Massachusetts Faces Migrant Crisis, Strains Local Resources

As shelters reach capacity, residents open homes to migrants amid concerns over state's unique right-to-shelter law.

Massachusetts' unique right-to-shelter law exacerbates the migrant crisis, with residents and officials expressing concern over the strain on local resources.
Residents in Massachusetts, particularly in Brookline and Roxbury, are opening their homes to migrants as state shelters reach capacity.
Critics argue the practice of hosting migrants in private homes raises ethical concerns, likening it to indentured servitude.
Governor Maura Healey's administration is working to provide work authorizations for migrants and has launched a pilot program for longer-term housing.
The state's efforts to manage the migrant crisis include repurposing public facilities and seeking additional federal assistance.