Baker to activate up to 125 members of the National Guard to assist with migrants

EDGARTOWN, Mass. (WLNE) — Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker announced on Friday that he will activate up to 125 members of the National Guard to assist with migrants that were dropped off on Martha’s Vineyard this week.

“The island communities are not equipped to provide sustainable accommodation, and state officials developed a plan to deliver a comprehensive humanitarian response,” said the governor’s office.

Baker said the nearly 50 migrants on Martha’s Vineyard will be taken to a new temporary shelter at Joint Base Cape Cod, which is designated as an emergency shelter by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.

“Our Administration has been working across state government to develop a plan to ensure these individuals will have access to the services they need going forward, and Joint Base Cape Cod is well equipped to serve these needs,” said Baker.

MEMA is working to coordinate efforts among state and local officials to ensure access to food, shelter and essential services for these men, women and children, according to the governor’s office.