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Fewer Mass. Homeless Families In Hotels

Massachusetts housing officials say the number of homeless families living in motels is beginning to decline.

Massachusetts Undersecretary for Housing and Community Development Aaron Gornstein said Wednesday that the number has dropped by about 20 percent since a peak in December, when about 2,000 families were temporarily housed in dozens of hotels and motels — with approximately an equal number in family shelters.

Gornstein said part of the reason for the reduction is the ability to place more homeless families in congregate housing where they have their own room but share a kitchen and 24-hour supportive services.

Gov. Deval Patrick said nobody likes the hotel/motel solution, including the families.

Also Wednesday, Patrick announced $1 million in funding to connect homeless and low-income families with "suitable employers in jobs with long-term career pathways."

Earlier:

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