HomeBase Family Homeless Shelter Reform Initiative Update - July 18, 2011

HomeBase, the Commonwealth’s new program to respond to families who are eligible for emergency assistance because they are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness is expected to begin on August 1st, 2011. This is a program that changes the state’s response to homelessness – with housing instead of shelter. Between now and August 1st, families that face homelessness should contact the housing staff at their local Transitional Assistance Office for assistance. Beginning August 1st, HomeBase will be administered through the nine Housing Consumer Education Centers, the Lynn Housing Authority, and the Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance. Families can contact these agencies directly to learn how to receive assistance but must apply for assistance through the housing staff at local Transitional Assistance Offices. To learn more about where to apply, visit this link: http://app1.ocd.state.ma.us/fuel/Default.aspx