Boston's latest initiative to quickly provide stable housing and jobs for families in emergency shelters takes off today, as the Healey-Driscoll administration partners up with eight resettlement agencies across Massachusetts. This move, backed by a budget passed last December and signoff from Governor Maura Healey, aims to directly connect immigrant families with vital resources to enable a smooth transition into the community.
These resettlement groups stand to benefit from state funding, aiming to swiftly exit families from shelters and assist them in securing permanent homes and employment opportunities. "Resettlement agencies have long played a critical role in helping families in Massachusetts get connected with housing, jobs and other critical resources," Governor Healey shared in a statement obtained by the official state news outlet. The partnership is expected not just to meet immediate needs, but also to bolster the state's community and economy.
Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll lauded the agencies for their expertise in integrating families into towns and neighborhoods throughout the state. According to an official press release, Health and Human Services Secretary Kate Walsh voiced appreciation for the agencies' ongoing work, pledging continued support and welcoming efforts for the new Massachusetts residents.
Contributing to efforts that aim to cement long-term success for newcomers, Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus highlighted the need to address the particular requirements of those who have fled violence and instability in their home countries. "The partnership announced today between the state and resettlement agencies will support to uniquely meet the needs of new arrivals," said Augustus in a statement.
The contracted resettlement agencies include the Ascentria Community Services, Catholic Charitable Bureau of the Archdiocese of Boston, Jewish Family Service of Metrowest, and others, as detailed on the state website. They are well-prepared, having years of experience under their belts, to partner with the state administration and extend their expertise to the latest wave of immigrants, explained Jeff Thielman, President and CEO of the International Institute of New England, in a press release.
These agencies are no strangers to providing comprehensive support to immigrants, as they also hold contracts for delivering legal services and case management for individuals seeking work authorization. The key aim is to pioneer pathways that will not just lead to housing stability, but will also enrich the fabric of local communities with the diversity and skills these new residents bring.
