WCVB Chronicle reporters visited the former Shattuck Hospital campus to speak with residents of the innovative cottage community developed onsite. Once residents of an encampment at Boston’s Mass and Cass intersection, these individuals now live in heated, secure cottages at the site. Commonwealth Care Alliance manages the first-of-its-kind community, which was built in partnership with the City of Boston and Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
“People can come here and get all the healthcare and mental health services they need,” said CCA President and CEO Chris Palmieri.
The services provided by CCA onsite include substance use disorder treatment. Lauren Easton, CCA Vice President of Integrative Program Development and Clinical Innovation, said many residents have agreed to engage in medication-assisted treatment while living in the cottages. The positive relationships residents form with CCA staff have helped them progress with their recovery, she said.
“We are meeting people where they, with whatever support we can give them,” said Easton.