BOSTON (WWLP) – Tears at the State House. Dozens of advocates and state lawmakers listened as homeless families shared stories of desperation. Elizabeth Crawford told 22News her family slept beneath a bridge before they could qualify for emergency shelter.
“You have to show documents that you’re living in the streets to be able to get housing for your kids, but the minute you show them that document the government comes in and swoops your kid away,” said Crawford.
The Emergency Assistance program provides shelter for families only after they have slept in a place not meant for human habitation.
The Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless said many families are forced to sleep in cars, bus stations and hospitals in order to meet those requirements. The advocacy group is calling for change.
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