Mass. and Cass while lawsuit pending” November 13, 2021: Massachusetts Latino News Network Opinion+ interview on the Coalition’s work on the issues of homelessness and housing instability November 10, 2021: Action alert – Take action! Please contact your State Senator today to ensure maximum investments in housing, homelessness prevention, and cash assistance programs in the COVID-19 recovery budget. October 27, 2021: Action alert – Take action! Please contact your State Rep today to ensure maximum investments in housing, homelessness prevention, and cash assistance programs in the COVID-19 recovery budget. October 22, 2021: Join us online next Friday, October 29th, at our monthly Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. See the meeting agenda and details and RSVP today! October 18, 2021: Details for this week’s Unity in Diversity event, hosted online by Merrimack College . We will be part of a panel discussion, “Engaging Diverse Communities through Activism and Advocacy”, this Wednesday, October 20th between 2:00-3:15 p.m. October 13, 2021: Join us online this Friday, October 15th for an important virtual State House hearing on key homelessness legislation October 8, 2021: Action alert – Join us for two important virtual State House hearings next week. October 6, 2021: Join us online next Tuesday, October 12th for an important virtual State House hearing on key housing and homelessness legislation. The Housing Committee will be taking testimony on key bills related to HomeBASE, RAFT, MRVP, and right to counsel. Read more here. September 29, 2021: Happening now: Virtual hearing on income and food security issues in front of the Joint Committee on Children, Families, and Persons with Disabilities, including the Lift Our Kids bill (House Bill 199/Senate Bill 96.) Watch the hearing here . Participate in the next public hearing of the Commission on Structural Racism in the Massachusetts Probation Service, scheduled for this Friday, October 1st at 1 p.m. Read more here. September 23, 2021: RSVP to join us online tomorrow at our monthly Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. September 21, 2021: Training opportunity – Sign up now to join us for an online training on assisting families experiencing homelessness September 8, 2021: The Coalition is hiring for our next Community Organizer/Legislative Advocate! Please check out our job description and help us spread the word. August 27, 2021: Join us in thanking Marwa and saying farewell to her, plus take action to support swift passage of the COVID-19 Housing Equity bill August 5, 2021: Details on the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Housing August 12th hearing on House Bill 1434/Senate Bill 891 , legislation to prevent evictions and foreclosures and promote housing equity during the ongoing pandemic and the upcoming recovery August 3, 2021: Breaking news: The CDC has instituted a new eviction moratorium. Read for preliminary details plus updates on veto overrides and federal relief funds July 30, 2021: Advocates, Baker admin. officials press for stimulus spending on housing, job training July 22, 2021: Join us in asking your State Rep and Senator to swiftly override the Governor’s FY22 vetoes and reject amendments on homelessness and benefits programs: July 21st action alert and online action to sign and share Join Homes for All Massachusetts and the Coalition in reaching out to State Legislators to push for swift passage of the COVID-19 Housing Equity bill (House Bill 1434/Senate Bill 891) July 20, 2021: Livestream of the Legislature’s first hearing on how to invest new federal recovery funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) July 15, 2021: Information about advance Child Tax Credit payments for tax year 2021 from the IRS July 14, 2021: Action alert – The Legislature unanimously approved the FY22 Conference Committee budget, and the budget is now on the Governor’s desk. July 9, 2021: FY22 state budget chart, updated with details from the Conference Committee June 29, 2021: Supreme Court rejects request to lift federal ban on evictions June 25, 2021: The CDC has extended its nationwide COVID-19 eviction moratorium until July 31st: New York Times coverage and the text of the CDC order June 9, 2021: Be part of Massachusetts Youth Count 2021! June 3, 2021: Register to join the Massachusetts delegation for the National Alliance to End Homelessness’ virtual Capitol Hill Day 2021 on Wednesday, June 16th! June 3, 2021: Joint Committee on Housing informational hearing on the Eviction Diversion Initiative June 1, 2021: Action alert – Weigh in with Senate Ways and Means in support of ongoing housing protections and read our update on homelessness and housing issues in the final FY22 Senate budget May 25, 2021: Senate budget email action to Senators and link to watch today’s Senate budget debate May 20, 2021: Advocates for homeless on alert as state of emergency winds down (State House News/WBUR) May 19, 2021: Send an email to your State Senator urging them to cosponsor and support key FY22 budget amendments May 17, 2021: “Mass. to ease mask mandate, lift all other COVID restrictions May 29; end state of emergency June 15” May 11, 2021: Senate Committee on Ways and Means FY22 budget recommendations and the Coalition’s FY22 budget chart May 1, 2021: “No one knew we were homeless”: New relief funds fuel efforts to find students lost during virtual school April 30, 2021: 2021 Massachusetts Youth Count details April 26, 2021: House FY22 budget debate video April 22, 2021: Send an email to your State Representative urging them to cosponsor and support key FY22 budget amendments April 14, 2021: House Ways and Means FY22 state budget recommendations on housing, homelessness, and cash assistance programs

