Families Find Shelter at Melnea Cass Recreation Center
For the first time, families, including migrant families who were previously staying overnight at Logan Airport, spent the night at the safety-net shelter at the Melnea Cass Recreation Center in Boston. This move has drawn both support and criticism from members of the Roxbury community.
Protests and Concerns
Residents gathered outside the center to protest the decision, expressing concerns that children in the area rely on the center for programming and will now be left without the resources they need. Protestors carried signs with messages such as “Why Roxbury? Try Wellesley!”, “Our City Our Spaces”, “Boston Is Full”, and “Our Kids Come Last – Why?”. They chanted “Shame on Wu” in reference to Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, who visited the facility along with Governor Maura Healey and other officials.
Addressing the Issue
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu acknowledged the need for action, stating that the city is already taking steps to address the impacts of the situation. State Sen. Liz Miranda emphasized the importance of not turning a blind eye to women, children, and families who resemble us and are forced to sleep outside or in an airport.
The Safety-Net Shelter
The safety-net shelter at the Melnea Cass Recreation Center opened its doors to families on Wednesday. It is one of several sites across the state providing temporary shelter for up to 100 families or 400 individuals awaiting long-term housing. Governor Maura Healey described the decision to use the recreation center as a shelter as a necessary measure.
The state and city authorities have been working together to relocate programming that would normally take place at the center. Efforts are being made to ensure that the young people affected by the move are enrolled in schools promptly and receive the necessary support, including social and emotional assistance.
Future Plans
The Melnea Cass Center is scheduled to cease operations as a shelter by May 31, allowing for the reopening of its pool. The state has committed to hiring additional staff and renovating the facility for future use.
According to state records, there are approximately 7,500 families in the state shelter system.
