Haitian and Central and South American immigrant families are enduring long, difficult journeys to the U.S. to escape persecution, violence, natural disasters, famine, and poverty. Many are coming to Massachusetts to join the state’s immigrant communities—M.A. has the 3rd largest Haitian population in the U.S.—and because the Commonwealth is known for its welcoming reputation, strong education and healthcare systems, and ample job opportunities.  

However, Massachusetts also has an affordable housing crisis – one that has forced many of these new families to begin their lives here in emergency shelters. Half of the 7,500 families in the state shelter system are newly arrived immigrant families with children.  

Since 2023, the International Institute of New England has been working with state and local leaders to provide immediate, critical support to families in shelter, and to identify and advocate for more long-term solutions.  

Case managers connect families to federal benefits, including cash assistance, access to food and healthcare, and school enrollment.  

Legal professionals, including an attorney and paralegals, are helping to apply for work authorization, so families can secure employment and move towards self-sufficiency. They are also helping individuals apply for asylum for a chance to stay in the U.S. permanently. 

IINE is currently securing funding to provide ESOL classes in the shelter system. The classes will help prepare non-native English speakers for daily life in the United States with a particular focus on entering the workforce. 

We are partnering with the state and fellow resettlement agencies to move families out of the shelter system and into safe, affordable, and permanent housing.