Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey declared a state of emergency on Tuesday (8) in response to the rising number of immigrants arriving in the state.
With Healey’s declaration comes an “urgent and formal appeal” to the federal government to help expedite work authorization for newly arrived immigrants.
About 5,600 families with children are living in state-funded facilities, Healey said. This represents an 80% increase compared to the previous year.
The demand for emergency shelter has increased even more in the past six months. In March, 68 families per day sought assistance at various shelters across the state. More than 100 families sought assistance in July, according to a letter Healey sent to Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas.
“They are here because the place they came from is too dangerous to stay. They are here because Massachusetts is and always will be a beacon of hope, compassion, humanity, and opportunity. They are here because, like any of us, they would do anything, endure any hardship, to protect and support the people they love, especially their children,” Healey said, speaking about the immigrants arriving in Massachusetts.
“The state is adding shelter units every week and spending $45 million on programs to help these families, but it will not be able to meet the demand unless ‘extraordinary measures’ are taken,” Healey wrote.
Healey’s emergency declaration allows her to call in National Guard members to help more quickly. It also allows the state to bypass regular bidding rules for vendors and contractors, enabling them to be hired more swiftly. Healey can now also formally appeal to President Biden for aid funds.
In a press conference on Tuesday morning, the governor repeatedly emphasized the importance of expediting work authorizations. Those coming to the state have a strong desire to work, and Massachusetts needs them due to the “significant” labor shortage, she said.
“The truth is our newcomers are eager to work. The last thing they want is to be dependent, and frankly, we could use their help right now,” Healey said.
While waiting for work authorization, which can take six months or more, immigrants are stuck in shelters with no legal means to support themselves and their families.
Private Fund
Healey also announced the creation of the Massachusetts Migrant Families Relief Fund, launched by the United Way of Massachusetts Bay and The Boston Foundation. The fund aims to quickly send financial assistance that will allow families to obtain essential items such as food, clothing, diapers, hygiene products, and transportation. The fund will also finance health screenings, translation services, and legal assistance.
Two major initial donations to the fund were announced: Eastern Bank pledged $100,000, while Blue Cross Blue Shield pledged $50,000, Healey said.
Source: Boston.com