Video: Baker-Polito Administration provides update on donations, emergency response plan for migrants sheltering at Joint Base Cape Cod

BARNSTABLE – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced an update regarding the shelter and humanitarian supports being provided at Joint Base Cape Cod for the approximately 50 migrants who arrived in Martha’s Vineyard this week. The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency continues to lead coordination efforts among state and local officials to ensure access to food, shelter and essential services for these men, women, and children. Governor Charlie Baker has officially activated up to 125 members of the Massachusetts National Guard as part of this relief effort.

On Friday, September 16, the Commonwealth offered the migrants a voluntary transition from the Martha’s Vineyard facility to JBCC. State officials provided transportation to individuals and families from the island to a temporary shelter on JBCC, where a broad range of services have been established to support urgent needs.

The dormitory-style space at JBCC allows organizers to create specific housing areas for families, who will remain together as a unit, women, and any person with specific needs including medical care. Dedicated space for these groups ensures their continued safety, security, and privacy.

MEMA continues to collaborate closely with state agencies and non-profit organizations to provide individuals and families with access to a variety of services that are presently underway, including:

-Clothing and hygiene kits
-Food & Drink
-Assessment of needs, including ongoing transportation needs
-Access to health care, mental health, and crisis counseling services
-Access and technical capabilities to ensure ongoing access to legal services
-Case Management for accessing temporary housing and educational services for children
-Bi-lingual staff and Interpreter services

In addition to MEMA, the response of state and local agencies includes the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, the Massachusetts National Guard, the Massachusetts State Police, Dukes County, and Barnstable County, as well as state, local and federal elected officials.

In regard to donations, the Administration states that at this time all immediate needs of shelter clients are being met though existing resources provided by state partners, and the voluntary organizations assisting in this temporary shelter operation. Unsolicited volunteers and donations cannot be accepted at Joint Base Cape Cod. Individuals and organizations looking to support emergency relief efforts like this should send an email to the Massachusetts Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters at [MAVOAD@gmail.com]MAVOAD@gmail.com.