Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program Announces Staff Layoffs
BOSTON - The Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP) is laying off staff following significant cuts to federal funding, the institution confirmed Wednesday. The reductions will impact programs serving the city’s unhoused population,including the Stacy Kirkpatrick House,a respite and medical care facility.
The layoffs stem from a decrease in federal funding allocated to homeless services nationwide. BHCHP is responding by restructuring operations and winding down certain programs to ensure continued care for existing patients while navigating a challenging financial landscape. Affected employees will receive severance pay, extended health benefits, and career transition resources, according to Anik Conley-Doss, the Program’s director of human resources.
“We’re doing everything we can to treat the employees affected by these changes with respect and gratitude,” Conley-Doss said. “This has been tough for the entire organization, but we’re committed to navigating it as thoughtfully as possible. We’ve provided a grace period so staff can stay on until thier last day,and we’re winding down programs like the Stacy Kirkpatrick House carefully to ensure patients are discharged appropriately,and their care remains our top priority.”
BHCHP has been a critical provider of medical and support services to Boston’s homeless population for over three decades. The program operates a network of street outreach teams,shelters,and clinics,serving thousands of individuals annually. Federal funding is a vital component of BHCHP’s budget, supporting a wide range of services from primary care to behavioral health support. The recent cuts pose a significant challenge to the organization’s ability to meet the growing needs of the city’s unhoused community, particularly as winter approaches.
Sarah rahal can be reached at sarah.rahal@globe.com. Follow her on X @SarahRahal_ or Instagram @sarah.rahal.