(FixThisNation.com) – Community members are expressing strong concerns over a proposal to repurpose a former veterans’ shelter in the Boston area to house numerous migrants, as reported by the New York Post.
George Belmonte, a local from Massachusetts, voiced his dismay on social media regarding the decision to use the Chelsea Soldiers’ Home, traditionally dedicated to veterans, for managing the influx of immigrants. He emphasized the priority of addressing the needs of homeless veterans already present in the community, expressing support for aiding others but advocating for prioritizing local homeless veterans first.
Governor Maura Healey of Massachusetts, a Democrat, recently declared the intention to transform the historical Chelsea Soldiers’ Home into accommodations for 100 migrant families, including expectant mothers. This building was unoccupied and earmarked for demolition prior to this announcement.
Denise Levy, another resident of Massachusetts, shared her frustration about the migrants being accommodated at no cost at the facility, while veterans, who have served the country, are incurring expenses to reside there. She labeled the situation as “disgusting.”
The Chelsea Soldiers’ Home’s official website details the payment structure for veterans, indicating a daily charge of $30 with a $300 exemption from personal income for those needing nursing home care. Veterans not requiring such care are expected to contribute $10 daily, with the same exemption applied.
The closure of the Chelsea Soldiers’ Home in December followed the inauguration of a more extensive veterans’ facility at Powder Horn Hill. Dr. Jon Santiago, Secretary of Veterans Services, reassured in a statement to The Boston Herald that the establishment of the new migrant center would not adversely affect services for veterans, highlighting Massachusetts’ commitment to assisting both veterans and homeless families within the state.
Starting May 1, the Veterans Home at Chelsea is set to function as a “safety-net site” for migrants, who will need to demonstrate active efforts towards self-sufficiency, including seeking work permits, learning English, and pursuing permanent residence.
Currently, there are 240 families residing in such safety-net sites across the state, with another 7,500 families in emergency shelters. The challenge of the migrant situation in Massachusetts is underscored by the rapid filling of the state’s latest emergency shelter in Roxbury, Boston, which reached its 400-person capacity within a week last month.
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