Marshall County community members are gathering in February to launch a series of “Housing Matters” meetings. United Way will host community engagement sessions over lunch on both Thurs, February 8 and 22, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Marshall County Philanthropy Center, 2680 Miller Drive, Suite 120, Plymouth.
“Healthy, vibrant communities start at home. We believe that all Marshall County residents should have the opportunity to live in safe, affordable, good-quality housing,” said United Way Director Linda Yoder. Yoder noted that across Marshall County, 41% of families are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households. ALICE households earn more than the federal poverty level, but not enough to afford the basic household essentials like housing, childcare, food, transportation, and health care. “Affordable housing is a key issue for recruiting and keeping a vital workforce too.”
Michael Fortunato from Creative Insight Community Development will facilitate the meetings that are designed to orient all information around quick action steps. A Gap Analysis will consider the impacts of COVID-19 on housing stability, accessibility to existing resources, and identification of barriers preventing access to suitable housing options. This series of meetings is funded through a grant from the Indiana Department of Health to United Way of Marshall County.
Marshall County government leaders, nonprofit partners, community leaders, and volunteers engaged in housing industries or initiatives are encouraged to attend to learn more and participate in discussions to find community solutions.
To RSVP by Tuesday, February 6, go to https://bit.ly/MCHousingCommiteeEngagementSess. For more information, call United Way at 574.936.3366 or email mdepoy@marshallcountyuw.org.
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About the United Way of Marshall County
For over 60 years, the United Way of Marshall County has conducted annual fundraising campaigns in support of a strong nonprofit network, working together in an integrated way to address the most basic needs of education, health, and financial stability. The United Way has been the conduit for helping thousands of individuals, regardless of income level, contribute to a united community cause. The United Way of Marshall County remains committed to igniting the caring power of the human spirit. Together we create a stronger future for Marshall County. www.marshallcountyuw.org.
