Why Housing?
How and where we live shapes nearly every aspect of our lives. Safe, stable, and affordable housing is one of the most critical factors that directly affects our economic opportunity, educational outcomes, and our physical and mental health.

Consider this - In South Kingstown, a nurse finishes a long shift only to face an hour commute home because they can't afford to live near the hospital where they work. In Richmond, two retired teachers struggle to maintain the home they've lived in for decades—it's too big, too costly, but there are no affordable downsizing options nearby. And in Westerly, a single mother spends over half her paycheck on rent, forcing her to make impossible choices between buying groceries and paying bills.

The lack of affordable housing doesn't just affect individuals, it strains families, local businesses, and essential services. These aren't just individual struggles - they weaken our workforce, strain local services, and impact our entire community. The housing crisis being felt nationwide also deeply impacts our neighbors, friends, and family right here in Washington County, where:

These challenges impact everyone, from families and individuals experiencing homelessness to the workforce that powers our community, including healthcare workers, teachers, and first responders.

Our Housing Work Group is dedicated to addressing the challenges of affordable housing in Washington County. We work with residents and stakeholders to address the root causes of housing instability and inequity to develop sustainable, community-driven solutions that expand access to safe, affordable, and quality housing, because where we live is the foundation of our health and well-being.

Our Action Plan
While we can't solve the nationwide housing crisis, we are committed to making a meaningful impact locally through: