“Now Is the Time to Leverage Community Partnerships and Increase Affordable Housing Options”
Economic development professionals talk a lot about creating jobs, strengthening neighborhoods and stimulating business. If an economy is to be built to sustain families across the nation, housing opportunities must be included as part of economic development. In 2023, the need for affordable housing will be even more urgent. The Houston Housing Authority, for example, opened its public housing waitlist for the first time in five years. Since Jan. 15, the agency has received more than 31,000 applications. This indicates a resounding and growing need for even more affordable housing.
With more people re-entering the workforce in-person and an increasing need for housing, the cost of living is becoming increasingly unaffordable. This is making it difficult for lower-income households to afford a place to live and is leading to an increase in homelessness.