Gardner House

The current affordable housing crisis for a growing number of refugees in the U.S. is well documented. Framingham is no exception. Housing Matters, an Urban Institute Initiative, explains that while the main goals of responding to the housing needs of refugees are largely humanitarian, evidence suggests that the integration of refugees in American cities can lead to high rates of labor participation, boost local economies, and serve as a catalyst for neighborhood revitalization. The city of Framingham has already experienced some of these positive outcomes. 

Temporary housing for immigrants and refugees in the form of a hospitality house will help further the creation of community and the integration of community in Framingham. By providing a safe, sensitive environment for those who have experienced trauma, temporary housing gives refugees the opportunity to heal and to learn. By encouraging local people to engage with immigrants and refugees in a variety of ways, a mutually enriching exchange takes place. They begin a path to citizenship with an increased understanding of the culture in which they find themselves. Volunteers from the surrounding community are provided with a purposeful opportunity to share their knowledge and increase their understanding of different cultural perspectives. The outcome of this interaction is increased empathy and tolerance of differences, added to increased confidence in the ability of all participants to overcome cultural barriers. 

The hospitality house for immigrant and refugee guests in Framingham is the first of its kind in the MetroWest area, setting a precedent for innovative solutions to the housing crisis affecting our community. 

With approximately 40% of the local population being immigrants, this initiative serves as both a model and an inspiration for addressing the pressing housing needs of vulnerable families.

Gardner House invites the support of various community and faith-based organizations throughout the MetroWest region to partner with us. This collaboration fosters meaningful connections, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to work towards a common goal. We aim to enhance community cohesion and promote understanding among the diverse populations that make up our community. Through this initiative, we not only provide essential housing support but also create a vibrant network of compassion and collaboration, empowering both residents and community members to engage meaningfully in the journey of integration and support.

Gardner House is more than shelter: it is a culturally responsive “hospitality home” that builds self-sufficiency, economic stability, and community integration. Residents receive:

• Free, fully furnished, time-limited housing that is safe and dignified.
• A live-in resident advocate who connects families to education, healthcare, legal aid, and jobs.
• On-site ESL and skill-building classes tailored to each parent’s goals.
• Mentoring from trained volunteers and interfaith partners that expands social networks.
• Individualized roadmaps to permanent housing and long-term income.

Comprehensive Support Services

At Gardner house, our dedicated staff provides essential guidance and support for 4 - 5 individual/family residents as they navigate the legal steps toward U.S. citizenship, including:

• Legal Assistance: Ensuring attendance at court dates and assisting with the completion of necessary paperwork.
• Language Development: Enhancing English language skills, facilitating successful employment and effective navigation of our systems. 
• Access to Healthcare: Facilitating access to medical facilities and transportation to maintain the mental and physical health of residents.
• Schedule Management: Keeping track of refugees’ schedules to ensure they meet important appointments. 

Childcare and Cultural Sensitivity

Recognizing the need for childcare, our staff actively recruits qualified volunteers to engage and care for children, allowing parents to focus on their transition. Additionally, we are sensitive to the nutritional needs and cultural traditions of the families we serve, ensuring that communal meals reflect their heritage.

Skills Development and Employment Opportunities

We encourage residents to explore their interests and existing skills, paving the way for potential employment opportunities in the broader community. This includes connecting them with the vibrant network of immigrant entrepreneurs whose businesses are located within walking distance of Gardner House. According to the Welcoming Ordinance Committee, approximately 85% of businesses in downtown Framingham are immigrant-owned, significantly contributing to the local economy.

Community Networking and Engagement

Our hospitality home serves as a hub for residents to meet, network, and interact safely with others from their own culture. We host focus groups and listening sessions to provide vital information on navigating transportation systems, overcoming language barriers, and accessing employment opportunities. This venue also introduces immigrants to local artists and encourage them to share their own talents.

Building Community Trust

Over the past two years, HCI has cultivated positive relationships through our ESL and Meal Programs, creating strong community ties. The goodwill generated is evident in the support from like-minded organizations, as well as in the establishment of a robust and growing community of students who actively participate in our programs and continue to return. Through these comprehensive initiatives, Gardner House aims to create a welcoming and supportive environment that empowers immigrant and refugee families to thrive in their new community.  

Gardner House taps into the area’s strong network of churches and community groups for volunteers, donated goods, and friendship. Businesses and organizations also help to “sponsor” a family, showing how our hospitality-house approach blends professional services with real community care. These partnerships bring people of different faiths together, build understanding, and turn goodwill into hands-on help. In return, residents feel less alone and the whole community grows closer.

Ways that you can help:

• Share a weekly dinner with families to build friendships.

• Give rides or guide residents to local services.

• Teach or assist in ESL and other skill classes.

• Tutor children and youth.

• Donate items families need (like the crib just given to our newest baby).

• Pitch in with small projects - plant a garden or paint a room.

• Share our website, social media pages, and events with your friends, family, and colleagues. 

• Invest in our mission with a financial gift.

Simple, caring actions like these make Gardner House a springboard for immigrant families and a bridge that connects all of us.