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 Gómez 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 Gómez 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 Conference Committee budget requests to the budget conferees (PDF) FY27 budget tracking chart Shareable link to chart: https://tinyurl.com/mchfy27 Take action: Sign and share our FY27 budget online actions to State Representatives and State Senators: Amendment cosponsorship requests to Senators, May 2026: Sign our one-minute online action to State Senators in support of key amendments (direct link: https://win.newmode.net/fy27senatebudget ) Amendment cosponsorship requests to Representatives, April 2026: Action now closed; thank you for taking action General budget support request to Representatives and Senators, March–June 2026: 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 Senate budget: Amendment overview for community members and advocates (PDF) Amendment overview to share with your State Senator (PDF) Key amendments to the FY27 House budget: Amendment overview for community members and advocates (PDF) Amendment overview to share with your State Representative (PDF) 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

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.

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.

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.

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!

Stay Informed with the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless! Sign up today to receive the latest news, updates, and alerts delivered directly to your inbox. Be the first to know about our advocacy efforts, upcoming events, and ways you can make a difference. Join Us Stay Informed with the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless! Sign up today to receive the latest news, updates, and alerts delivered directly to your inbox. Be the first to know about our advocacy efforts, upcoming events, and ways you can make a difference.

Take action now with the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless' 1 Minute Advocacy Actions. Support homelessness prevention and housing policies with just a minute of your time. Take Action Join us in making a difference! Take action today by reading our latest announcements and staying informed about our initiatives and action alerts.

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. Save the date and plan to join us for Legislative Action Day 2027! Sponsored by Representative Jim O'Day When Thursday, March 4, 2027 RSVP Registration for Legislative Action Day (LAD) 2027 will open soon. Missed it? Join our email alert list to get the LAD updates, training materials, and details about advocacy opportunities. Sign up today! Check out our 2026 event photo album here. 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! What to expect at our annual Legislative Action Day 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!

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

Make a difference today by donating to the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless. Support our mission and help us create a future where everyone has a place to call home. Ways to Give Donations help us to provide essential services and advocate for lasting solutions to the pressing issues of housing, income, health, education, and racial inequalities in Massachusetts. Join us in our fight to end homelessness and create sustainable solutions for families and individuals in need. Your generous donation can make a significant difference, providing essential resources, support, and advocacy to ensure everyone has a place to call home. Donate today and help us build a brighter, more stable future for all. Together, we can make a lasting impact. DONATE Your support funds the delivery of a brand new bed to a child in need of one. Your contribution now supplies a wooden bed frame and a brand new mattress. Grounded in our belief that a good night's in a comfortable bed can make all the difference to a child's life from their health to their academic success - sleep is fundamental. Join us in helping a student today. Support our mission to make dreams come true. DONATE Explore Our Ongoing Giving Initiatives Is my donation secure? Yes, our donation platform, powered by Harness, uses industry-standard security measures to protect your personal and financial information. Will I receive a receipt for my donation? Yes, you will receive an email confirmation and receipt immediately after your donation is processed. Can I make a recurring donation? Absolutely! You can choose to make a one-time donation or set up recurring donations on a weekly, monthly, or annual basis. What payment methods are accepted? We accept major credit cards, debit cards, and electronic checks. Specific options will be available at the payment step. Is my donation tax-deductible? Yes, donations are tax-deductible. Please keep your email receipt for tax purposes. How can I update or cancel my recurring donation? You can update or cancel your recurring donation by logging into your account on our donation platform or contacting our support team. How will my donation be used? Your donation will support our mission to end homelessness and create sustainable solutions. We allocate funds to various programs, services, and advocacy efforts that directly benefit those in need. Can I get a refund for my donation? Donations are generally non-refundable. However, if there was an error with your donation, please contact our support team to discuss your situation. Frequently Asked Questions Our 2023 Impact in Numbers Upgrade to remove watermark www.marketpushapps.com www.marketpushapps.com 20059 members engaged across our initiatives on our digital platforms 3683 households assisted through MCH's 4 programs across 298 communities 60900 hours of advocacy provided to 1981 households facing housing instablity 1702 children received healthy sleep education along with brand new beds Your donation can make a real difference in the lives of individuals and families living in poverty in our community.

Explore a collection of impactful reports on homelessness shared by the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless. Access valuable resources and insights from leading experts in the field. Reports and Resources Along with the dedication and support of our partners in ending and preventing homelessness, we have created this page to provide valuable information and reports on critical issues related to homelessness, poverty, sleep, and housing. This page aims to serve as a centralized location for accessing the latest research, data, and guidelines that can help inform and support individuals, families, and communities facing these challenges. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who have worked tirelessly to research, survey, and publish this information. Their efforts are crucial in making a positive impact and difference on the lives of many. Special Commission to Study Poverty Download A Shortage of Affordable Home 2025 Report Download The State of the Nations Housing 2025 Report Download Massachusetts Homeless Student Data 2023 Download Barriers to Obtaining ID and Assistance to Help Gain Access Download March of Dimes: Healthy Moms. Strong Babies. Download Massachusetts Youth Count 2022 Download The Gap: A Shortage of Affordable Homes Download Housing America's Older Adults 2024 Download Annual Homelessness Assessment Report Download Out of Reach The High Cost of Housing 2023 Download 2024 Kids Count Data Book Massachusetts Download Kids Count Report 2024 Download Greater Boston Housing Report Card 2023 Download Homeless Camping Ordinance Dispute Download Massachusetts State Plan to End Youth Homelessness 2018 Download Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance Programs Housing Inventory Download The State of Maternal and Infant Health for American Families Download Emergency Assistance Family Dashboard Download Homelessness in Greater Boston Download National Center for Homeless Education View

Help end homelessness in Massachusetts. Join the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless by donating, volunteering, or advocating for change. Every contribution makes a difference. Massachusetts Youth Count The Massachusetts Youth Count is a survey that gathers data on the needs and demographics of youth and young adults under the age of 25 who are experiencing homelessness and housing instability. The survey currently is administered every other spring. The Youth Count data informed the creation of the state's plan to end youth homelessness and continues to shape advocacy efforts and the development of targeted programs to provide stable housing and support services for young people. Massachusetts Youth Count 2026 The Massachusetts Youth Count is a biennial survey sponsored by the Massachusetts Unaccompanied Homeless Youth Commission to learn about the scope, needs, and demographics of youth and young adults under the age of 25 who are unstably housed or experiencing homelessness on their own, without their parents or guardians. The Youth Count partners with youth, young adults, providers serving youth and young adults experiencing homelessness, Continua of Care, and other community partners to conduct the survey. The Youth Count provides opportunities for young people to utilize their leadership skills in planning and administering the count, and for participants to connect to resources and services. The insights and data gathered from the survey process are used to influence advocacy and programming to address youth and young adult homelessness. Massachusetts Youth Count 2026 will be conducted this spring. If you are under the age of 25 and are unstably housed or experiencing homelessness, you can take the Youth Count survey between Wednesday, April 1st and Thursday, April 30th. Learn more by checking out the Youth Count 2026 flyer (PDF). The data from the 2024 Massachusetts Youth Count is available now at the link above. Your insights and experiences matter, and we can't wait to continue this important work with you! Download Download More about the Massachusetts Youth Count The Massachusetts Youth Count is a biennial survey conducted by the Massachusetts Unaccompanied Homeless Youth Commission (UHYC) to understand the needs and demographics of youth and young adults under the age of 25 who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability. The Commission 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. The 2026 Youth Count will launch on Wednesday, April 1st and will run until Thursday, April 30th. Learn more here . Learn More About the Commission and Youth Count Take action with MCH Today!