Affordable Housing: Meeting Our Communities’ Needs focus of local data briefing

The Washington County Coalition for Children (WCCC) is hosting a local data briefing on Affordable Housing in the region on Wednesday, November 28 from 8:30 to 10 am at the Thundermist Health Center in Wakefield.
“Having a home is one of our most basic needs,” points out Susan Orban, WCCC Coordinator, yet, many struggle obtaining affordable housing in Washington County.”

Annette Bourne, HousingWorks RI, presents the latest housing data
Annette Bourne, Research & Policy Director for HousingWorks RI (HWRI) shared local data regarding current housing cost burdens, the most affordable communities to live in, as well as affordable housing as an important ‘social determinant of health.’
Annette brought a wealth of experience and perspective to the presentation. She oversees HWRI’s research program, including publication of their annual Housing Fact Book (released last month). Prior to her work at HWRI, Annette worked for RI Housing and Grow Smart RI. She has also held a variety of training, technical assistance, policy & research positions in RI, VT, and MA. She holds a B.A. in Political Science from Boston University & an A.L.M. with a Concentration in Government from the Harvard University Extension School.

Data presentation followed by panel and audience discussion
Bourne’s data was followed by a panel discussion and audience participation facilitated by Scott Mueller, Assistant Professor, Rhode Island College, School of Social Work.
Panelists included: James Comer, Executive Director of the Women’s Development Corporation and local Representative Teresa Tanzi from the RI General Assembly.

Click here for data presentation.