Housing Families to Lead Operations of East Boston Family Shelter, Preserving a Longstanding Community Resource.
East Boston shelter will serve 17 families beginning November 1, 2026
EAST BOSTON, Mass. 11/2/2026) – Housing Families announced today that it opened a new family shelter in East Boston on November 1, 2026, preserving a longtime community resource while expanding access to safe, stable emergency shelter for families experiencing homelessness.
Located at the former Crossroads Family Shelter site, the new shelter will serve 17 families, providing emergency shelter and supportive services that help families secure permanent housing and achieve long-term stability.
Founded in 1985, Crossroads Family Shelter has served East Boston families for more than 40 years. When the previous provider notified the Archdiocese of Boston that it would no longer operate the shelter, community members reached out to Housing Families, recognizing the organization’s longstanding commitment to serving families in crisis.
“From the moment we began conversations about this shelter, we experienced firsthand the incredible compassion, partnership, and commitment that define East Boston. When this shelter’s future became uncertain, community leaders, residents, and partners stepped forward because they understood how vital it is for families to have a safe place to turn during times of crisis. For more than forty years, this shelter has been an important part of the fabric of East Boston, and we are honored that the community entrusted Housing Families to continue that legacy. The overwhelming support we’ve received has made this transition possible and reflects the remarkable strength, resilience, and generosity of a community that understands when families have stability, the entire community is stronger,” said Laura Rosi, CEO of Housing Families.
State Representative Adrian Madaro, who represents East Boston, welcomed the announcement.
“People in our community were heartbroken when we thought we might lose this shelter. Thanks to Housing Families for stepping in to preserve it. This shelter is truly a gem in our community, and it is incredibly important that this vital resource remains here for the families who need it.”
The opening of the East Boston shelter marks Housing Families’ entry into Boston as the organization celebrates 40 years of helping families north of the city move from homelessness to stability through housing, support, and wellness services.
This milestone comes at an exciting time for Housing Families. Last month, the organization signed a Letter of Intent to pursue a union with Citizens Inn in Peabody, bringing together two organizations with a shared commitment to prevent family homelessness. The partnership will strengthen services and expand Housing Families’ reach across Greater Boston and the North Shore, enabling the organization to serve more families in need.
About Housing Families
For 40 years, Housing Families has provided housing and wellness services to individuals and families, expanding its reach in recent years to serve nearly 7,000 people annually. Housing Families provides homelessness prevention and legal services, emergency shelter, and permanent supportive housing for families and individuals. In addition to housing programs, Housing Families offers wellness services including food and grocery assistance, a therapeutic and academic out-of-school time program (EnrichEd), and clinical mental health services (CareCollective). Housing Families’ mission is to ensure housing stability to strengthen families, individuals, and communities.
Learn more at www.housingfamilies.org.
Media Contact: communications@housingfamilies.org
