Citizens Inn, founded in 1983 by Mary Jane Lee, has been a lifeline for families facing homelessness and food insecurity across the North Shore of Massachusetts. What began as one small shelter program, Citizens Inn Between, has grown into a comprehensive nonprofit with four programs spanning eight buildings, dedicated to addressing housing instability, recovery, and hunger relief.
Mary Jane Lee, moved by the struggles of a neighbor about to lose her home, mobilized her community to form Citizens for Adequate Housing, opening the first shelter in 1985. Today, Citizens Inn Between continues to provide emergency housing for families in need, though increasing housing costs often mean stays of six months to a year. Recognizing the impact of addiction on family stability, Citizens Inn established Citizens Inn Transition in 1990 to integrate recovery with shelter, helping families work toward lasting independence.
Beyond emergency support, Citizens Inn has expanded into affordable permanent housing through the Inn Homes program, providing stability for more than 15 families while offering homelessness prevention services to many others. In 2017, Citizens Inn merged with Haven from Hunger, strengthening its ability to combat food insecurity in Peabody, Salem, and Lynnfield with community meals and pantry services.
For nearly four decades, Citizens Inn has worked tirelessly to ensure that no family has to live on the streets, in cars, or in motels. By combining shelter, affordable housing, recovery programs, and hunger relief, Citizens Inn continues to transform lives and build stronger, healthier communities.