HEI began partnering with the State of Massachusetts in 2024 to provide shelter and stabilization services for migrant families who are experiencing homelessness. We are currently operating two emergency shelters in Middlesex County. Our dedicated team of site supervisors, housing and employment specialists, and case workers are connecting dozens of vulnerable families with the essential services they need to begin their new lives in Massachusetts and become contributing members of their new communities.
The Need:
According to the Office for Refugee Resettlement, the number of migrants served by the state of Massachusetts has grown by more than 1,042% over the past two years, from 1,018 in 2021 to 11,633 in 2023. The majority of migrants are fleeing extreme levels of severe, life-threatening conflict in Haiti and other countries around the globe.
![White text on a dark blue background that says "What is the Right to Shelter Law? Massachusetts' Emergency Housing Assistance Program, also known as the "Right to Shelter Law", guarantees homeless families with children or pregnant women access to temporary housing and emergency services.](/sites/default/files/styles/body_large/public/images/right%20to%20shelter%20law_0.png?itok=XH-rK75d)
Massachusetts is the only state in the United States with a “right to shelter” law. This law, combined with humanitarian parole programs and other legislation, has led many migrant families to seek shelter and safety in the state. However, the surge in migration has overwhelmed state-run services. In 2023, the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, which operates the state’s Emergency Family Shelter program, began seeking additional service providers to help meet the demand and ensure families receive quality services in a timely, efficient, and dignified manner. In alignment with our mission of serving the most vulnerable and our connection and commitment to the people of Haiti, HEI has been proud to become a partner in this important work.
Our Project:
HEI is drawing on our 40+ years of experience in successfully managing day-to-day operations and logistics at a facility serving vulnerable populations. We are committed to providing safe shelter to families of all backgrounds along with support services to help them achieve self-sufficiency and live independently.
Our service delivery model centers on our core values of equity, compassion, dignity, and cultural competency. We work in accompaniment with each family to design an achievable rehousing and stabilization plan that meets their unique needs and moves them toward the future they want for themselves.
Our slate of wraparound services focuses on helping clients secure appropriate housing, generate sustainable income, enroll their children in school, obtain adequate food and medical care, and access other necessities all people need and deserve to live stable and independent lives.
Strong, United Communities
HEI is working in partnership with the communities surrounding our shelters throughout every stage of this project. Building strong relationships with local leaders, organizations, and community members helps ensure our work contributes positively to these areas. These relationships also help our clients feel welcome, supported, and safe as they begin their new lives. Together, we are creating more vibrant communities where everyone can reach their full potential.