This is a frequently asked question?

Thank you for enthusiastically offering to welcome a migrant family into your home. Your willingness to share your space and extend a helping hand during this critical time is a powerful act of compassion and solidarity, and we are deeply grateful for your support. Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about the program:

Why are host families needed at this time?

Earlier this year, significant changes to the Massachusetts Emergency Assistance (EA) program have eliminated presumptive eligibility for shelter placement. Under the new policy, families must now be deemed fully eligible before they can be placed in a shelter or even added to the state’s contact list. This means applicants must complete all required documentation and verification, including proof of residency, before receiving any assistance. For many families, especially newly arrived immigrants or those in crisis, this presents a serious barrier. Those who do not qualify for temporary verification waivers are left without a safe place to stay while their applications are being reviewed, a process that can take days or even weeks. That’s where the Host Family Program becomes essential. Host families offer a safe, welcoming place to stay, whether for a night, a few days, a week, or longer, providing critical support and stability during a time of uncertainty for unhoused families. To learn more about the Emergency Assistance (EA) family shelter, please see here and for the EA family shelter contact list, please see here.

Where are the families from, and how long have they been here?

Most families arriving in Massachusetts are coming from Haiti or from countries in Central and South America, including Venezuela, Nicaragua, Colombia, and Brazil. Recently, we have also seen an increase in arrivals from the Dominican Republic. Nearly all of the families we place with host households are newcomers with no reliable connections in Massachusetts.

Why did they come to the U.S.?

Families arrive in the United States for many reasons, but most are escaping lives marked by fear, hardship, and uncertainty. Some flee violence, whether in their streets, institutions, or economies. Others have lost everything to natural disasters, endured chronic hunger, or left in search of medical treatment. Many come simply to be reunited with family, hoping to rebuild what was torn apart. No matter the path that led them here, we ask that you meet each family with deep compassion. Leaving behind home, language, community, and cultural traditions is never easy, and the journey itself is often filled with risk, grief, and unknowns. Understand that for many, telling their story may feel unsafe, painful, or simply too soon. Thus, approach each family with gentleness and respect. Your empathy may be one of the first moments of peace they’ve known in a long time.

After I decide to host, what are the next steps?

a. Submit the Host Interest Form

Once you’re ready to move forward, please complete our secure Host Interest Form. This form will add you to our list of prospective hosts and collect important details such as how many people you can accommodate and for how long. As part of our required background check, you’ll be asked to provide your date of birth and the last six digits of your Social Security Number (SSN). Rest assured, your information is kept confidential and secure.

b. Phone Conversation

After receiving your form, we’ll schedule a phone call to confirm the details of your hosting availability and home capacity. This is also a great opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about the process.

c. Background and Reference Checks

We are required to complete a background check (CORI) for each adult in your household. For this, we’ll need the full name, date of birth, and last six digits of the SSN for each adult. Additionally, we ask for the contact information of a non-family reference who knows the primary applicant well.

d. Approval and Standby Status

Once approved, you’ll be added to our standby list along with your available dates and hosting capacity. We’ll keep in touch with you by email, text, or phone as hosting needs that match your availability arise.

5. Placement Notification

If a family is to be placed with you, we’ll call you with as much advance notice as possible, though in many cases, this may be a very short notice. We will always coordinate with you to find the most convenient arrival time for the family.

What is expected of me as a host?

Host families are expected to provide a warm, welcoming, and respectful environment for guest families. This includes greeting them kindly, helping them settle in, offering food or refreshments, and ensuring access to essentials like bathrooms, internet, and a place to rest. Hosts should clearly explain how to use household systems, share their schedule and contact information, and gently communicate any house rules. Privacy should be respected, and guests should be made to feel comfortable using the kitchen and exploring nearby areas once they’re ready. Below is an expanded set of expectations:

a) Create a warm and comfortable environment

The most important thing you can do is make the family feel welcome and at ease. Greet them warmly, introduce yourself, and try to learn their names. While language differences can be challenging, your kindness and hospitality will mean a great deal, especially since they are likely to be tired and in need of rest.

b) Help them settle in

Show them where to place their coats, shoes, and luggage. Let them know which room(s) are theirs to use. Many families have spent days in transit or sleeping in public spaces, so rest and privacy will likely be their top priorities

c) Offer food and refreshments

Families often arrive in the evening. Though not obligated, having a simple meal or snack prepared can be a great comfort (see food suggestions below). However, be aware that they may have already eaten or brought food with them; simply ask what they need.

d) Show bathroom essentials

Point out where the bathroom is, and show them how to use the faucets for hot and cold water. Let them know where to find towels, soap, shampoo, and other personal hygiene items.

e) Provide internet access

Clearly write down your Wi-Fi name and password and place it somewhere visible. Most families use smartphones and communicate via WhatsApp, so internet access will be important.

f) Introduce the kitchen (When they’re ready)

After the family has had time to rest, possibly the next day, give them a tour of your kitchen. Show them where to find cookware, dishes, utensils, and staple food items like rice and pasta. Let them know they’re welcome to cook and which food items are available for their use.

