Massachusetts deploys National Guard to aid overwhelmed shelter system amidst immigrant crisis.
Gov. Maura Healey Orders National Guard to Assist in Immigrant Crisis
Gov. Maura Healey (D-MA) has taken decisive action to address the immigrant crisis in Massachusetts. In an effort to provide essential services at emergency shelter hotels, Healey has ordered 250 members of the state’s National Guard to assist.
Under Healey’s instruction, these units will play a crucial role in coordinating transportation, food, basic needs, and medical care for the 6,000 families and 20,000 individuals currently housed in emergency shelters. It is important to note that the majority of asylum seekers in Massachusetts are families, including pregnant women and children.
A State of Emergency
Healey declared a state of emergency over the crisis, recognizing the urgent need for assistance. Massachusetts simply does not have the financial or logistical capacity to respond to the growing number of individuals seeking shelter. In fact, the current population in state-funded shelters, hotels, dormitories, and other emergency facilities has increased by 80% compared to last year.
Healey has called on Washington, D.C. to provide support, emphasizing the strain that Massachusetts is facing. The activation of the National Guard is a temporary solution to ensure that every family in emergency shelter has their needs met, including access to food, transportation, medical care, and education.
Sanctuary States and Cities
Massachusetts joins the ranks of sanctuary states that have declared a state of emergency due to the immigrant crisis. New York City, which has experienced a significant influx of migrants, also faces similar challenges. Over 100,000 immigrants have entered the city since the spring of 2022.
Chicago and Washington, D.C. have also struggled to respond to the release of immigrants into their communities. These sanctuary zones have chosen not to cooperate with U.S. government immigration authorities.
Rapid Response Teams and Advocacy
In addition to the National Guard activation, Gov. Healey is launching regional rapid response teams to oversee shelter sites. These teams will serve as a direct link to Healey’s administration, which includes Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll (D-MA).
Lt. Gov. Driscoll emphasizes the necessity of the National Guard activation to ensure the safety and well-being of families in emergency shelter. While immediate needs are being addressed, the state continues to advocate for assistance from the federal government in the form of streamlined work authorizations and funding.
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