More evidence of foreclosures leading to homelessness in MA

A recent Boston Globe article provides added detail to a topic we've posted about several times on this blog - the rise in foreclosure and how it relates to the rise in homelessness. For some time those of us in the social service field have been sharing anecdotes about the connection between the growing foreclosure rate and increases in family homelessness. There have been a few small studies that have shown this link to be developing, and this article provides continued evidence.

According to the state's Department of Transitional Assistance (the Department currently providing much of the services available to homeless families) about 8% of families surveyed blamed their current homelessness on foreclosure. Just a year ago that figure was only 3%. This shows us that the problem is continuing, and that the whole housing market is being squeezed - for renters and homeowners. We need to continue to educate ourselves and our neighbors about options available for those who find themselves in trouble with their mortgage payments. A lot of changes have come during the Obama administration's short time in office. One of many ways to get started is by calling a national hotline number to receive foreclosure counseling. 1-888-995-HOPE can provide you with information and resources, or check out www.995hope.org.