SUSTAINABLE FUTURES START
IN THE HOME
W
e all have a housing story. Perhaps you know a recent college graduate trying to find a place they can afford while they start their career. Perhaps you have aging parents who need to downsize and find quality, affordable housing. Perhaps you know someone who needs financial support in order to complete necessary home repairs. You may even know someone who is struggling to find a permanent place to live. We all have a housing story that is personal and connected to us, our families, and our communities. Understanding these stories helps shape how we use resources and respond to resident needs. Part of the City’s sustainability plan includes improving existing housing for all income levels, increasing community awareness on resident resources, and pursuing partnerships to increase services and resources for those in need, including those experiencing homelessness.
HOME REHABILITATION Housing opportunities and access remain one of the most foundational elements to residents’ quality of life. A stable and affordable home unlocks other social, emotional, and mental benefits. Cedar Rapids continues to leverage partnerships with local agencies to help revitalize existing neighborhoods. The Affordable Housing Network has rehabilitated more than 100 homes in the Wellington Heights neighborhood on the southeast side, part of their
18
OUR CR
Total Child program that utilizes local and state funding for neighborhood revitalization. Because of these property value improvements, access to tax increment financing became possible — which unlocked an additional $75,000 to continue home rehabilitation efforts in our core residential neighborhoods. |
AUGUST 2020