g) Explain household systems

Demonstrate how to use appliances such as the stove and dishwasher. Let them know where to place trash and recycling, and if you have specific instructions for disposing of items like dirty diapers, please explain clearly.

h) Share your schedule and emergency contact information

It’s completely fine to leave the house while hosting. Let the family know your general schedule and how to contact you in case of an emergency while you’re away.

i) Show nearby places for walks or play

If there are parks, playgrounds, or other walkable destinations nearby, try to point these out within the first day or two. Giving them the ability to go somewhere pleasant on their own can be a meaningful gift of freedom and normalcy.

j) Set expectations around visitors and communication

Let the family know your preferences regarding their comings and goings, for example, whether you’d like to be informed when they leave or return. In general, we recommend that guest families do not have outside visitors during their stay; please communicate this gently but clearly.

k) Respect their need for privacy

If the family prefers to spend most of their time in their room, even if it’s small or crowded, it may be because they’ve gone without privacy for a long time. Allow them that space if they seem to need it.

What is expected of my guests during their stay?

During their stay, guest families are expected to:

a) Be courteous to their hosts, respect their property, and follow their rules at all times.

b) Limit themselves to the space provided.

c) Not smoke or vape in homes or vehicles without permission.

d) Pay for their own groceries and all other personal expenses.

e) Prepare their own meals unless otherwise offered by the host.

f) Take full responsibility for their children.

g) Supervise their children both indoors and outdoors.

h) Clean up after using the bathroom or kitchen.

i) Keep all food, cooked or uncooked, out of the bedroom.

j) Ask permission before using the television, radio, laundry machines, or other appliances.

k) Wear seat belts and use appropriate car seats when riding in the host’s vehicle.

l) Keep noise to a minimum and follow the host’s routines to help ensure they can work and get adequate sleep.

Will I be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses while hosting a family?

Although the Host Family Program is supported by the Office for Refugees and Immigrants (ORI), it is not a state-funded initiative. As a result, available resources are very limited. There will be no reimbursement for any out-of-pocket expenses incurred through participation in this program. Host families are not expected to cover any costs on behalf of their guests. However, they are welcome to offer financial support in any way they feel comfortable. Before placing a family with a host, we ensure the guests are enrolled in public assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC), and that they have an EBT card to access these benefits for their basic needs. In cases where a guest family has not yet been approved for these benefits, we will have a clear conversation with the host family beforehand. Placement will only occur if the host is comfortable providing support during the interim. Under no circumstances will a host family be required or obligated to provide financial assistance.

How will the family be transported to and from my home?

The IFSI Family Welcome Center will provide transportation to and from the host family’s residence via Uber and/or taxi. In addition, a monthly bus pass will be provided to the guest family. Guest families are expected to cover their own transportation costs for essential appointments, including but not limited to medical visits, court or immigration hearings, and visits to the DTA or HLC. When a clear need arises, IFSI will make every effort to provide additional support to accommodate the guest family’s transportation needs during their stay.

What support can we expect from the State while we’re hosting?

Although the Host Family Program is supported by the Office for Refugees and Immigrants (ORI), IFSI will serve as your primary point of contact and will maintain regular communication with host families. For any questions or assistance, please reach out to IFSI’s contact person, Karl, at Karl@ifsi-usa.org. Guest families are also encouraged to work closely with both IFSI and HLC to ensure their Emergency Assistance (EA) applications are processed as quickly as possible. Host families are welcome to contact Abigail, the ORI Program Manager for the Host Family Program, at 857-283-1831 or abigail.c.pierrecharles@mass.gov. For after-hours emergency support, the ORI Duty Manager is available at 857-303-2543. In the event of a medical emergency, please call 911 immediately.

How will we communicate with the family?

Haitian families primarily speak Haitian Creole and often French, though not always. Many also speak Spanish and/or Portuguese. Families from Central and South America typically speak Spanish or Portuguese. While some individuals may have limited spoken English, they may be more comfortable writing in English. To help bridge communication gaps, we recommend using translation apps like Google Translate. Keep in mind that communication goes beyond words; gestures, facial expressions, visual cues, and demonstrations can be very effective. For individuals with limited spoken English, texting may also be a helpful alternative.

What kinds of food should I have on hand?

As mentioned earlier, host families are not required to provide food for their guests. However, if you choose to offer meals or groceries as a gesture of hospitality, the following guidelines may be helpful:

a) Basic staples that families can cook for themselves are especially appreciated. Consider providing items such as white rice, spaghetti, dried beans (various types), eggs, chicken, and bread. Many Haitian families enjoy cooking with bouillon cubes (chicken or beef) for added flavor.

b) If your household is meat-free, feel free to communicate that respectfully to the family and offer only the items you’re comfortable keeping in your home.

c) Fresh produce is always welcome, both for cooking and eating raw. Useful items include green and red bell peppers, onions, garlic, cucumbers, cabbage, and fruits like bananas, grapes, oranges, and apples.

d) Since most families include young children, kid-friendly foods such as juice, milk, crackers, peanut butter, hot dogs, and fresh fruit are particularly helpful.

e) If you choose to prepare a meal in advance for the family’s arrival, keep it simple and mildly seasoned. Good options include roast chicken with rice or potatoes, a basic soup or stew with bread, or a pan of macaroni and cheese or another pasta dish.

