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Safe Stable Sheltering & Housing Task Force
What
The United Nations acknowledges housing as a right, the basis of stability and security for an individual or family. Housing insecurity in Passaic County is a multifaceted issue that affects individuals and families in various ways. Passaic County residents face numerous challenges related to housing insecurity:
- Affordability: One of the primary issues is the high cost of housing. Rental prices and property values in Passaic County have been rising, outpacing income growth for many residents. This disparity makes it difficult for low-income and even middle-income families to find affordable housing options.
- Limited Availability: There is a shortage of affordable housing units relative to the demand. This scarcity contributes to long waitlists for subsidized housing programs and shelters. It also forces some residents to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions.
- Homelessness: Passaic County experiences homelessness among its population, including individuals, families, veterans, and seniors. Limited access to affordable housing, coupled with economic challenges, can lead to homelessness or unstable living situations.
Why
Safe, stable sheltering and housing requires collaboration between government agencies, private sector developers, non-profit organizations, and community groups. Policies and initiatives aimed at affordable housing, urban planning that considers housing needs, and support services for vulnerable populations all contribute to creating safe and stable housing in a community. In essence, supporting safe and stable housing is a matter of basic human rights and a strategic investment in the community’s well-being.
How
The Safe Stable Sheltering and Housing Task force’s efforts to address housing insecurity in Passaic County involve a combination of policy interventions, community support services, and advocacy for affordable housing initiatives. The task force is a multi-sector approach involving government and community-based organizations collaborating to provide housing assistance, eviction prevention programs, and support for homeless individuals, families, veterans, and seniors.
Co-chairs:
- Kevin Donahue, NJ 211
- Yonette Fredericks, Passaic County Department of Human Services