At the core of our work there are two main housing programs that
address a diversity of needs. Homeownership and long-term rentals give
people the opportunity to obtain safe, clean, and affordable housing.
When families have reliable housing, it gives them a new sense of hope
for the future, and greatly strengthens the fabric of the community.
Home Ownership
The high percentage of deteriorated rental apartments in Westown
generates enormous tensions and perpetuates irresponsibility. Some
blocks have 70% or more of their housing units managed by absentee
landlords. Local ownership contributes much to our core economic
viability. Our 46 homesteads are intentionally located on adjacent
blocks for maximum impact and mutual support. We link up with local
lenders and neighborhood associations. “There’s no place like a home...
of your own!”
Coaching
We all need a friend in our corner at times for advice and
encouragement. Westown Jubilee Housing seeks to provide each homesteader
with a seasoned housing coach for the first year of ownership. They
give tips on weatherproofing, changing furnace filters, saving on
utility costs and soon become treasured friends. |