SECTION 8, NOT SO GREAT
From: The Boston Globe

Feb. 1- "Section 8 crunch reaches crisis: federal rent-subsidy program is overwhelmed by families in need". The next time a patient nearing homelessness asks you why you can’t find them housing, unfortunately all you may be able to do is refer them to this article (copies available).

"Obtaining a position on the [waiting list] is virtually impossible: essentially you have to be the victim of a natural disaster, domestic violence, hate crime, or be on the verge of eviction from a once rent-controlled unit. If you’re simply homeless or extremely poor you’re out of luck." Once you are on a waiting list "chances are if you live in Massachusetts you may have to wait years to receive assistance." The article details some of the factors contributing to the crunch and some of the advocacy efforts currently underway.

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