A Bed for Every Child is dedicated to giving children in need a better night's sleep and a brighter future. Support our mission to provide beds to kids across Massachusetts. A Bed for Every Child A Bed for Every Child is committed to ensuring that every child in Massachusetts has a safe and comfortable place to sleep and dream. Launched in 2012, as an initiative of the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless, our mission is simple yet essential: provide beds to children in need in hopes of improving their quality of life and chances of success in the classroom. Supporting low-income children across Massachusetts Partnering with public school districts, health centers, hospitals, community organizations, the Department of Children and Families, faith-based groups, teachers, and case managers the program provides children in low-income households with new beds and essential items. Each year, over 1,500 beds are delivered directly to children's homes. We also educate parents and caregivers on healthy sleep practices to support children's academic success in efforts to ensure that as they continue to grow they utilize education to help break the cycle of poverty. A study found that 40% of children and adolescents in the U.S. experience sleep insecurity, which is associated with poor academic performance and behavioral issues Quality sleep is vital for youth as it aids in physical growth, mental development, and emotional health. Proper sleep enhances concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills, enabling children and teens to perform better in school and social situations. Additionally, sleep helps regulate mood and stress, promoting overall well-being. Learn more by downloading our sleep resource pdf today. Sleep Tips & Resources For every $350 raised, a complete bed goes out into the community. No amount is too small when it comes to making a difference. Support our Mission Today. Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors Acknowledging those who help A Bed for Every Child provide beds completely free of charge to low income children all across the Commonwealth. 2023 Impact Report Interested in partnering with A Bed for Every Child? Click the button below or call 781-595-7570 x16 to learn how you and your team can help support their future by sponsoring a team-building event with us. Contact Team building with a purpose. Sponsor and build beds with your team by participating in our meaningful initiative: the Build a Bed Project Through the simple act of building beds, we provide a fundamental need to children who have gone without a bed to call their own. It's a place for rest, for dreams, and for a sense of security. And for your team? It's a chance to step out of the office, work together in new ways, and see the direct result of your collaboration and care. Learn More

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!

Discover how the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless is addressing housing and benefits issues. Engage with us at our Advocacy Committee Meetings to contribute to meaningful change Advocacy Committee Meetings The Coalition hosts monthly Housing and Benefits Committee meetings where advocates, providers, people with lived experience, and other stakeholders come together to discuss the Coalition's public policy campaigns and exchange information on new programs, resources, and legislative updates. Topics The presentations at this meeting focus on topics related to homelessness, poverty, and benefits issues. When Anticipated Upcoming Dates: February 27, 2026 March 27, 2026 April 24, 2026 May 29, 2026 June 26, 2026 July 31, 2026 No August meeting September 25, 2026 October 30, 2026 December 11, 2026 (combined November/December meeting) RSVP You can RSVP for the next monthly meeting right online by filling out our registration form here. Can't make it? Join our Housing and Benefits mailing list to have meeting materials and advocacy opportunities delivered right to your inbox. Please Join Us We invite you to join our informative meetings, held on the last Friday of each month, with a break in August and a combined session in mid-December to cover both November and December. The goal of this meeting is to improve your understanding of the legislative process and discuss avenues for advocacy from allied organizations. Since March 2020, all meetings have been conducted via Zoom. Below, you'll find specific dates and a link to RSVP for the next Housing and Benefits Committee meeting. RSVP TODAY Take action Today! Interested in sharing your expertise or insights? We're actively seeking presentations on housing, homelessness, poverty, and benefits issues from allied organizations. Connect with us and contribute to our community's knowledge and growth. Submit your presentation ideas today! CONTACT No amount is too small when it comes to making a difference. Support MCH's work by donating today!

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 The mission of the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless is to create lasting solutions preventing and ending homelessness in all parts of the Commonwealth.  2024 Annual Appeal 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.

