Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey Expands $30,000 Rental Aid for Migrant Families
BOSTON — Massachusetts Democratic Gov. Maura Healey is providing qualifying migrant families with up to $30,000 in rental assistance over two years, shifting many from state-run shelters into private housing through the state’s HomeBASE program.
According to a syndicated Yahoo News report citing the Boston Herald, the program’s caseload has surged from 1,473 families in January 2023 to 7,767 in April 2025 — a more than 400% increase since Healey took office.
HomeBASE offers $15,000 per year in housing aid for eligible families, with some able to receive a third year of funding for an additional $15,000. State officials, however, have announced plans to pause that third-year option starting in July.
The initiative has drawn sharp criticism from opponents who say it prioritizes migrants over state residents, while supporters argue it reduces shelter overcrowding and provides struggling families with more stability.