Our region prospers only when we all prosper, when there are enough good, safe homes that people can afford. We need advocates to speak out for and support the changes that will make this happen. The lack of affordable housing impacts all of us, not just the households that are struggling. 40% of our workforce is in the retail, accommodation, education, health, and food service industries. The median income for workers in these essential industries is $61,000 or less. Recent college graduates and other young professionals also have trouble finding housing they can afford. Our long-term economic success depends on the availability of safe, attainable housing for our workforce. Employers need workers close by, especially in jobs like health care and emergency services. By creating 'middle housing' such as house-scale buildings with multiple units compatible in scale and form with single-family units, we will bridge the gap for struggling families.
The efforts you see here were developed by The Home Team, part of the Chester County faith community, Westminster Presbyterian Church, in an effort to tackle the housing affordability crisis in Chester County, ensuring it remains a thriving community for all. If you would like to become a champion in your organization or if you have questions about the efforts at Westminster Presbyterian Church, please contact Burt Rothenberger at BFRothen@verizon.net or Ruth Simonson at RSimonson19@gmail.com. Click HERE if you want more about what other faith communities are doing on affordable housing.
Embracing change, one brick at a time - The Home Team is dedicated to revolutionizing residential stability through community-driven activism and education. Our vision is clear: By advocating for the development of missing 'middle housing' solutions, we aim to bridge the gap in affordable living options in Chester County and empower individuals to thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment.
With a growing gap between housing costs and wages, the dream of living in Chester County is slipping away for many families and individuals. A West Chester faith community, Westminster Presbyterian Church, has been at the forefront of advocacy and change, making significant strides toward addressing the housing affordability crisis.
Westminster Presbyterian Church's Home Team was formed in 2018 to work to end homelessness and promote affordable housing in our county. The Home Team explains the problem and its impact and has provided some resources to explore how we, as a community, can make housing attainable for all.