The bill outlines updates to the Emergency Housing Assistance Program, as mandated by Chapter 88 of the Acts of 2024 and Chapter 1 Section 10 of the Acts of 2025. Key data points as of October 16, 2025, indicate that there are currently 2,098 families supported across bridge and rapid shelter programs, with 127 families in these shelters. The report highlights the number of families applying for shelter, the verification process, and the various reasons for homelessness, including domestic violence and eviction. Additionally, it provides insights into the services offered to families on the EA contact list, such as case management, health screenings, and referrals to other services.

The bill also details the fiscal aspects of the EA program, including the total amount expended from the A&F reserve and the estimated costs for FY26, which appropriates $276.4 million for Emergency Assistance Family Shelters and Services. The report emphasizes the importance of maximizing federal reimbursements for EA program costs and notes that Massachusetts has collected $148 million in Federal Financial Participation since April 2024. The current funded capacity of the EA program is set to not exceed 4,000 families, in accordance with statutory requirements.