ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the efforts of one state that has identified homelessness as a major social welfare concern. It considers how Massachusetts has attempted to address the causes and effects of homelessness in as comprehensive a manner as possible. The chapter defines the problem and causes of homelessness, to suggest a comprehensive policy approach, and to discuss the implementation underway in Massachusetts. The approach is based on the belief that the problem of homelessness represents a multidimensional human services issue which touches many facets of the modern social welfare system. The stereotype of a homeless person has been the skid-row alcoholic or bag-lady living on the street. Homelessness has, too frequently, been a by-product of these mental health system problems. The Governor's Office of Human Resources has been charged by the Governor with the overall coordination of the homeless initiative.