Discover the Casa Project by the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless, offering homelessness prevention, housing stabilization and flexible services to support individuals and families statewide. The Casa Project The Casa Project is an upstream homelessness prevention program that provides wraparound individualized services that secure housing stability for families and individuals. Every year, we assist over 1,800 households, working under the mission of ensuring everyone has a place to call home. Are you or someone you know on MassHealth and experiencing homelessness? Learn More For over 20 years this one-stop service model has addressed housing instability and prevented displacement and homelessness for thousands of families, individuals, older adults, young adults, and children across the Commonwealth. Our Casa Housing Advocates empower, serve, and educate households facing housing issues, helping them overcome barriers, and secure resources to remain stably housed. Upgrade to remove watermark www.marketpushapps.com www.marketpushapps.com 2287 Households Assisted in Addressing Financial Barriers 1981 Households Assisted in Preventing Housing Instability 70898 Hours of Advocacy Provided $198,457 Secured in Funding to Address Housing Instability. Meaningful Collaborations Birth to Big Kid X Casa Project The integration of The Casa Project and the Birth to Big Kid Initiative creates a tangible, family-centered response to poverty and disparities. It works toward the advancement of early childhood development while focusing on the prevention of housing instability, homelessness, and displacement. By combining safe sleep education and homelessness prevention, we offer a holistic approach that prevents infant mortality and housing instability, beginning before birth and continuing through toddlerhood. With a focus on low-income expectant mothers, the initiative partners with hospitals and health centers to provide material items and identify proactive interventions that prevent instability for mothers and infants. This unique and upstream programming integration utilizes a service delivery model that ensures expectant mothers, infants, and children have the stability and resources they need to grow up safely and stably housed. Whether it's a crib for a newborn, housing advocacy for a family facing eviction, a bed to transition a toddler out of the crib, or connection to resources in the community, this programming integration assists families at every critical stage. HRSN Services Support As part of the newly launched MassHealth Health-Related Social Needs (HRSN) initiative, the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless provides critical homelessness prevention services to MassHealth members with complex health and housing needs. Our HRSN services are designed to reduce health disparities, promote long-term housing stability, and support the well-being of vulnerable populations across the Commonwealth. Through this program, MCH supports individuals who are at high risk of housing and nutrition insecurity, many of whom are frequent users of emergency services and live with chronic health conditions. As the largest HRSN housing services provider in Massachusetts, MCH partners with 14 of the state’s 17 Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), delivering housing stabilization services to 13 ACOs and both housing and nutrition support to 1 ACO. Partnering with these contracted ACO's: Community Care Cooperative Fallon Health- Atrius Health Care Collaborative Fallon Health – Reliant Medical Group ACO Mass General Brigham ACO Revere Health Choice Tufts Health Together with Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) Tufts Health Together with UMass Memorial Health East Boston Neighborhood Health WellSense Alliance WellSense BACO WellSense Beth Israel Lahey Health (BILH) Performance Network ACO WellSense Boston Children’s ACO WellSense Mercy Alliance WellSense Southcoast Alliance WellSense Signature Alliance As the state of Massachusetts continues to transform the Flex Services Program into the new framework of the Health Related Social Needs (HRSN), we are actively equipping our agency in the process of becoming a Managed Care Entity (MCE). This transition will enable us to continue serving members referred by ACO's, providing support in housing and nutrition, and becoming a Hub for these services. Click here to reach out to a member of MCH's team is you would like to collaborate with MCH and the Casa Project. Our program's services support the needs of collaborating entities that refer households from healthcare facilities to obtain assistance from The Casa Project. These are our collaborating entities: Brockton Neighborhood Health Center Codman Square Health Center Dimock Center DotHouse Health Greater Lawrence Family Health Center Greater Roslindale Medical and Dental Center Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center Lynn Community Health Center Manet Community Health Center Mattapan Community Health Center New Bedford Community Health Center North Shore Community Health South Boston Community Health Center Upham's Corner Health Center To learn more visit: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/masshealth-members-who-need-assistance-with-food-or-housing Local and Regional Contract Work The Casa Project engages in contracted work with community-based organizations and municipal entities. Currently, Casa is partnering with: City of Boston Office of Housing Stability, Town of Lexington Youth and Family Services Division Lynn Public Schools Minuteman Senior Services Mystic Valley Elder Services Get help from the HRSN Program Get Help with Health-Related Social Needs Support MCH's Casa Project offers services in partnership with MassHealth as well as several ACOs to help individuals who are experiencing challenges with homelessness, housing instability, and unhealthy living conditions. To be considered for eligibility you must be a Massachusetts resident on MassHealth. How to Apply: Fill out our quick referral form, and a team member will contact you to determine what services you qualify for. Submit Referral Participating Partnerships Load More Our 2023 Impact in Numbers Every dollar counts in the fight against homelessness. Support the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless and make an impact on the lives of those in need. Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors Acknowledging those who help our Casa Project offer homelessness prevention and housing stabilization resources to the Commonwealth's most vulnerable households. 2024 Impact Report

