Nature and Purpose
The Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless (MCH) seeks to end homelessness through policy advocacy and overall systemic change. Created by an association of grassroots organizations in 1981, MCH is the country's oldest statewide homeless advocacy organization. MCH's policy and organizing work involves the annual participation of over 700 volunteers, 235 faith communities, 1300 service providers and regional advocacy groups and hundreds of families and individuals who have experienced homelessness. MCH's projects directly address systemic issues contributing to the homelessness crisis. Our activities include advocating for affordable housing, ensuring access to shelter for homeless families, and providing homeless parents with the information to address short term needs and with the knowledge, skills and opportunity to take an active role in the public policy decisions which directly affect their lives.

Tasks 
The internship will consist of two components. Students will spend one shift at Grove Hall in Dorchester, the Boston welfare office that coordinates all shelter intake for Boston families. Students will speak with families in the waiting room and advocate on their behalf to ensure eligible famiies gain access to shelter. The second shift, which will take place in MCH’s office in the South Station area, will consist of responding to hotline calls from homeless families and individuals. Students will also have the opportunity to become involved in policy work and special events related to homelessness.

Time Requirements
PULSE students will work approximately 10-12 hours per week in a consistent schedule that has been worked out with their supervisor. Students must be able to work during weekday daytime hours from 8 am to 5 pm.

Supervision
Students will report to the shelter project coordinator. An intensive 10 hour training will be carried out during the first week of the internship. Students will then receive ongoing support as needed. A monthly meeting will be held between students and the supervisor.

Supervisor 
Reshma Shamasunder, Public Benefits Policy Coordinator
MCH director and assistant director for hotline support

Address
Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless
300 Congress St. 5th Floor
Boston MA 02210
Tel: (617) 423-9162
Fax: (617) 423-9166

Council Member: Keith Maley