Massachusetts exploring use of Joint Base Cape Cod to house immigrants flown into Martha’s Vineyard

Gov. Charlie Baker on Thursday said the state is mulling the use of Joint Base Cape Cod to provide housing and support to the nearly 50 immigrants flown to Martha’s Vineyard by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

“The Baker-Polito Administration is exploring setting up temporary shelter and humanitarian services at Joint Base Cape Cod and will share additional information as soon as it becomes available,” Baker said in a statement Thursday.

Residents of Martha’s Vineyard have mobilized over the past day to provide support for the migrants who arrived there unannounced Wednesday.

State Rep. Dylan Fernandes, who represents Martha’s Vineyard, said in a tweet, “Our island jumped into action putting together 50 beds, giving everyone a good meal, providing a play area for the children, making sure people have the healthcare and support they need. We are a community that comes together to support immigrants.”

“On behalf of the Commonwealth, I thank everyone on the ground who quickly came together to provide assistance,” Baker said.

DeSantis commented on the migrant relocation Thursday at a rowdy press conference.

“We are not a sanctuary state,” he said to cheers, “and it’s better to go to a sanctuary jurisdiction – and yes, we will help facilitate transport for you to be able to go to greener pastures.”

Baker said the state was moving quickly to provide resources for the newly arrived immigrants.

“The Commonwealth has many resources for assisting individuals that arrive in Massachusetts with varying immigration statuses and needs and is working with all partners involved to make sure those resources are available to the migrants that arrived last night,” he  said.

from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/qt7P2iK