Hospitality Homes Offers Homes for Families of Patients

Hospitality Homes needs your help.

The non-profit organization provides short-term housing in volunteer host homes for families of patients receiving medical care in the Boston area, 31 of which are in Brookline.

But the demand for more homes is at a high. “All of our phone lines are ringing for housing,” executive director and Brookline resident, Dr. Caryl Goodman said. “We’re currently having a shortage of housing and need volunteers with rooms lend.”

Last year, families came from 41 states and 18 countries for treatment in Boston area hospitals and needed a Hospitality Home. Since 1983, Hospitality Homes has served over 14,000 families. The variety of ailments and treatments as well as the extent of time needed isn’t taken into account. There is a suggested donation of $25 a night.

“Many families are coming from rural areas, so the Boston area can be overwhelming,” Goodman said. “We partner with all of the hospitals in the area, but the Longwood Medical Area is one of the biggest users. Especially Children’s Hospital.”

Brookline and Newton offer the most homes in the program. Host families need to have a safe, comfortable place to sleep and have to offer access to a bathroom. Hospitality Homes runs queries on the hosts and requires references on each family. 

Hosts are single professionals, families with young children, empty-nesters, widows and widowers and they live in all types of homes and apartments but they all share a special compassion and flexibility and willingness to open their homes and their hearts to families facing a major medical challenge.

“The nice things about this is that it is an opportunity for families to work together to help others. Makes a significant impact on all involved,” Goodman said. “Living in the Boston area, we are very spoiled because we have some of the best medical facilities, but many people aren’t that lucky to have access to this. Guests and hosts celebrate birthdays together and send each other Christmas cards. This starts life long relationships.”

If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering, see all the information on their website.