Over 100 migrants were seen sleeping on the floors of Logan Airport in Boston, highlighting the increasing strain on the city's homeless shelter system. Over 300 serious incidents were reported in shelters this year, sparking concerns about the safety of migrants.
Over 100 migrants were recently spotted sleeping on the floor of Boston's Logan International Airport, marking a significant increase in the number of arrivals witnessed in recent weeks. The surge has placed enormous pressure on Massachusetts's already strained homeless shelter system, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of migrants.
As per a report by the Boston Herald, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities has disclosed a total of 316 "serious incident" reports at shelters participating in the Emergency Assistance (EA) family shelter program. While EA is not specifically designed for migrant shelters, migrant families are eligible for its services.
Migrant Surge Burdens Boston's Homeless System, Raising Safety Concerns
Jessica Vaughan, Director of Policy Studies at the Center for Immigration Studies, expressed alarm over the high number of incidents, calling it a "huge failure" and a "massive waste of taxpayer money." She emphasized that the state is failing to provide a safe environment for migrants seeking shelter.
The Herald's revelation follows previous reports of over 20 individuals being banned from the migrant family shelter program due to inappropriate behavior. These individuals were subsequently referred to individual adult homeless shelters.
Migrant Surge Burdens Boston's Homeless System, Raising Safety Concerns
According to the EA program, a "serious incident" is defined as "serious misconduct, threatening behaviors, or actual harm involving or affecting an EA program, or any EA family members." The program's spokesperson has assured that the safety and well-being of families is a priority and that incidents are handled through collaboration with families, service providers, and relevant authorities.
However, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities has not yet responded to requests for further comment. The report comes amidst an escalating influx of migrants that are reportedly burdening the state's homeless shelter system.
Migrant Surge Burdens Boston's Homeless System, Raising Safety Concerns
In response to the growing crisis, Governor Maura Healey recently announced new restrictions, prioritizing Massachusetts families for services. She has also sent representatives to the Texas border to inform migrants about the limited availability of shelter in Massachusetts.
The influx of migrants has placed a significant strain on Democrat-run states and cities across the country, prompting multiple mayors to appeal to the Biden administration for increased federal funding and expedited work permits to help migrants secure employment and reduce their reliance on social services.
Migrant Surge Burdens Boston's Homeless System, Raising Safety Concerns
