US state of Massachusetts activates National Guard to assist migrant shelter hotels

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US state of Massachusetts activated up to 250 members of the National Guard on Thursday to provide basic services at emergency shelter hotels amid an influx of migrants.

"The administration is also launching Regional Rapid Response Teams to assist with overseeing shelter sites and serving as a direct contact to the administration to address any concerns," said Governor Maura Healey in an order.

Earlier this month, Healey declared a state of emergency due to a significant influx of migrant families in Massachusetts.

"Massachusetts is in a state of emergency, and we need all hands on deck to meet this moment and ensure families have access to safe shelter and basic services," she said.

Starting next week, each National Guard member will be assigned to a specific hotel shelter site. Their role will involve coordinating essential services like food, basic necessities, transportation and medical assistance provided by the site, external vendors, community groups and government agencies.

The Guard will also be responsible for escalating issues to newly created Regional Rapid Response Teams, said the governor.

Emergency shelters across the state are currently accommodating over 6,000 families, including children and pregnant women.