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WORCESTER, Mass. – Worcester’s Commissioner of Health and Human Services Dr. Mattie Castiel called homelessness a public health crisis across the state.
Castile said there are several efforts in the city to provide permanent housing options to people in need. She’s hopeful a new shelter opening at Blessed Sacrament Church in Worcester this weekend will provide enough space for people to go.
“One of our biggest issue is getting people to understand the problem is having people on the streets,” Castiel said. “Solving that problem is housing. We know that if we provide permanent supportive housing, 98% stay in housing and they do well. And that’s the goal, we provide the services after they get into housing. They are much safer in housing and the community is much safer when they’re in housing."
The 24/7 shelter at Blessed Sacrament can fit up to 60 people. It will open December 19 and run through the end of March.
