Stable housing is like a vaccine for patients and families, according to practicing pediatrician and CHW principal investigator, Dr. Megan Sandel. She stated, “It keeps them healthy now and in the future. But the pharmacy is not fully stocked. We need investments to ensure everyone has access to the stable home vaccine.” And that is where Habitat for Humanity comes in. Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County can be that vaccination for families wanting to make serious changes in their lives forever.
According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, “Children’s Health Watch (CHW) found that unstable housing among families with children will cost the U.S. $111 billion in avoidable health and education expenditures over the next ten years.” To break it down, the U.S. health system will spend about $34.3 billion treating children and $76.8 treating mothers experiencing deteriorating mental and physical health conditions. The bottom line is that there is a direct correlation between unstable housing and health conditions and families need our help.
Habitat Bucks seeks to be that help by selling newly constructed or renovated homes to qualified families and individuals. Homeownership builds strength, stability and self-reliance in our community. We believe everyone deserves a decent place to live and an affordable mortgage helps homeowners save for the future, invest in education and explore new opportunities. In addition, sometimes a home once loved needs a hand up to restore it to health as well. Habitat Bucks partners with homeowners to make minor home repairs or modifications that preserve their home, making it safer and more accessible for everyone.
So, not only is Habitat Bucks helping families afford homes, we are helping families and individuals stay healthy while decreasing healthcare costs in the U.S. We are invested in our community and truly believe that a home is the stable foundation for everything else to blossom.
Submitted by Sara Donnelly, Foundations Community Partnership Summer Youth Corps