In La Porte County, the affordable housing crisis isn’t just a problem for those directly affected – it’s a challenge that impacts our entire community. At Homeward Bound Villages, we believe that solving this crisis is a shared responsibility, one that requires the collective effort of all community members. Today, we want to discuss why this issue matters to everyone and how our innovative cooperative approach to affordable housing is not only providing homes but also building and strengthening our community.
The Ripple Effect of Housing Insecurity
When our neighbors, family, friends, and fellow community members struggle to afford housing, the effects ripple throughout our entire community:
1. Local businesses suffer when residents have less disposable income. When monthly rent takes up the majority of income, this leaves fewer funds to spend in the community on the necessities, let alone on nonessential items.
2. Our community healthcare systems can be strained by delayed preventative care that often results in emergent care by the time medical care is sought out. Often, medical care is delayed due to the cost of service as housing costs are prioritized.
4. Overall, community well-being and cohesion are compromised when portions of the community lack housing equity and security.
These impacts touch all of us, regardless of our own housing situation. That’s why addressing the affordable housing crisis is a community responsibility. Homeward Bound Villages is proud to play a significant role in helping bring affordable housing to our community.
At Homeward Bound Villages, we’re introducing a cooperative housing model that goes beyond just providing affordable rental homes. Our approach is designed to build and strengthen our community in several ways:
1. Cooperative Community: Residents have a stake in their housing through a co-op board, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility through collective decision-making for the village.
2. Always Affordable: Our commitment is to ensure that our rental units remain forever affordable by acting as a land trust so that those who call our villages home may gain housing and financial security.
3. Shared Community Spaces: By sharing certain areas in the neighborhood, such as a community center and green spaces, our residents are encouraged to make connections within the neighborhood. Support networks are crucial for the health of any community.
This model doesn’t just house people – it empowers them and creates a strong, interconnected community.
How You Can Get Involved in Bringing Affordable Housing to La Porte County.
Solving the affordable housing crisis requires effort from all sectors of our community. Here’s how you can help:
1. Businesses: Consider partnering with us to support the construction of our first Village, Karwick Villages, in Michigan City.
2. Individuals: Volunteer your time, skills, or resources to support our projects.
3. Local Government: Work with us to streamline processes and create policies that support affordable housing initiatives.
4. Educators: Help raise awareness about housing insecurity and equity issues in the community.
5. Everyone: Advocate for affordable housing in your neighborhood and support initiatives that promote inclusive communities.
Whether you can contribute time, resources, skills or simply spread the word, every action counts. Together, we can create a La Porte County where everyone has access to safe, affordable housing and where our community grows stronger through cooperation and mutual support.
Together, let’s create a community that is created for all. Reach out to us today to learn how you can get involved in building a stronger, more affordable La Porte County for all.