Will children need any special food or supplies?

a) The Family Welcome Center will offer families an initial supply of diapers, wipes, and formula for young children.

b) If your family or a guest family has children between the ages of 3 and 10, they might enjoy receiving crayons and a coloring book. If you’re able to provide these items, it would be greatly appreciated!

Should I child-proof my home?

While it is expected that the host family’s home be clean, in good repair, and meet the minimum standards for safe and suitable temporary housing, especially for families with young children, we also suggest the following recommendations:

a) Since young children will often be staying with you, we recommend taking a few basic steps to child-proof your home: secure cabinets, cover electrical outlets, and ensure that any fragile items or harmful substances are out of reach.

b) Please note that you are not expected to alter your daily routine or completely reorganize your home. Ultimately, the responsibility for their children's safety rests with the guest family.

What kinds of benefits are our guests able to receive?

The state of Massachusetts operates its shelter system through the Emergency Assistance (EA) program, which is managed by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC). Eligibility for placement in state emergency shelters is limited to families with children and/or pregnant women. Eligible families may also receive medical coverage through MassHealth, food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and cash assistance through Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC). In most cases, families placed with volunteer hosts will have already completed the necessary paperwork for the benefits for which they qualify, and many will have begun receiving this support.

Can families use my address to apply for workers' permits, State benefits, or asylum?

We strongly advise host families NOT to use their home address for any applications related to work permits, state benefits, immigration documentation, or similar matters. Please remember that you are hosting the family as personal guests, and your residence is considered temporary accommodation for a short-term visit. In most cases, social services agencies already have the families’ contact information on file and will reach out to them directly to provide any necessary assistance. Please also note that school-age children will be enrolled in schools located in the municipality where the family is eventually placed in a shelter.

My guests are very eager to work. Is there any way I can help them find a job?

If one or more of the adults you are hosting has valid work authorization, encourage them to connect with a local MassHire Career Center. These centers offer free training and educational opportunities to help individuals enhance their skills and build or update their résumé. We strongly recommend visiting a center in person. Locations can be found by city through this directory. Please note that many job training and placement programs require at least a basic level of English proficiency. Encourage them to speak with someone in the Workforce Development department at IFSI, where they can enroll in English language classes and other courses such as Home Health Aide (HHA), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), computer literacy, résumé workshops, and more, helping them prepare to enter the workforce. You are welcome to leverage your personal and professional networks to help connect any guests with valid work authorization to legitimate employers who may be hiring. Many businesses are actively seeking dependable workers, and a referral from someone within their network can go a long way in opening doors. If you know of job openings that align with your guest’s skills or experience, making an introduction or sharing those opportunities can be incredibly impactful. Your support in this way not only helps your guest take meaningful steps toward self-sufficiency, but also contributes to their long-term integration and success in the community.

What comes next for the family, once they leave my home?

Ideally, when a guest family leaves your home, they will either be placed with a new host or transitioned into a shelter, either through the Rapid Shelter Track or the Bridge Shelter Track. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. While we strive to ensure that all unhoused families awaiting Emergency Assistance (EA) approval have a safe place to stay, some may end up sleeping in public spaces such as hospitals, train stations, or airports.

a) If we are able to find them another host, they will be transferred there while their case is under review.

b) Families placed in the Rapid Shelter Track have up to 30 days to secure stable, permanent housing, often with the support of HomeBASE funding. They receive high-intensity support services, including assistance with job placement, work authorizations, and housing searches.

c) Families in the Bridge Shelter Track have up to six months, often with the possibility of extensions, to find stable housing, typically also supported by HomeBASE. This track is designed for those facing more complex challenges and allows more time for stabilization. In many cases, these families return to IFSI, where we connect them with realtors and small landlords, often immigrants themselves, who are willing to take a chance on families lacking credit history, employment, or sufficient income.

d) If a family’s EA application is denied and they are ineligible to reapply, they may seek

placement in one of the many non-EA independent shelters operating across the state or

pursue affordable housing options, such as renting a room or entering a co-living

arrangement. In such cases, RAFT funding is often available to help cover move-in

expenses, including first and last month’s rent and the security deposit.

What if things aren’t working out?

We are deeply grateful for your support of the Host Family Program. Our goal is to ensure this

experience is positive and comfortable for everyone involved, especially our host families.

While we do our best to thoughtfully match guest families with suitable hosts, we understand

that sometimes things may not go as expected. At no point in the process should our host

families feel even slightly uncomfortable. Please remember that a host family may end the

hosting arrangement at any time, with or without cause. In such cases, IFSI will promptly

arrange transportation to return the guest family to the Family Welcome Center.