The bill outlines the establishment and operation of Temporary Respite Centers (TRCs) and Clinical and Safety Risk Assessment Sites (CSRAs) in Massachusetts, as part of the state's efforts to provide support for families in need. Key data points regarding the number of families and individuals placed in these centers, as well as their average length of stay, are included in the report. Notably, the average length of stay for individuals at TRCs and CSRAs is reported to be 84 days. The bill emphasizes the importance of matching families to appropriate sites based on their health and safety needs, and it details the various services provided at these centers, including shelter, case management, legal assistance, and referrals to additional support services.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the procurement of qualified vendors to operate and staff overflow emergency overnight shelter sites and CSRAs. The report highlights the ongoing efforts to connect families with case managers who assist in developing rehousing plans and accessing necessary services. The language inserted into the bill specifies the types of services offered at TRCs and CSRAs, as well as the operational hours for the centers in Chelsea, Lexington, and Norfolk, which are all available 24/7. The report serves as a comprehensive update on the state's initiatives to address family homelessness and provide essential support services.