The bill updates the Emergency Housing Assistance Program in accordance with recent legislative mandates, requiring a bi-weekly report that includes critical data on families in emergency assistance shelters, applications for shelter, and reasons for homelessness. The report will also track families unable to provide necessary verification during the application process and outline available support services, such as case management and health screenings. Financial data regarding expenditures and projected costs for the upcoming fiscal year will be included, with a goal to reduce the caseload to 4,000 families and eliminate hotel shelters by year-end. Additionally, the bill emphasizes efforts to secure federal support, including a revised 1115 waiver for potential reimbursements.
Furthermore, the bill allocates new funding for various school districts from fiscal years 2022 to 2025, with significant amounts designated for districts like Boston and Danvers. It outlines a structured financial plan to ensure schools receive adequate resources for educational programs and services. The bill also includes provisions for support services, such as shelter costs and educational aid, with specific legal language detailing the amounts allocated for these services. Overall, the bill aims to enhance community welfare and educational outcomes for vulnerable populations across the state.