WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SHELTERS

Generally, in the Massachusetts state system, there are two categories of shelters — family, where there are children involved, and individual shelters.

Family shelters are generally private rooms, available 24/7. Residents do not have to leave during the day. Individual shelters are nights only. This means that individuals must often be out on our streets throughout the day.

PROGRAMS VS. SHELTERS

It is important to realize that there is a difference between shelters and programs.

Programs generally provide 24-hour housing, often within a community setting. Programs are generally solving homelessness. Shelters are often perpetuating homelessness.

There are programs in Hyannis providing effective housing solutions right now.