Massachusetts Releases Its First-Ever Comprehensive Housing Plan—What It Means for Older Adults

For the first time in state history, Massachusetts has released a comprehensive housing plan to address the growing housing crisis. The A Home for Everyone plan, announced by Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, outlines a bold vision to create more affordable and accessible housing across the Commonwealth.

While it’s encouraging to see a focused statewide effort, it’s also a stark reminder of how long overdue such a plan is. At Hearth, we’ve been advocating for sustainable solutions to end elder homelessness for decades, and we know that older adults are among the most vulnerable in our housing system. With a rising population of low-income seniors facing housing insecurity, this plan is a critical step—but there is much more work to be done.

What’s in the Plan?

The A Home for Everyone plan aims to:

  • Create 200,000 new housing units by 2030
  • Prioritize affordable housing development and preservation
  • Streamline permitting and zoning regulations
  • Support workforce housing and first-time homebuyers
  • Expand rental assistance programs for low-income residents
  • Address housing instability and homelessness through targeted initiatives

What Does This Mean for Older Adults?

The plan acknowledges the increasing demand for senior housing and the challenges older residents face in securing safe, stable, and affordable living arrangements. While there are promising aspects, including expanded rental assistance and incentives for senior housing development, continued advocacy is needed to ensure that older adults remain a top priority in these efforts.

At Hearth, we are committed to working alongside policymakers, housing advocates, and community leaders to ensure that Massachusetts’ first-ever housing plan delivers meaningful change for the seniors who need it most.

Learn More & Stay Engaged

We encourage you to read the full A Home for Everyone report and stay informed on how these initiatives will unfold.

We’ll continue to provide updates on how this plan impacts our mission and the work we do at Hearth. Stay tuned for more insights and opportunities to take action!