State-run shelters maxed out

Massachusetts state-run shelters are still maxed out at a 7,500 family limit months after Gov. Maura Healey unilaterally imposed it, according to state data.

Gov. Maura Healey’s administration has turned to a sweeping net of hotels, motels, and other buildings to house migrant and local homeless families with children amid an influx of new arrivals.

About half of the families in shelter are believed to be migrants from other countries while the other half are Massachusetts residents, state officials have said.

As of Friday:

• There were 7,530 families in shelter.

• There were 3,876 families in hotels and motels.

• There were 3,654 families living in traditional shelters.

• 2,733 families were living in hotels and motels with providers.

• Another 1,143 families were living in hotels and motels with National Guard.

The administration is also required to release a report on the shelter system every two weeks. The reports have shed light on the $932 million Massachusetts is expected to spend on shelters and associated services in fiscal year 2024 and the $915 million expected spend in fiscal year 2025.

Other details, accurate as of Feb. 22, from the most recent report include:

• There were 3,745 families who entered state-run shelters as migrants, refugees, or asylum seekers.

• There were 2,713 migrants, asylum seekers, or refugees in shelters who have work authorizations.

• The Healey administration has spent $395 million on the shelter system in fiscal year 2024.

• The shelter system is projected to run $224 million into the red.