Overview

• Governor Maura Healey announced that all 32 hotel shelters housing families in Massachusetts will close by the end of summer 2025, six months earlier than planned.
• The shelter population has dropped below 5,000 families for the first time since July 2023, with projections suggesting further reductions to under 4,000 families this summer.
• State officials attribute the decline to stricter eligibility requirements, including proof of lawful immigration status, six months of state residency, and full criminal background checks.
• The number of hotels used as shelters has decreased significantly, from 100 in mid-2023 to 32 currently, as the state shifts focus to traditional shelters and permanent housing solutions.
• A recent audit revealed mismanagement of no-bid contracts for food and transportation services, prompting calls for improved procurement practices.