A Way Forward
Hello friends,
Despite recent setbacks at the federal level criminalizing homelessness, Massachusetts still knows the solutions to our affordability crisis. The State’s Housing Bond Bill is close to passing and currently includes expansion of the Small Properties Acquisition Fund, a new allocation for community land trusts, and the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act, all of which can help struggling tenants now. The Bill as a whole has the potential to create up to 40,000 new units of housing.
In addition, the House recently passed a harm reduction bill that would mandate comprehensive insurance coverage for substance use disorder treatments and establish a formal licensure process for recovery coaches. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), 2023 saw a significant decrease in opioid-related overdose deaths, which they attribute to robust harm reduction strategies. At CLT, we see these results firsthand and commend the House for taking practical, evidence-based steps to conserve state resources and save lives.
No matter how many protections may be removed or fundamental human needs criminalized for our some of our most vulnerable residents, CLT will keep working to implement solutions that can make homelessness rare, brief, and nonrecurring.
Harm Reduction 101
We kicked off June with a resounding success as Sara Cannella, our Senior Harm Reduction Specialist, spearheaded an impactful training session on Overdose Education and Naloxone Distribution (OEND) for the dedicated members of staff at the Community Resource Initiative (CRI). This event was more than just a training; it was a community-building experience that brought together a diverse group of passionate professionals, all united by a common goal: saving lives.
The session was designed to be interactive and engaging, ensuring that every participant left with a deep understanding of how to prevent and respond to opioid overdoses. Sara Cannella’s expertise and approachable teaching style made the complex subject matter accessible and empowering for all. Participants were not just passive learners; they actively engaged in discussions, asked insightful questions, and practiced administering Naloxone (Narcan), the life-saving medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.
By the end of the session, the team was equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a tangible difference in their community. This essential training is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to create a safer and healthier environment for everyone. It’s a reminder that when we come together without judgment to help others, we can achieve remarkable things.
Community Justice
CLT also wrapped up our first round of Community Justice events in June. This series truly embodied the spirit of unity, learning, and support within our community. Yaniel Fleita, who was promoted from Medical Case Manager into our new role of Community Development and Recidivism Prevention Program Manager, led the outreach.
Over the past two months, Yaniel held an impressive array of events at various CLT sites. Each event featured engaging discussions on important topics, resources for those in need, and, of course, delicious food for everyone to enjoy. From creating and distributing engaging fliers to conducting personalized outreach, Yaniel ensured that every resident felt informed, welcomed, and encouraged to participate.
A special thank you to all the residents and community members who attended and contributed to the success of these events. Your participation was invaluable and we look forward to continuing to build a supportive and empowered community together.
| As always, we would also like to express our ongoing gratitude to CLT’s supporters, community partners, donors, and more who have helped us in big and small ways to house and support individuals experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity throughout Massachusetts. We hope our work continues to inspire you to support us. Join in the cause by donating to our general fund today! Your tax refundable gift goes a long way to help us provide the best support we can to Greater Boston’s most vulnerable families. |