OUR PROGRAMS
Adult Family Shelter Programs
Family homelessness is at a crisis level in Massachusetts—the Commonwealth has
the 3rd highest rate of family homelessness in the country. In 2020 there were 3,096 families living in shelter (MA Coalition for the Homeless), which depending on family size, includes approximately 10,800 children.
St. Mary's Center manages two Adult Family Shelter programs in Dorchester and East Boston, supporting 150 families annually, providing congregate shelter and scatter site apartments allowing for flexibility based on family need. Working in partnership with the city and state, families experiencing homelessness are placed within 24 hours and immediately provided an individualized and integrated model of care.
A wide range of personal, social, and economic factors serve as obstacles for families in their struggle to overcome homelessness and poverty. 100% of St. Mary’s Center families have experienced trauma throughout their lives, leading to complex health and/or mental health issues.
Consistent with our mission, St. Mary's Center provides family-centered, wrap-around services across Adult Family Shelter programs focused on breaking down barriers to achieve rapid rehousing. With the goal of decreasing families’ length of stay, SMC has an average placement rate of 89% to permanent housing within 12 months.
Locations:
By the Numbers:
In 2022:
- 240 individuals served in Adult Family Shelter programs
- 145 Adult Family Shelter residents employed or enrolled in school
- 31 families moved to permanent housing
Today, I am standing on my own two feet. St. Mary’s Center keeps you going, keeps you pushing, keeps you wanting to work for whatever you want to accomplish in life.”
“Belinda,” former St. Mary’s Center resident