Introduction
As a right-to-shelter state, MA has the 5th lowest unsheltered rate in the nation.
Massachusetts has 12 local planning groups, called Continuums of Care, that collect homelessness information in separate databases known as Homelessness Management Information Systems (HMIS). Because data is collected individually by each Continuum, it is difficult to measure progress on addressing homelessness. As a solution to sharing data across geographic regions, the Rehousing Data Collective (RDC) was developed to aggregate this state-wide data to allow for better planning, program development, and ultimately the facilitation of quality care for homeless individuals. In addition, this information can guide policy and assess needs at the local, state, and national level. The metrics on this page are populated by the state-wide data collected by the RDC in order to give insight to the public about the state of homelessness in the Commonwealth. Data represented on this page includes:
• Adults and children
• Those who are sheltered in an emergency shelter, Safe Haven, or transitional housing
• Those who are unsheltered (on the streets, in cars, tents, and other places not meant for living)
Where is the need?
Continuums of Care (CoCs) are HUD-supported regional planning bodies that coordinate housing and services funding for people experiencing homelessness. In 2022, Massachusetts had 12 CoC’s.
Who is experiencing homelessness?
Massachusetts is one of two states in the country that provides the "right to shelter" for families. This means that if a person is a resident of the State and has a child, they cannot by law be left out in the cold. Because of this, Massachusetts has one of the lowest rates of unsheltered persons with children in the nation.
Additional Resources
| Date published: | July 13, 2022 |
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