Join us for Legislative Action Day, hosted by the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless. Collaborate with advocates, legislators, and community leaders to develop and promote legislative solutions to homelessness. Your voice and action can help shape a better future for those in need. Legislative Action Day We hope you will join us for the Coalition’s next Legislative Action Day (LAD) at the Massachusetts State House. Our annual LAD event brings together community members, advocates, providers, and legislators to take action to address and end homelessness across the Commonwealth. In the morning, participants will hear from powerful speakers who will share their lived experiences and insights on key budget and bill priorities related to housing, homelessness prevention, cash assistance, and safety net benefits. In the afternoon, participants will meet with legislators and staff members to advocate for investments and policy changes to ensure everyone in Massachusetts has a safe and permanent place to call home. Thank you for joining us for Legislative Action Day 2026! Sponsored by Representative Jim O'Day When Thursday, March 5, 2026 RSVP Registration for Legislative Action Day (LAD) 2026 is now closed. Stay tuned for our announcement for Legislative Action Day 2027. Missed it? Join our alert list to get the invite, training materials and advocacy opportunities. Sign up today! Check out our event photo album here. What to expect at our annual Legislative Action Day Check out our 2026 event flyer (PDF) and please share it with others in your community and in your network. During the event, we will focus on the Coalition’s current legislative (bill) priorities and fiscal year budget priorities. Here are our 2026 event agendas: agenda in smaller font size (PDF) and agenda in larger font size (PDF). While the agenda in the smaller font size is in the participant folders, we also will have printed copies of the agenda in the larger font size at the registration desk. Read about our 2025-2026 bill priorities here (PDF) and here (bill chart). Read about our Fiscal Year 2027 budget priorities here (PDF) and here (budget chart). Here are print-ready versions of the complete participant packet (PDF) and complete legislator packet (PDF). As a key part of the event you will also be encouraged to meet virtually or in-person with legislative offices. During the registration process, MCH will ask if you need help setting up meetings with your legislators, and if so, we will work to set up appointments for you. You are provided with a training and materials to share with the legislators and staff and during the meetings, you pick a few of our priorities we spoke about in the morning session that are most important to you and let legislators and staff know why. Here are some other tips for meeting with legislators and State House staff. How can you help make this event a success? Volunteer to Be Part of the LAD Event Team Interested in being a Legislative Action Day volunteer? Sign up today to be part of our LAD event team! (Shareable link: https://tinyurl.com/lad26vol ) Spread the Word Help spread the word by sharing the link to this page: https://tinyurl.com/mchlad2026 . Invite your friends, colleagues, community members, and state legislators. Unsure who your legislators are? If you have an address, enter it in this tool from the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office . Join Us for the Pre-Event Training Leading up to Legislative Action Day 2026, we hosted a pre-event training on Monday, February 23rd, 1:00–2:00 p.m. In case you missed it, here are the slides we shared . Share Feedback on Your Legislative Meetings After meeting with legislators and/or legislative staff members, please let us know how your meetings went by filling out this feedback form (PDF). An online version can be found here. Share Your Event Photos and Videos If you have event pictures and videos to share, please send them to Kelly (email address below). For more information, please contact Kelly or Julia: kelly @ mahomeless. org and julia.garvey @ mahomeless. org (without spaces). Thank you! Interested in sharing your story and expertise to advocate for change? We are actively seeking speakers with lived experiences of homelessness, housing instability, and/or participation in state-funded benefit programs issues to be part of Legislative Action Day, legislative briefings, and other advocacy events. Your story and expertise can help shape public policy and make change. Connect with us and learn more today! CONTACT Our hearts are filled with gratitude for all of your support for our March 7th Legislative Action Day at the State House! Thank you to all the attendees for joining us in the fight to end homelessness. We had 200 people with us: families, youth, and adults with lived experience of homelessness, providers, advocates, and legislators all speaking up for solutions to homelessness, housing instability, and poverty, and taking action to ensure that everyone has a place to call home. A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY SPEAKERS! We are SO incredibly grateful for advocates, people with lived experience of housing instability and homelessness, and our nonprofit partners who shared their stories and remarks on the importance of addressing housing and homelessness issues NOW. Read Kelly & Julia's heartfelt THANK YOU letter to all involved LEARN MORE Learn more about the legislative process and advocacy opportunities by watching MCH's online Legislative Advocacy 101 Training Video LEARN MORE Take action Today! No amount is too small when it comes to making a difference. Support MCH's work by donating today!

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.