Some essential occupations are needed in every community. But unfortunately, many of these occupations don’t pay a high enough wage in order for those workers to live in the community in which they serve. That’s where the concept of “workforce housing” comes into play.
Workforce Housing Model Questions Answered
What is the workforce housing model?
The workforce housing model provides affordable housing to employees such as school bus drivers or custodians who may not be able to afford adequate housing in the very community in which they serve because of the gap between their income and the housing options available to them.
Without workforce housing, these employees are forced to either live far away from their place of work and spend precious dollars on transportation or spend an exorbitant percentage of their income on housing, which in turn depletes their resources for other vital things like food or insurance.
Why is workforce housing important?
It’s recommended that people spend no more than 30% of their income on housing. This limit allows for enough money to be spent on other essential things like healthcare, food, education, transportation, and more.
This 30% threshold is the standard that the government has been using for nearly 40 years. Anyone spending more than 30% of their income on housing is considered to be “cost burdened.” And anyone spending more than 50% is said to be “severely cost burdened.”
Even teachers, nurses, police officers, and firefighters can find themselves without affordable housing in the area in which they work. And no community could survive and thrive without such essential services.
How does the workforce housing model work?
In a workforce housing model like the one used at CASA, rent is based on household income, so no one pays more than he or she can afford. In some units, local housing subsidies can help keep rents affordable.
CASA’s tenants spend no more than 30% of their income on housing. This allows tenants to budget the rest of their money for essentials like medicine, emergencies, and providing for children. They are also given the opportunity to renew their lease each year so they can set down roots and become part of the community.
Get Involved in the Triangle
The workforce housing model depends on everyone’s help to work. Whether it’s by volunteering, donating, or advocating for our cause, there are many ways to help. Get involved today to help make your community a better place to live — for everyone.
