State inspectors have yet to set foot in most of the hotels rented at taxpayer expense, failing to ensure that the hastily arranged accommodations meet basic health and safety standards. When they do, the results are often dismal.
Tracey Williams of Boston is one of many people experiencing homelessness in Massachusetts who saw their lives turn around after staying in a hotel-based shelter during the pandemic. Now some say this "non-congregate" form of shelter should become the standard, while others say the focus should be on creating permanent supportive housing.