BOSTON, MA – Massachusetts is experiencing a growing crisis as morgues, hospitals, and funeral homes struggle to manage unclaimed bodies. Each year, individuals without family or financial resources pass away, leaving healthcare facilities and funeral homes to bear the responsibility of their final arrangements. However, limited state assistance has led to significant delays, with some remains left unburied for months.
The Black Tie Coalition (BTC), a Massachusetts-based nonprofit founded by funeral director Matt Mazzuchelli, is working to address this challenge. Through financial aid, advocacy, and direct intervention, BTC helps ensure that every individual receives a dignified burial.
“No one should be left behind in death,” said Mazzuchelli. “We are stepping in where additional resources are needed, working to provide support and advocate for policy solutions that will ease the burden on funeral homes and healthcare providers.”
The Scope of the Crisis
The state currently provides $1,100 per case for indigent burials—an amount that falls short of the $3,000 to $5,000 typically required for even basic funeral services. As a result:
Morgues face extended overcrowding, with some remains awaiting burial for over 100 days.
Funeral homes face financial challenges that limit their ability to assist indigent cases.
Hospitals must allocate additional resources to manage unclaimed remains.
Proposed Solutions: A Call for Legislative Action
To address these issues, BTC is advocating for:
Increased state burial assistance to align with actual costs.
Publicly funded cremation options to help reduce morgue congestion.
An emergency burial fund for hospitals.
Tax incentives for funeral homes that accept indigent cases.
Expanded public-private partnerships to provide sustainable long-term solutions.
Since 2024, BTC has raised over $17,000, using $16,400 to cover burial costs for those in need. However, without legislative reform, the challenges persist.
“We are committed to working alongside policymakers and community leaders to find practical, compassionate solutions,” Mazzuchelli added. “This is about human dignity, and we will continue advocating for change.”
About The Black Tie Coalition
The Black Tie Coalition (BTC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring dignified burials for unclaimed and indigent individuals in Massachusetts. Founded in 2024 by funeral director Matt Mazzuchelli, BTC provides financial assistance, advocates for policy reform, and collaborates with hospitals, funeral homes, and social service organizations to prevent unclaimed remains from being forgotten.
To support the cause or learn more, visit www.blacktiecoalition.org.
Media ContactCompany Name: The Black Tie CoalitionContact Person: Matt MazzuchelliEmail: Send EmailPhone: 774-573-2263Country: United StatesWebsite: https://www.blacktiema.org/
